Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts in International Studies

The Master of Arts in International Studies is a one-year, full-time program designed to advance careers in public administration, international organizations, NGOs, or business. This program explores global issues such as terrorism, nuclear proliferation, global inequality, and globalization through the lens of international relations theories.

Program Overview

During this program, students will:

• Explore key international political phenomena and global challenges
• Develop expertise in areas that match their interests
• Learn to apply social scientific research methods
• Gain analytical and transferable skills to enhance employability
• Participate in an optional study trip to Brussels or Geneva

Program Content

The program is delivered on campus and can be completed full-time in one year. Modules are taught during the autumn and spring semesters, with a dissertation submitted at the end of the summer semester. Students learn through a blend of lectures, workshops, experiential learning, reflective practice, and supervised research, with regular feedback from faculty and peers.

Year 1

Autumn Semester

Core modules include:

• Graduate Seminar in International Relations: Examines significant theories, issues, and debates in the study of International Relations.
• Graduate Research Methods: Familiarizes students with alternative approaches to the conduct of research in social sciences. Electives (choose 1):
• Graduate Seminar in Development
• Graduate Seminar in Institutions and Policies of the European Union
• Graduate Seminar in Contemporary Political Theory
• Graduate Seminar in Peacebuilding

Spring Semester

Core modules include:

• Graduate Seminar in International Co-operation and Conflict; Research Methods: Develops an understanding of the theories and methods used in the empirical study of International Relations.
• Optional study trip to Brussels or Geneva, including visits to European institutions and other international organizations, and seminar discussions with practitioners. Electives (choose 2):
• Conflict Analysis
• Graduate Seminar in Comparative Politics
• Graduate Seminar in Peacebuilding
• Graduate Seminar in European Governance
• External Relations of the European Union
• Russian and Post Soviet Politics
• Foreign Aid and Development
• Development Practice and Programme Management
• Global Justice
• Representative Democracy in Europe
• International Political Economy

Summer Semester

• Dissertation

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) in a relevant discipline with at least a second-class honours (2:2)
• Applicants may be shortlisted and invited to interview
• International students: Details on country-specific qualifications and English language requirements are available.

Fees

• EU: €7,995
• Non-EU: €18,600 Annual fees are billed by semester, with options for a monthly payment plan.

Graduate Profile

This course can lead to careers in:

• Public administration
• International organizations
• Non-governmental organizations
• Think tanks
• Interest groups
• Journalism
• Business

Graduates of the program have gone on to work in various roles, including research and international relations positions. The program equips students with the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed in their careers.