Program Overview

Overview

The International Security: Conflict, Crime and Justice MScL programme explores the relationship between international legal and political systems with security challenges, understanding how socio-economic insecurity impacts the well-being of communities.

What You'll Learn

With a focus on conflict, crime, and security, students will:

• Gain an in-depth understanding of concepts, theories, debates, and legal frameworks shaping the field of international security.
• Develop expert knowledge of interdisciplinary social science research methods and approaches, applying them in practice.
• Explore case studies across regions, applying theoretical concepts to real-world examples of international security issues.

Modules

The programme includes compulsory and optional modules:

• Compulsory Modules:
  • Global Security: Politics, Space and Society
  • Researching Security: Interdisciplinary Methods
  • Security Dissertation
• Optional Modules:
  • Political Geographies of the Middle East
  • Geographical Inequalities and Policy
  • Migration, Displacement and Global Challenges
  • Cybersecurity Law and Policy
  • Law of Armed Conflict
  • Public International Law
  • Global Security Law
  • International Criminal Law
  • International Human Rights and Development: Global Challenges
  • Social Media Regulation: Law, Policy and Society
  • Theories of International Relations
  • American Foreign Policy
  • Development, Environment and International Politics
  • Critical Geopolitics
  • Theorising Gender and Its Intersections
  • Global Sex Global Race
  • Inequalities: Issues and Intersections
  • Perpetual Wars? Crime, Policing and (in)Security

How You'll Learn

Teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Discussion workshops and seminars
• Seminars
• Groupwork
• Guest speakers
• Policy and legal drafting simulations Assessment methods depend on the modules chosen and may include:
• Case study
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Oral presentation
• Poster
• Portfolio
• Problem-solving exercises
• Research proposal
• Written exercise

Your Development

Over the course of the programme, students will develop a range of professional, research, and practical skills highly desired by employers, including:

• Working across multi-disciplinary teams
• Critically evaluating key arguments and themes
• Synthesising information from various primary and secondary sources
• Enhancing ability to communicate both orally and in writing to different audiences
• Planning, conducting, and communicating their own research and work

Your Future

The programme prepares students for careers in a range of sectors, including:

• Local and national government
• International organisations
• Voluntary and non-governmental organisations
• Public and private legal practice
• Journalism
• International development
• Regulation and compliance The University's Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, providing support and links with employers.

Quality and Ranking

Newcastle University is ranked:

• Global Top 140 University (QS World University Rankings 2026)
• Global Top 160 University (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025)
• Top 125 for Social Sciences (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
• Top 200 for Law (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
• Top 200 for Politics and International Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
• Top 200 for Sociology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
• Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024)

Facilities

Students have access to common student workspaces in the Henry Daysh Building, which houses Geography, Politics, and Sociology, and the Windsor Terrace Law School, including facilities such as a dedicated Postgraduate Taught hub, computer lab, kitchen, and general student common room.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry:

• Home students: £11,400 (full-time), £5,700 (part-time)
• International students: £25,900 (full-time) Scholarships are available, including a 25% discount off the international fee for EU students without settled or pre-settled status.

Entry Requirements

• A 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant field.
• English Language requirements: IELTS, Pearson, Duolingo English Test, or TOEFL.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted throughout the year, with no closing date. International students are advised to apply at least two months before the course starts. A deposit of £1,500 is required for international students who need a visa to study in the UK. The application portal guides students through the process, and support is available for any questions.