International Relations MA

Course overview

Explore the complexities of global politics – from systems, power structures and ideas driving international relations today.

This course will shape your understanding of international relations by examining a wide range of advanced theories, approaches, and stimulating debates in the complex field of international politics and relations. You'll analyse topics central to the functioning of the international system and explore contemporary and historical approaches, focusing on country-specific, regional and international processes.

The programme provides a deep understanding of how the international system functions beyond inter-state relationships, while developing specialised knowledge and strong research and analytical skills to examine complex global issues. You'll have the opportunity to develop expertise in a specialist area of interest to you by tailoring your studies with a choice of optional modules, while working with leaders in the field of international relations. You’ll also enhance your knowledge in international relations – and the complex and contradictory forces that shape the global agenda.

The course prepares students for an exciting career in international politics, with opportunities both in the UK and overseas within the charity sector, not-for-profit organisations, government, media and beyond.

“I was drawn to Leeds due to the nature of its courses. It offered me an ideal combination of self-study and taught lectures. Further, it presented an impressive array of electives that fit perfectly with me career goals.”

Disha Suresh, MA International Relations

Course details and modules

You’ll get the opportunity to explore today’s global challenges and examine international relations at an advanced level.

The modules studied will enable you to:

• gain a better understanding of the international system and how it interacts with states and societies worldwide
• link theoretical ideas to events in the international system, both historical and contemporary
• demonstrate that international politics is a struggle for ideas as well as power.

You’ll examine the relationship between the struggle for power and the struggle for ideas. You’ll investigate some of the ideological and philosophical movements that have shaped – and continue to shape – the international system, and you’ll consider a variety of competing positions with reference to events in the real world.

You’ll also be able to hone your research and writing skills in your compulsory dissertation – an independent piece of research on your chosen topic.

The wide-ranging list of optional modules means that you can explore a diverse range of related subjects of interest to you.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read International Relations MA in the course catalogue

Year 1 compulsory modules

Learning and teaching

We use a variety of teaching and learning methods to help you make the most of your studies. These will include lectures, lively seminar discussions, online learning and guided weekly readings. We expect you to participate fully in taught sessions and to study independently, developing your skills and preparing for lectures and seminars. You will also be able to benefit from an impressive range of research talks and seminars led by outside speakers or colleagues from within the department and University.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Within modules, assessment currently consists exclusively of assessed essays. At the end of your studies, a 12,000-word dissertation will allow you to pursue your own research interest under close supervision by one of our expert colleagues.

Applying

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) or a non-UK equivalent in a social science, humanities, or another related discipline (that includes a minimum of five social science and humanities modules).

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Politics and Society (6 weeks) and Language for Social Sciences and Arts: Politics and Society (10 weeks).

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional and our 10 week online pre-sessional. 

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

The ‘Apply’ link at the top of this page will take you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.

If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Documents and information you will need include:

• original or certified copies of your transcripts
• original or certified copies of your degree certificate
• original or certified copy of your IELTS/TOEFL results (if English is not your first language).

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2027

This course is taught by

School of Politics and International Studies

Contact us

School of Politics and International Studies

Email: pgpolis@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Fees

UK: £13,500 (Total)

International: £26,500 (Total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your Masters. Find out more and check your eligibility below: 

• Scholarships for International students 
• Scholarships and funding for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Career opportunities

Where this degree could take you

This course prepares you for a career in the international political arena. You’ll use your in-depth knowledge and skills in critical thinking, research and communication to find the right path for you.

Recent graduates have gone on to work in the UK and overseas for charities, not-for-profit organisations, government, media organisations and beyond. Organisations include the Ministry of Defence; Save the Children; House of Commons; Open Society Foundations and ACTED, amongst others. Many also pursue further study by commencing PhD research.

“The Civic Researcher module made me realise that I enjoy managing projects that tackle global issues, so I hope to set myself up with an NGO or business in a management position.”

Emma Briones, MA International Relations

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.

• Dedicated Employability Team – meet with our qualified careers consultants and specialist employability and placements officers, on hand to help you choose the right path and develop the skills to get there. They can support with CV and cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile building, mock interviews and navigating AI: get confident with tailored advice and techniques.
• Employability and networking events – get involved in a full range of events, including careers fairs and specialist industry talks with employers who are actively recruiting. You’ll also benefit from mentoring and a supportive careers community, helping you make connections, build your network, and shape your journey as a future professional.
• Skills training – we embed transferable skills training in all our programmes to support your transition to the workplace. Gain expertise employers value, such as communication, problem-solving and research and data analysis.
• MyCareer system —– access a dedicated portal where you can book careers appointments, view helpful resources and browse vacancies and events. Access digital tools, including LinkedIn support, video‑interview preparation, plus global job market and visa guidance. We also offer pre‑arrival support to help you prepare for career planning in the UK and make the most of your time with us.
• Exclusive opportunities – bring your enterprise to market with our award-winning business advice service, Spark. Apply for vacancies only available to our students. And hone your skills further with Leeds University Union, home to volunteering opportunities and over 300 clubs and societies.

Explore more about your employability opportunities at the University of Leeds.

Guaranteed industry experience  

The Global Industry Programme gives Masters students a great opportunity to gain real-world experience through live industry projects.  You’ll connect with leading companies worldwide to work on impactful, hands-on consultancy projects, enhancing your employability skills and enabling you to apply your theoretical knowledge to real business challenges.