International Relations (Glasgow-Nankai Joint Graduate School) MSc

University of Glasgow

The MSc in International Relations provides a rigorous grounding in the study of international relations, politics, and development. It will equip you with the knowledge of methodologies appropriate to such study.

Drawing on a range of different disciplinary approaches – from Political Science, International Relations, Area Studies, and Economic and Social History – the MSc in International Relations will survey the major contemporary challenges in world politics. In particular, it will focus on relations between state and non-state actors in the context of a globalized and interdependent world.

The programme will also provide research training that will encompass both research skills and methodologies.

The programme will conclude with a dissertation. This focused piece of work will permit you to develop your own ideas and demonstrate your capacity for original thought; while also building on the themes and issues covered in the full range of courses.

The programme provides you with:

• a comprehensive programme of study reflecting a broad picture of global politics in the 21st century.
• opportunities to reflect on theoretical and conceptual approaches to global politics
• knowledge of a range of relevant disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of world politics derived from the social sciences and humanities.

Graduate attributes

As a graduate you will possess the knowledge and understanding to:

• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of theoretical approaches and debates in Politics, International Relations, and Development Studies
• Demonstrate broad and informed knowledge of central issues in international politics such as the legitimacy of the world trading system, new ways of conceptualising security and challenges to traditional understandings of state sovereignty
• Conceptually locate rival approaches to studying international relations, politics, and development within a broader set of debates in social sciences and humanities
• Demonstrate understanding of different approaches to international relations as they bear on specific domains of interest.

Career prospects

Career opportunities include positions in higher education, government/foreign ministry, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations, think tanks; and further study at PhD level.