Program Overview

The University of Sheffield offers a Master of Arts (MA) degree in International Relations, which is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary international relations. The program is offered by the School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations, Faculty of Social Sciences.

Course Description

The MA International Relations degree aims to expand students' understanding of contemporary international relations by investigating how the global order is constituted, the ways in which it functions, and whether it might be under strain. Throughout their studies, students will explore key concepts and theories that will help them address pressing global challenges, such as global heating, ecological destruction, geopolitical conflict, public health crises, and rapid technological change.

Modules

A selection of modules is available each year, including:

• Core modules:
  • Understanding Politics
  • Debating International Relations
  • Research and Dissertation Preparation
  • Politics Dissertation
• Optional modules:
  • Contemporary Global Security
  • Policy-Making in the Real World
  • Development and the State
  • Democratic Governance in the 21st Century: Problems, Innovations and Solutions
  • Global Health and Global Politics
  • Political Economy of Global Environmental change
  • Capitalism and Crisis
  • Freedom
  • Terrorism and Political Violence
  • The Governance and Politics of the European Union

Duration and Attendance

The program is offered on a full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years) basis.

Teaching and Assessment

Students will be taught by experts working at the cutting edge of the field, who will bring their novel and important insights to bear on classroom discussion. The majority of the course will be taught through seminars, which offer an engaging and dynamic learning experience. Students will be assessed through a variety of assignments, typically including essays and portfolios, and final module exams where applicable. They will also complete a dissertation based on a topic of their choice, which enables them to put all of the skills and knowledge they've gained throughout their degree into practice.

Career Prospects

Our postgraduate students go on to work in a variety of exciting roles across the globe. The skills developed on this degree lend themselves particularly well to careers that require advanced analysis skills, such as government and the wider public sector, lobbying organisations, charities, and private companies.

School and Research Themes

The School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations is a research-intensive school, and research lies at the heart of everything they do. The school's staff have a wide range of research interests and expertise, which are brought together around four research themes:

• International politics
• Political economy
• Environmental politics
• Political theory
• Governance and public policy

Entry Requirements

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject. The degree should be in an arts and humanities or social sciences subject. International students are also considered, and their qualifications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

English Language Requirements

IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent.

Fees and Funding

• Home (2026 annual fee): £12,360
• Overseas (2026 annual fee): £26,320 There are also scholarships available, including a £3,000 tuition fee discount for overseas fee-paying students and a £2,500 discount for Sheffield graduates. ```python

University of Sheffield

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Overview:

The University of Sheffield is a renowned public research university located in Sheffield, England. It is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK. The university is known for its high-quality teaching, world-class research, and vibrant student life.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sheffield offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, study spaces, and academic advisors.

Career Services:

Guidance on career planning, job searching, and internships.

Student Support:

Mental health services, disability support, and financial aid.

Accommodation:

On-campus residences and off-campus housing options.

Student Life:

A diverse range of clubs, societies, sports teams, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Sheffield can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a strong Students' Union, which is ranked as the best in the UK. Students have access to a wide range of clubs, societies, and sports teams, catering to diverse interests. The city of Sheffield itself offers a lively cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

The university consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence.

World-Class Research:

The University of Sheffield is a leading research institution, with a strong reputation for innovation and impact.

Vibrant Student Life:

The university offers a rich and diverse student experience, with a strong Students' Union and a wide range of clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Supportive Environment:

The university provides a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, with a range of services and resources available to help them succeed.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sheffield offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

English Literature, History, Philosophy, Music, and more.

Science and Engineering:

Medicine, Dentistry, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, and more.

Social Sciences:

Economics, Politics, Sociology, Psychology, and more.

Business and Management:

Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and more.

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Other: