International Relations and Politics MA (Hons)
City Campus , United Kingdom
International Relations and Politics MA (Hons)
University of Dundee
International Relations and Politics
Program Overview: International Relations and Politics MA (Hons)
The International Relations and Politics MA (Hons) at the University of Dundee is designed to help you examine the interactions between states and study political theory to address some of the most pressing problems facing humanity. You will develop skills and tools to make sense of complex interrelationships in a world defined by conflict, cooperation, and the growing significance of non-state actors.
The MA degree structure allows you to study Politics alongside complementary subjects such as History, Geography, languages, and Psychology during your first two years. At Levels 3 and 4, you specialise in your chosen area, building deep expertise in international relations and political analysis while completing a dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Delivered by a small and friendly department within the School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, this program offers a diverse range of subjects with very few compulsory modules. Each lecturer focuses on teaching specialist areas in which they have an established track record of research, ensuring you learn from active scholars at the forefront of their fields.
Key Program Highlights
- Flexible interdisciplinary structure allowing you to combine Politics with subjects like History, Geography, languages, and Psychology
- Specialist optional modules covering Russian, Irish, and Middle Eastern politics, nations and nationalism, political theories, and human rights
- Small, supportive department with research-active teaching staff and personalised academic guidance
- Practical employability support including micro-placements, career planning modules, and seven annual recruitment fairs featuring around 250 employers
Curriculum and Modules
The program is structured across four levels, with broad interdisciplinary study in the first two years and increasing specialisation in Levels 3 and 4. You benefit from a diverse selection of optional modules taught by specialists with established research expertise, allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals.
Introduction to International Relations
20 creditsCovers the theoretical and conceptual aspects of international relations, followed by exploration of the major processes within the international system. This foundational module provides the analytical frameworks needed for advanced study.
Comparative Politics
20 creditsIntroduces students to the methodology and practice of comparative politics by systematically examining key thematic and methodological issues in the comparative study of contemporary political systems.
The Politics of the United Nations
20 creditsExplores the United Nations' place in contemporary international relations, examining both the impact and the limitations of the UN in the post-1945 international system.
Nations and Nationalism
20 creditsOffers both theoretical insights and practical perspectives on nationalism, covering prominent theories as well as associated topics including conflict, self-determination, minorities, citizenship, ethnicity, gender, and globalisation.
Politics and International Relations Dissertation
40 creditsA capstone research project where you design and execute an independent dissertation on a topic of your choice in international relations or politics, demonstrating advanced research and analytical skills.
Directed Reading on Research Design
20 creditsPrepares you for your dissertation by developing essential skills in research methodology through guided readings. You will create a research design proposal tailored to your chosen topic.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The University of Dundee welcomes applications from students worldwide. Admission to the International Relations and Politics MA (Hons) is based on your academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and supporting documents. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance through the entire admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsTwo GCE Advanced Levels at minimum grades (specific grades vary; contact Uni4Edu for details)
- International BaccalaureateMinimum 28 points (contact Uni4Edu for the latest requirements)
- Scottish HighersRelevant Higher qualifications at required grades (contact Uni4Edu for specifics)
- BTECRelevant BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma at specified grades
- International QualificationsCountry-specific equivalencies accepted; contact Uni4Edu for your country's requirements
English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic)Minimum overall score of 6.0 with no component below 5.5 (confirm with Uni4Edu)
- TOEFL iBTMinimum overall score of 78 (single sitting only; MyBest scores not accepted)
- PTE AcademicMinimum overall score of 56 with at least 56 in all four skills
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Dundee offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support international students. Uni4Edu can guide you through the application process for these awards and help you identify the funding options best suited to your profile and circumstances.
Global Excellence Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000 per year of studyAwarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and strong extracurricular or voluntary activities. Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students on eligible full-time, on-campus courses.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000 per year (up to GBP 20,000 total)Regional scholarships offered to applicants from specific countries and regions including Africa, South Asia, and mainland China. Eligibility is automatically assessed based on your application details.
Global Citizenship Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000 per year of studyRecognises applicants who strongly align with the University of Dundee's values. Open to international fee-status students and assessed through a dedicated application process. Contact Uni4Edu for full 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 International Relations and Politics MA (Hons) at Dundee are well prepared for careers in government, international organisations, media, the third sector, and the private sector. The university provides dedicated careers support including one-to-one CV advice, interview preparation, micro-placements, and seven annual recruitment fairs featuring around 250 local, national, and global employers.
Typical Graduate Roles
Sectors and Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Dundee is a well-regarded institution with strong performance across multiple national and international ranking systems. Named Scottish University of the Year 2025 by the Daily Mail University Guide, Dundee continues to climb in league tables and is recognised for impactful research and outstanding student satisfaction.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences and Public Health | US News | Top 500 globally |
| Overall Student Satisfaction (Scotland) | National Student Survey | 1st in Scotland in 12 subjects |
| Research Excellence | REF 2021 | 84% world-leading or internationally excellent |
| Employability | QS Employability Rankings | Top 200 globally |
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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