Programme Overview

Our MA in International Relations aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the forces which shape global politics, combining both theory and real life, with the opportunity to do an internship which puts International Relations into practice.

The programme will enable you to tackle the big issues facing global decision-makers, from war to poverty, from security to the diplomatic practice, looking at the role of the global media in all of these topics.

It will help you prepare for further graduate study or for a career in the fascinating world of government, public administration, humanitarian aid work, diplomacy or policy formation. Our emphasis on the importance of research is invaluable for any future career, developing analytical skills and independence of thought.

Students may be invited to participate in visits to key international institutions including the International Criminal Court in The Hague, the EU headquarters in Brussels and an important Peace Studies institute in Norway.

From Machiavelli to Morgenthau, you will have the chance to explore how classical and contemporary scholars have helped define International Relations theories and concepts.

An innovative international research hub, Richmond’s Centre for the Study of the State, Power & Globalisation offers students the chance to conduct research alongside both the faculty and international experts. The University also supports a social enterprise which specialises in university education, Professors Without Borders, and students have often worked closely with this exciting initiative.

Curriculum Overview
We offer a rigorous curriculum encompassing theoretical and practical developments in the dynamic field of global politics, set in vibrant London. Our international mix of students helps graduates develop vital inter-personal and inter-cultural communication skills.

The programme examines a range of theories and approaches to international relations, questions of international political economy, and offers courses on international diplomatic practice, international law and institutions, studies of specific regions, international migration, media, and many others.

Optional Accredited Internship
Students are also offered an opportunity to pursue a research-linked internship, either in the UK or globally, for a minimum of five weeks over the summer semester.

Some of our recent graduates have done an internship with MPs in the House of Commons, in US Congress and with a range of international diplomatic missions near our Kensington campus.

We support students in securing an accredited internship and throughout its duration. It’s a great opportunity for students to put the knowledge and skills learned on the programme into practice. Students are assessed through a combination of regular updates, oral presentation and critical reflective writing on their experiences.
In an increasingly competitive graduate careers market, internships can provide the edge for students in securing their dream career.

Top 5 Reasons to study International Relations:

• Great work experience – opportunity to do an internship as part of your degree in locations such as the House of Commons and US Congress, enhancing your future career opportunities
• Chance to become part of Richmond’s international research community, developing close working relationship with faculty
• See International Relations in practice with the opportunity to visit international institutions like the EU Headquarters in Brussels and The Hague in the Netherlands
• Be awarded a US and UK accredited degree upon successful completion of the course that will be valuable to future employers
• Small class sizes, with an average of 10 people in every class, ensuring close contact with faculty

Modules

The structure of the MA gives you the flexibility to design your own degree. Taught modules are completed in the first two semesters of the degree. You will complete three ‘core’ modules and three ‘optional’ modules. A list of typical optional modules is provided below though these may change in a given semester. In your third semester you will complete your research dissertation and, should you choose to do one, also your internship.