University of Leicester

What you'll study

This distance-learning MA combines core theoretical and methodological grounding with options that let you specialise in areas such as security, global political economy, regional politics and global governance. Teaching is delivered through a mixture of recorded lectures, live seminars, guided reading, online discussion forums and individual supervision for the research project.

• Core themes: contemporary theories of international relations; global order and governance; international security; research design and methods for international relations.
• Typical modules: Theories of International Relations; Research Methods in International Relations; Global Governance and Institutions; International Security in the Contemporary World; Global Political Economy; Regional Security and Foreign Policy Analysis.
• Optional modules: students choose from a range of options (subject to availability) that may include human rights and humanitarianism, migration and borders, environmental politics, diplomacy and negotiation, conflict resolution, or topics in EU/area studies.
• Dissertation: the programme concludes with a substantial supervised research dissertation that allows you to pursue an original project in a specialist topic within international relations and world order.
• Assessment: assessment methods combine essays, policy briefings, case-study analyses, online participation, presentations and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in a relevant subject (for example politics, international relations, history, law, economics or a social science) or an equivalent overseas qualification. Applicants with appropriate professional experience in international organisations, government, NGOs, journalism or related fields who do not meet the standard academic entry profile may also be considered.

All applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements for postgraduate study if their first language is not English; evidence of competence in written and spoken English is required to participate fully in online teaching and assessments. Applicants will be asked to provide academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining relevant experience and aims, and one or more references.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a wide range of careers in the public, private and third sectors. Typical destinations include roles in diplomacy and foreign services, international and regional organisations, policy analysis and public affairs, international development and humanitarian agencies, non-governmental organisations, journalism and media, security and risk analysis, and consultancy. The research training and dissertation also provide a foundation for those who wish to continue to doctoral study or an academic career.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a long-standing reputation in political science and international studies with staff who combine internationally recognised research with professional experience in policy and diplomacy. The distance-learning MA is designed to provide the same academic standards as on-campus provision while offering flexibility for working professionals and international students.

Students benefit from Leicester’s virtual learning environment, access to extensive online library resources and remote support from experienced supervisors and academic tutors. The programme is taught within a collegial department that encourages interdisciplinary approaches and links to research centres and networks, helping students to develop analytical skills, policy-relevant knowledge and a global professional network.