Peking University

What you'll study

The MIR curriculum blends core theoretical courses, methodological training and specialised electives to prepare students for both policy and research careers. Core subjects typically include international relations theory, comparative foreign policy, international political economy and research methods (qualitative and quantitative). Students choose electives that reflect regional and thematic expertise, such as Chinese foreign policy, US–China relations, East Asian security, European politics, development and global governance, international law and human rights.

• Research methods and theory: courses on IR theory, statistics for social science, qualitative methods and design of social research.
• Contemporary Chinese foreign policy: policy analysis, China’s diplomacy, Belt and Road perspectives and domestic determinants of external behaviour.
• Security and strategic studies: conflict analysis, regional security architectures, non-traditional security and defence policy.
• International political economy: trade and finance, global economic governance and development policy.
• Area studies and languages: regional specialisations (East Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Americas) and advanced language options in English, Chinese and other relevant languages.
• Capstone requirement: a supervised dissertation or major research project demonstrating independent research capacity and analytical rigour.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in social sciences, humanities, law, economics or a related discipline, with strong academic records. Admissions assessors look for demonstrated interest in international affairs, analytical potential and clarity of research intent.

• Academic transcripts and degree certificate from the undergraduate programme.
• A personal statement or research proposal outlining academic interests and possible thesis topics.
• References (typically two) from academic or professional referees who can attest to the applicant’s suitability for graduate study.
• Curriculum vitae detailing relevant academic, work or language experience.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests include IELTS or TOEFL); proficiency in Chinese is an advantage but not always mandatory for all tracks.
• Some applicants may be invited to attend an interview or provide additional writing samples.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MIR programme pursue a wide range of careers in public, private and civil society sectors. Common career paths include diplomatic and consular services, roles in international organisations and multilateral institutions, policy analysis in government think‑tanks, research positions in academic institutions, and advisory or strategy roles in multinational corporations and consultancies. Alumni also move into journalism, non-governmental organisations, and continuing academic study at PhD level. The programme’s focus on China–global interactions is particularly valuable for roles requiring expertise on China’s foreign policy and regional diplomacy.

Why study at Peking University

Peking University offers the MIR within a leading research environment in Beijing, providing direct intellectual access to scholars of international relations, China studies and public policy. Students benefit from multidisciplinary resources across the university, including extensive libraries, research centres and frequent seminars with visiting policymakers and international experts. The programme’s location in China’s capital creates networking opportunities with government agencies, embassies, international organisations and think‑tanks. In addition, language training and campus exchange programmes enhance comparative perspective and employability for graduates pursuing international careers.