Global Security Studies MSc

Program Overview

The MSc Global Security Studies at the University of Exeter equips students with expertise in global security issues, analytical skills, and practical abilities. Through a combination of core modules, optional modules, and a dissertation, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of global security challenges and prepares graduates for careers in government, business, or the third sector.

Program Outline

MSc Global Security Studies - University of Exeter

Degree Overview:

This MSc program aims to equip students with expertise in global security, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities, making them highly sought-after in today's challenging world. The program focuses on:

• Training in major global security issues: Students gain a comprehensive understanding of key theories and contemporary challenges in global security.
• Developing vocational skills: The program emphasizes acquiring practical skills needed to analyze current security challenges and opportunities in the policy world.
• Specialization and career preparation: Students can focus on specific areas of interest and develop the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in security and strategy, including roles within governmental and non-governmental organizations at both domestic and international levels.
• Practice-focused training: The program includes a core, intensive three-day module that provides practical, employability-specific training for students seeking careers in security and strategy.

Outline:

The MSc Global Security Studies program draws upon the strengths of the University's Politics department, particularly in security, strategy, global politics, and international relations. The program structure includes:

• Core modules: These modules provide a broad-based training in major theories of global security and develop analytical skills.
• Optional modules: Students can choose from a range of modules in security, international relations, global governance, and politics, allowing for specialization and tailoring the program to individual interests.
• Dissertation: Students undertake a 15,000-word extended essay on a topic of their choice, supervised by a faculty member.
• Capstone module: This module provides practical, employability-specific training for students seeking careers in security and strategy.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Presentations: Students present their research and findings to their peers and faculty, developing their communication and presentation skills.
• Group work: Collaborative projects and assignments foster teamwork and communication skills.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is a major assessment component, requiring students to conduct independent research and demonstrate their ability to synthesize and present complex arguments.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: These provide a foundation in key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Interactive discussions and debates allow students to engage with course material and develop critical thinking skills.
• Group work: Collaborative projects and assignments foster teamwork and communication skills.
• Presentations: Students present their research and findings to their peers and faculty, developing their communication and presentation skills.
• Individual supervision: Students receive personalized guidance and support from faculty members for their dissertation research.

Careers:

The MSc Global Security Studies program prepares graduates for a range of careers in the field, including:

• Public sector: Roles in defense and security, government agencies, and international organizations.
• Business: Positions in security consulting, risk management, and intelligence analysis.
• Third sector: Work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international development agencies.
• The program director is Dr. David Blagden, a Senior Lecturer in International Security with extensive experience in government, academia, and the military.
• The program is recognized by the QS World University Subject Rankings 2024 as being in the Top 100 in the world for Politics and in the Top 10 in the UK for Politics and International Studies research.
• The program is designed to develop employer-valued skills, such as advanced independent thinking, time management, communication, and teamwork.
• The program offers a range of scholarships and bursaries for eligible students.
• the Outline section is limited to a general description of the program's structure.

2024/25 entry UK fees per year: £12,000 full-time; £6,000 part-time International fees per year: £24,300 full-time; £12,150 part-time