Global Security (MSc)

Program Overview

The Global Security MSc at the University of Glasgow provides an advanced understanding of contemporary security challenges, equipping graduates with theoretical and practical knowledge for careers in security-related fields. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary expertise, analytical skills, and decision-making abilities, preparing students to address global, national, and local security issues. With a diverse faculty and a vibrant intellectual environment, the program fosters networking opportunities and prepares graduates for successful careers in governmental organizations, NGOs, international organizations, and security and risk analysis companies.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Global Security MSc provides an advanced understanding of contemporary security challenges, from interstate conflict to terrorism, cyber warfare, and climate change. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary expertise to address critical issues in global, national, and local contexts.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the theoretical and practical knowledge to pursue careers in various fields, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, international organizations, research agencies, and security and risk analysis companies.
• Enhance graduate analytical skills and decision-making abilities, preparing them for successful careers in a constantly evolving security landscape.
• Foster networking opportunities and intellectual development within a diverse student body.

Overall Description:

The Global Security MSc offers a challenging and engaging curriculum designed to prepare graduates for successful careers addressing global security issues. Combining theoretical foundations with practical applications, the program equips students with valuable analytical tools, decision-making skills, and deep knowledge of contemporary security threats. The diverse faculty, specializing in a wide range of security-focused areas, provides students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of this complex field.

Outline:

The Global Security MSc program comprises of two core courses, a selection of optional courses, and a dissertation project:

Core Courses:

• International Security and Strategic Studies: Delve into the complexities of interstate conflict, focusing on theoretical frameworks, historical cases, and contemporary issues.
• Research Design or Qualitative Research Methods: Acquire expertise in conducting rigorous research, mastering quantitative and qualitative research methods relevant to security studies.

Optional Courses (select four):

• Conflict Analysis: Analyze the causes, dynamics, and potential solutions to various forms of contemporary conflict, enhancing understanding and resolution strategies.
• Political Economy of Conflict: Explore the intricate relationship between economics, politics, and conflict, gaining insight into the economic root causes of conflict and their implications for conflict resolution.
• Strategy, Defence and International Relations: Investigate the evolving field of national and international defence, examining strategic planning, military capabilities, and their roles in international relations.
• Media and Conflict in Divided Societies: Understand the complex role of media in conflict zones, analyzing its influence on conflict dynamics, social media's impact, and media's use in peacebuilding processes.
• European and International Security Strategies: Study the development and implementation of security strategies within Europe and broader international contexts, examining diverse approaches to addressing contemporary threats.
• Global Migrations: Histories, Structures, Experiences: Analyze the history, present-day realities, and evolving trends of global migration phenomena, focusing on drivers, impacts, and policy responses.
• Humanitarian Intervention: Civilian or Sovereignty: Examine ethical, political, and legal aspects of humanitarian intervention, delving into justifications, limitations, and consequences of such endeavors.
• International Relations of the Middle East: Investigate historical and contemporary dynamics shaping the complex region of the Middle East, analyzing its international relations within a broader global context.
• Crime and Corruption in the Former Soviet Union: Examine various forms of organized crime and corruption affecting the post-Soviet region, exploring their root causes and implications for regional security and development.
• Russia, China, and International Politics of Eurasia: Analyze the geopolitical influence of Russia and China across Eurasia, focusing on their strategic interactions, regional implications, and involvement in major power politics within the region.
• De Facto States in the Post-Soviet Space: Examine various self-proclaimed or unrecognized political entities existing within the former Soviet Union, exploring their political and legal status, motivations, and potential implications for stability in the region.
• Contested States: The Caucasus Since 1991: Study historical and contemporary political conflicts and unresolved territorial claims within the Caucasus region, focusing on ongoing tensions and diplomatic efforts towards their resolution.
• Statehood and Nationality in Russia, Central and Eastern Europe: Analyze complex political issues related to nationality, statehood, and legal status of diverse populations within Russia and central and eastern European countries.
• The Global Criminal Economy: Gain comprehensive understanding of the global criminal economy, its structure, actors, operations, and impact on different regions, exploring strategies to counter transnational organized crime.
• Media, War and Security: Explore the intricate relationship between media, war, and security, examining diverse forms of communication during armed conflict, their influence on conflict dynamics, and implications for promoting peace and security.
• Qualitative Approaches to the Study of Political Violence: Develop expertise in conducting qualitative research on political violence, mastering various methodologies and approaches applicable to the in-depth study of this complex phenomenon.
• The American Way of War: Investigate historical and contemporary aspects of the United States' approach to conducting war, examining strategic doctrines, technological advancements, and their influence on global security dynamics.

A combination of assessments will be utilized throughout the curriculum, including:

• Coursework: Essays, reports, presentations, and in-class participation
• Examinations: Written and oral examinations
• Dissertation: Independent research project on a chosen security-related topic

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The Global Security MSc utilizes a diverse range of interactive teaching methods to enhance student engagement and understanding:
• Lectures by leading academics and practitioners within the field.
• Seminars and group discussions for in-depth analysis and exchange of diverse perspectives.
• Individual tutorials for personalized feedback and guidance in research and development of analytical skills.
• Workshops with guest speakers from leading international organizations, NGOs, and research institutions.
• Simulation exercises for experiential learning within realistic security scenarios.

Faculty:

• Program faculty comprises experienced academics with proven expertise in their research areas, including specialists in:
• International Relations Theory
• Strategic Studies
• Conflict Analysis
• Security and Defence Studies
• Peacebuilding and Development
• Humanitarian Intervention
• Global Governance.

Uniqueness:

• The Global Security MSc distinguishes itself through a multi-faceted approach and enriching learning experience:
• Master classes delivered by renowned academics and high-profile professionals in the security field.
• Career-focused workshops with employability teams, enhancing career development and job hunting skills.
• Experiential learning through study trips, allowing first-hand exposure to decision-making processes and potential job opportunities at prominent international institutions.
• Participation in interactive simulations of security scenarios, enhancing understanding of crisis management and decision-making processes.
• Networking with fellow students from across the globe within a vibrant intellectual setting.

Careers:

Career Prospects:

• The Global Security MSc equips graduates with versatile skills sought-after by various employing organizations worldwide.
• Graduates have successfully secured positions across a wide range of fields:
• International organizations: European Union agencies, World Trade Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and International Criminal Court (ICC).
• Research agencies focused on peace and security issues.
• Security and risk analysis consulting firms providing expertise to businesses, organizations, and governments.
• Universities & research institutions: Pursuing doctoral research careers in various aspects of security and international relations.

Other:

Additional Points:

• This program has a strong global outlook and attracts a diverse community of students, fostering valuable intercultural dialogue and enriching the learning experience.
• This program provides students with a platform to gain valuable skills in critical analysis, communication, research, problem-solving, and teamwork, crucial for success in careers related to global security.
• Program graduates are prepared to contribute to addressing contemporary security threats with a deep understanding of various challenges, their underlying causes, and potential solutions within a globalized context.

MSc UK Full-time fee: £10650 Part-time fee: £1184 per 20 credits International & EU Full-time fee: £24000