International Relations (MA)

The International Relations MA provides a structure for the advanced study of an exciting disciplinary field. You'll develop a full understanding of the development of the discipline of international relations and will be able to pursue specialist interests within a general framework.

Why Study This Course

Gain a thorough understanding of international relations, taught by research-active experts in several specialisms. The programme bridges the sub-fields of international security, international relations theory, international law, foreign policy analysis, political philosophy, and political science. While specialist optional modules address a range of contemporary global concerns such as environmental politics, feminism, digital technologies, and conflict management.

• Advanced research skills
• A focus on developing research skills, methods and confidence within a supportive environment.
• Connected
• Close links to the Welsh Centre for International Affairs and the United Nations Association (Wales).
• Engaging speakers
• A vibrant interdisciplinary research environment hosting regular research seminars and visiting speakers.
• Specialist modules
• Modules built on the distinctive and cross-disciplinary opportunities afforded by our expertise in law, politics and international relations.

Admissions Criteria

In order to be considered for an offer for this programme you will need to meet all of the entry requirements. Your application will not be progressed if the information and evidence listed is not provided.

1. A copy of your degree certificate and transcripts which show you have achieved a 2:2 honours degree in economics, English, geography, history, international relations, law, modern languages, philosophy, politics, psychology, religious studies, sociology, social policy, or an equivalent international degree.
2. A copy of your IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent.

If you do not have a degree in a relevant area, your application may be considered on the basis of your professional experience. Please provide additional evidence to support your application such as signed and dated employer references and evidence of professional registration with a relevant regulatory or professional body.

Course Structure

The programme takes a 2 stage approach.

• During Stage 1 (the taught stage) of the programme, you'll study a maximum of 120 taught credits, comprising six 20 credit modules.
• On successful completion of Stage 1, you'll progress to Stage 2 (the master's degree stage) and undertake a 60 credit, level 7 dissertation module.

Core Modules

Module Title	Module Code	Credits
Issues in International Relations	PLT255	20 credits
Research Methods in IR: Approaches to Knowledge	PLT257	20 credits
War, Peace, Crisis and Globalisation	PLT271	20 credits
Dissertation	PLT080	60 credits

Optional Modules

Module Title	Module Code	Credits
European Law and Governance: Looking in from the outside	CLT670	20 credits
Conflict and Peace: Northern Ireland	PLT260	20 credits
Political Theories for Contemporary Times	PLT262	20 credits
Global Environmental Politics	PLT264	20 credits
Secrecy and Accountability: Intelligence in the 21st century	PLT266	20 credits
Multilateralism and International Law	PLT267	20 credits
Decolonising the Present	PLT270	20 credits

Learning and Assessment

How Will I Be Taught?

Study for a master's degree is intensive and challenging and it is important that you take full advantage of the teaching that is provided in order to succeed. Attendance at classes and dissertation supervisions is compulsory and we will expect you to be well prepared.

• Our teaching will be delivered through seminars or a combination of lectures and seminars.
• Other teaching methods include the online use of discussion boards, self-access study packs and formative quizzes and activities.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Assessment will be made up of formative and summative assessment.

• Formative tasks do not contribute towards your final degree classification but are designed to give you an opportunity to develop your skills and practice for your summative assessments.
• Summative assessments contribute towards your final degree classification.

Tuition Fees

Fees for Home Status

Year	Tuition Fee	Deposit
Year one	£11,200	None

Fees for Overseas Status

Year	Tuition Fee	Deposit
Year one	£24,700	£2,500

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section.

• Master's Scholarships: An award open to UK students intending to study one of our taught master's degrees.
• Alumni Discount: The alumni discount is available for Cardiff University graduates who are planning to start an eligible master's in 2026/27.
• Postgraduate loans: If you are starting your master's degree in September 2026 or later, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan to support your study at Cardiff University.

Career Prospects

Graduates from this programme have found employment in a variety of fields, including government and diplomatic service, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), media and international organisations. A number of our graduates have gone on to pursue PhDs and further research. The course is also useful as a general qualification for careers such as teaching, banking, and commerce.

Cardiff University

---

Overview:

Cardiff University is a leading research-intensive university located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. It is known for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and commitment to community engagement.

---

Services Offered:

Study:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and international programs across various subject areas. They also provide support services for students, including funding, tuition fee information, and career guidance.

Research:

The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a focus on tackling major challenges facing society, the economy, and the environment. They offer various research facilities and support for researchers.

Work with us:

Cardiff University collaborates with businesses and organizations to provide consultancy services, funded opportunities, and workforce development programs.

Community:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering various projects, resources, and events to support learning, promote Welsh language and culture, and contribute to the green recovery.

Global:

Cardiff University has strong global partnerships with universities and organizations worldwide, fostering international research collaborations and student exchange programs.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Living in Cardiff:

Cardiff is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, entertainment options, and social activities.

Welsh Language and Culture:

Students have opportunities to learn Welsh and experience the rich Welsh language culture, which is prevalent in Cardiff.

Campus Facilities:

The university provides excellent campus facilities, including libraries, sports facilities, and conference spaces.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Campus Facilities:

Cardiff University offers modern and well-equipped facilities to support student learning and research.

Excellent Career Prospects:

The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant Student Life:

Cardiff is a lively city with a thriving student community, offering a diverse range of social and cultural experiences.

Research Excellence:

Cardiff University is renowned for its research excellence, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Community Engagement:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering students opportunities to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.

---

Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various subject areas, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Postgraduate:

The university provides a diverse range of postgraduate programs, including taught courses and research degrees.

International:

Cardiff University welcomes international students and offers specific programs and support services tailored to their needs.

---

Other:

Rankings:

Cardiff University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, reflecting its academic excellence.

Quality Marks:

The university holds various quality marks, including the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) diamond logo, demonstrating its commitment to quality assurance.

Russell Group:

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, a prestigious group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.