Program Overview

Introduction to the MA International Relations and Security Program

The MA International Relations and Security program is designed to provide students with a critical approach to complex security problems, enabling them to understand them at a global level of analysis. This program gives students the chance to develop an in-depth knowledge of security policies, their challenges, and the interconnected nature of threats.

Program Details

• Level of study: Masters
• Entry Requirements:
  • UK students: An undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK undergraduate honours degree (normally 2.2 or above)
  • International students: 2.2 honours degree or equivalent qualification
• Start date: September 2026
• Duration: One year full-time; two years part-time
• Attendance: Full-time, Part-time
• Course delivery: On-campus (City Campus)

About the Course

International security is a complex and rapidly evolving concern for many organisations, institutions, and governments. This course incorporates exciting ideas from emerging fields, giving students a richer, better-rounded, and more contemporaneous learning experience. Students will explore the theories, policies, and practices of international relations, becoming informed, independent critics of global affairs and the worldwide drivers for decision-making.

Module Information

Core Modules

• Approaches and Issues in International Security: This module discusses key concepts that help students understand and critically analyse contemporary global security issues.
• International Relations Theory: The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the range of approaches in international theory.
• Issues and Methods in Social Research: The aim of this module is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and methods of social research.
• SPS (Social and Political Sciences) Dissertation: The content of this module is different from others due to the nature of the exercise it entails, culminating in a dissertation that showcases the full breadth of skills, knowledge, and experiences accumulated throughout the course.

Optional Modules (pick one)

• Negotiating in International Contexts: This module focuses on strengthening negotiation and diplomacy skills.
• Diplomacy, Foreign Policy and Security: The aim of this module is to complement the first-term IR Theory module.
• Service Learning: This module provides the opportunity to link with social and civic organisations.
• Global Governance and International Institutions: This module provides a programme of study on the concept, theories, and processes of global governance.
• Intercultural Communication at Work: The overarching goal of the module is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to build their intercultural communication competence.

Teaching and Assessment

• The course is delivered through traditional lectures and seminars and complex role-playing of international institution negotiations exercises.
• Assessment on the course involves coursework, conducting one's own research piece, individual and group class presentations, and a reflective assessment.

Careers and Employability

As a graduate of this course, students will have had the opportunity to reflect on the subject and transferable skills they have learned while preparing coursework. These include expertise in writing complex, yet concise, analytical pieces, developing and implementing projects, diplomatic and negotiation skills, and the ability to present in-depth ideas with confidence.

Fees and Funding

• UK students:
  • Full-time: ｣9,100
  • Part-time: ｣4,550
• International students:
  • Full-time: ｣18,300
  • Part-time: ｣9,150

Campus and Facilities

Students will mainly be studying in the Chaucer and Newton buildings, at the centre of the vibrant City Campus. The facilities include a mock prison cell, banks of open-access PCs, social spaces for either quiet study or busy group work, and more.

Conclusion

The MA International Relations and Security program at Nottingham Trent University offers a comprehensive and engaging education in international relations and security, preparing students for a wide range of careers and professions. With its strong focus on developing critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills, this program is ideal for those seeking to understand and address the complex security challenges of the modern world.