Politics and International Relations (Political Theory)
Main Campus, United Kingdom
Master of Arts in Politics and International Relations (Political Theory)
Durham University
Politics and International Relations
Program Overview: MA Politics and International Relations (Political Theory)
The MA in Politics and International Relations (Political Theory) at Durham University equips you with the skills to challenge conventional thinking, master complex political concepts, and analyse your own views about some of the most pressing global challenges. You will immerse yourself in debates spanning human rights, the ethics of armed conflict, and the history of political thought, developing a critical understanding of the relationships between governments and societies.
This program provides systematic knowledge and the tools to evaluate concepts, theories, and paradigms within the broad field of politics and international relations, drawing lessons from real-world studies informed by both quantitative and qualitative investigations. Your learning will be shaped by ongoing research from experts working at the forefront of their field within the School of Government and International Affairs.
Core modules in political ideologies and thought alongside international theory and organisation form the foundation of the course. The remaining modules can be tailored to suit your interests, with options spanning topics from Designing Political Inquiry to Global Governance, allowing you to explore the politics and international relations of different regions in greater depth.
Key Program Highlights
- Specialised focus on political theory within a broader politics and international relations framework, covering ideologies, philosophy, and global political thought.
- Flexible curriculum allowing you to tailor optional modules to your interests, from European Union politics to East Asian political systems.
- Taught within the School of Government and International Affairs, with learning informed by faculty research at the forefront of political science.
- Culminates in a 10,000-word independent dissertation, worth one-third of your final mark, enabling deep engagement with a research topic of your choice.
Curriculum and Modules
The MA in Politics and International Relations (Political Theory) combines core modules in political thought and international theory with a flexible selection of optional modules and an independent dissertation. Assessment methods include essays, group projects, presentations, and formative feedback throughout the course to help you build on your strengths.
Ideologies and Political Thought
Core ModuleExamines the major political ideologies that have shaped modern political discourse, exploring their historical development, theoretical foundations, and contemporary relevance in political practice.
Contemporary Political Philosophy
Core ModuleInvestigates critical debates in contemporary political philosophy, focusing on how philosophical inquiry shapes and drives action in responding to pressing political issues of our time.
International Relations Theory
Core ModuleProvides a comprehensive grounding in the major theoretical frameworks used to understand international politics, examining how states and non-state actors interact within the global system.
International Organisation
Core ModuleAnalyses the role, structure, and effectiveness of international organisations in shaping global governance, conflict resolution, and multilateral cooperation.
Dissertation
Core Module (One-Third of Final Mark)A 10,000-word independent research project conducted with support from an appointed supervisor. The dissertation brings together elements of learning from across the course and allows you to explore a topic of your choice in depth.
Core Concepts in Political Science
Optional ModuleExplores the foundational concepts that underpin political science as a discipline, equipping you with the analytical vocabulary and frameworks necessary for advanced political inquiry.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The MA in Politics and International Relations (Political Theory) at Durham University welcomes applications from graduates with strong academic backgrounds. All applications and inquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu, your dedicated point of contact for the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeUK 2:1 Bachelor's degree or international equivalent
- Preferred BackgroundA degree in Social Sciences is preferable, though other backgrounds with relevant experience may be considered
- Academic ReferencesTwo satisfactory academic references required; one work-related reference may be accepted for applicants with significant relevant experience
- Personal StatementA statement outlining your academic interests, motivation for the program, and career aspirations
- Pre-Masters PathwayInternational students who do not meet direct entry requirements may be eligible for a pre-Masters pathway program
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall score of 6.5 (contact Uni4Edu to confirm minimum component scores)
- TOEFL iBTOverall score of 92 (contact Uni4Edu to confirm minimum component scores)
- Test ValidityEnglish language test must be no more than two years old at the start of the program
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Durham University and external bodies offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for funding options that match your profile and circumstances.
Durham Masters Scholarship
Competitive scholarships offered by Durham University to outstanding postgraduate taught students, awarded on the basis of academic merit and potential.
Global Study Awards
Up to GBP 10,000An international scholarship program supporting students pursuing study abroad opportunities, funded by a consortium of education organisations.
Country-Specific and External Scholarships
Varies by schemeVarious government-funded and external scholarships are available depending on your country of origin, including Chevening, Commonwealth, and Fulbright schemes. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA in Politics and International Relations (Political Theory) are equipped with an academic and practical skill set that opens doors to a wide range of careers in government, international organisations, journalism, and beyond. Durham provides dedicated employability support through careers events, visiting speakers, and a global alumni network.
Potential Career Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
Durham University is consistently ranked among the leading universities in the United Kingdom and the world, with particular strength in the social sciences and humanities. It has maintained a position in the QS World Top 100 every year since 2010 and was named The Times and The Sunday Times UK University of the Year 2026.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Politics and International Studies | QS World Rankings by Subject | Joint 79th |
| Social Sciences and Management | QS World Rankings by Subject | Joint 78th |
| Arts and Humanities | QS World Rankings by Subject | Joint 31st |
| Philosophy | QS World Rankings by Subject | Joint 39th |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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