Program Overview

MRes Politics and International Relations

The purpose of this programme is to prepare students for doctoral study, at Reading or elsewhere, in any area of Politics and International Relations. It is suitable for both graduates in Politics and/or International Relations and students with a background in other academic subjects.

Overview

You can select any modules that are offered by the Department of Politics and International Relations. However, you are required to undertake thorough research training, delivered via three modules:

• Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
• Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods
• Philosophical Issues in the Social Sciences

This training forms the basis of your 13,000-15,000-word dissertation, supported by an expert adviser with knowledge of your area. The programme has Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) recognition; at its conclusion, graduates are therefore qualified to apply for three-year (as opposed to 1+3) ESRC studentships.

Structure

Year 1

Compulsory Modules

• Philosophy of Social Science: Prepare for future doctoral study as you explore the philosophical, methodological, and ethical questions that are inseparable from research design in politics and international relations.
• Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods: Learn the basics of research design and discover a range of widely used qualitative research methods.
• Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods: Learn the basics of research design and discover a range of widely used quantitative research methods.

Optional Modules

• Politics of Public Policy: Discover how policy decisions are made and implemented.
• International Relations Theory: Investigate the main theories of international relations and discover how to critically examine and evaluate competing theoretical arguments.
• International Security Studies: Examine the nature and objectives of security politics from different perspectives.
• Contemporary Diplomacy: Gain an understanding of the concepts and practices of contemporary diplomacy.
• Terrorism in a Globalising World: Consider the central issues and theoretical dimensions in the study of terrorism in a globalising world.
• Worlding International Relations: Study the history and current development of international relations.
• Building Peace: Consider the challenges of building peace in conflict-affected states.
• NATO Strategy during and after the Cold War: Study NATO's Strategic Concepts that have developed since its formation in 1949.
• International Organisations in Global Politics: Evaluate different approaches to building peace in fragile and conflict-affected states.
• Strategic Studies: Examine the concepts and practices of strategic studies.

Entry Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent)
• Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (high 2.2 level or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK.
• All of our programmes are appropriate for students from any disciplinary background, although a degree in politics, economics, international relations or a related field is preferred.
• Relevant work experience may also be taken into account.

Fees

• New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £12,050
• New international students: £26,450
• If you study part-time over two years, your fees will be calculated at 50% of the annual full-time fee in each year.
• Fees will increase each year according to inflation (up to 4%) and will be rounded up to the nearest £50.

Careers

The purpose of this programme is to supply a portable qualification that will satisfy a university or a potential employer of your competence to undertake doctoral research. Besides universities and public sector bodies, it offers excellent preparation for careers within think tanks or NGOs.