Aberystwyth University, MA, International Relations

This course is available as a Research Training pathway or as a standard Taught Masters.

The Masters in International Relations is available as a taught Masters programme through two pathways, specialist or research training. The specialist pathway is the traditional Master’s degree which offers the opportunity to specialise on a particular area of the discipline. The research training/preparation pathway is designed to emphasise social science or humanities research training as well as specialist provision, and is likely to be of most interest to students who have already studied extensively in that particular subject area and who are planning to undertake a PhD following the completion of their Master’s course.

This degree will suit you:

• If you want to study international relations in a global context at Masters level
• If you wish to develop a critical appreciation of international relations
• If you wish to nurture a career in international diplomacy and work internationally
• If you desire formal recognition of skills highly sought-after by any postgraduate employer

Employability

Every course at Aberystwyth University is designed to enhance your vocational and general employability. Your Masters will place you in the jobs market as a highly-trained international relations specialist with a strength in depth of knowledge on vital subjects such as anarchy, sovereignty, power, peace, war, justice, ethics, realism, the global distribution of wealth and resources and trust in world politics. You will also graduate with a wealth of postgraduate-level skills which are transferable into any workplace. In addition, the prestige of masters from our department of International Relations wills open doors for you into workplaces in every industry.

Study Skills

Alongside the wealth of world-class critical expertise, you will master highly desirable skills in academic research, analysis, argument-formation, presentation and debate. You will also prove your abilities in reflection and self-improvement; you will be able to identify your academic weaknesses and remove them whilst building on your strengths.

Self-Motivation and discipline

Studying at Masters level requires discipline and self-motivation from every candidate. You will have access to the expertise and helpful guidance of departmental staff, but you are ultimately responsible for devising and completing a sustained programme of scholarly research in pursuit of your Master’s degree. This process of independent study at an extremely high level will strengthen your skills as an independent and self-sufficient worker, a trait prized by most employers.

Transferable Skills

The International relations Masters programme is designed to give you a range of transferable skills that you can apply in a variety of employment contexts.  Upon graduation, you will have proven your abilities in structuring and communicating ideas efficiently, writing for and speaking to a range of audiences, evaluating and organizing information, working effectively with others and working within time frames and to specific deadlines.