International Relations, MA

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Course Overview

The world is facing profound challenges, from conflict and climate change to new and unexpected global pressures. But alongside these difficulties, new ideas, collaborations, and opportunities for positive change are emerging. Understanding this fast‑moving landscape has never been more important.

Our MA International Relations helps you make sense of this complex global picture. You will explore the forces shaping international politics today, examine how global institutions respond to change, and consider how a more just and sustainable world might be built.

Across one, two, or three years of study, you will gain the conceptual tools, detailed case studies, and advanced research skills needed to analyse international issues with confidence. Whether you are looking to deepen your academic knowledge or prepare for a career in global policy, governance, or research, this programme is designed to equip you to engage thoughtfully and critically with the world around you.

Why International Relations at Swansea?

Ranked in the Top 250 in the World (QS 2025), International Relations at Swansea offers an inspiring place to study global politics and learn from leading researchers. Based on our beautiful Singleton Park campus, set in acres of parkland overlooking Swansea Bay, you will study in an inspiring location at the gateway to the Gower Peninsula. Our academics are leaders in their fields, researching some of the most pressing challenges shaping global politics today. Swansea has built an outstanding reputation for international affairs, with particular expertise in critical security studies and the systems of power that drive global change. This research directly informs our teaching, giving you access to innovative thinking throughout your degree.

Your studies will take you beyond the headlines. You’ll analyse the role of influential actors in global politics, explore an international system facing an uncertain twenty‑first century, and develop advanced methodological skills to investigate the issues shaping our interconnected world. You won’t just learn about global politics, you will learn how to interrogate it.

Swansea is home to a vibrant and welcoming postgraduate community where you’ll find active student societies in politics, international relations, and philosophy, including strong networks for international students, and multiple research groups you can get involved in. It’s a supportive environment where you can deepen your interests, build valuable connections, and enhance both your academic and professional development.

Your International Relations Experience

During your MA in International Relations, you will build a strong foundation in the key ideas, debates, and approaches that shape the study of global politics today. Whether you’re new to the subject or continuing from previous study, the early part of the programme is designed to give you the conceptual and analytical grounding you need to explore international relations with confidence.

As you progress, you’ll deepen your understanding of the global challenges influencing power, conflict, and cooperation, while also developing the research skills essential for advanced study in this field. You’ll learn how to analyse complex issues, evaluate competing perspectives, and apply different methods to investigate international questions.

International Relations Employment Opportunities

This programme is designed for students from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. You will develop a strong grounding in the theory and practice of international relations, alongside the research, analytical, presentation, critical‑thinking, and writing skills needed to evaluate and interpret global issues with confidence.

These skills are highly sought after across many sectors. Graduates of the MA in International Relations go on to have careers in areas such as:

  • UN and international organisations
  • Government and politics
  • Humanitarian organisations
  • Business, media and PR

 Whether you’re looking to advance an existing career or take your first steps into the world of global affairs, this programme provides a strong platform for your next move.

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

We consider all applicants on their own merits and welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.