International Relations MSc
City Campus , United Kingdom
International Relations MSc
University of Dundee
Politics and International Relations
Program Overview: International Relations MSc
The International Relations MSc at the University of Dundee teaches you how to analyse global political dynamics by exploring how international relations are changing in an era of economic, social, and political globalisation. You will gain a thorough grounding in the academic study of international politics, focusing on theoretical approaches and methods of analysis.
With a diverse set of research and teaching specialisms in Politics and International Relations, the program offers a variety of modules that allow you to tailor your studies to your interests. You can also select modules from other Energy, Environment and Society postgraduate courses, broadening your educational opportunities significantly.
The program examines traditional state actors as well as a variety of intergovernmental and non-governmental actors, giving you a solid understanding of the key global issues and challenges facing us today. With small class sizes, you will benefit from developing close working relationships with both staff and peers, engaging in an immersive, intensive learning experience.
Key Program Highlights
- Small class sizes enabling close working relationships with expert academic staff and fellow students
- Flexible module selection including options from Energy, Environment and Society postgraduate courses
- Teaching by leading experts in areas such as Russian politics, Middle East politics, international security, and humanitarian intervention
- Strong pathway to PhD study and professional careers in government, NGOs, and international organisations
Curriculum and Modules
The International Relations MSc curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in international politics theory alongside specialist optional modules. The program is structured across taught semesters and a dissertation period, totalling 180 credits, allowing you to develop both breadth and depth of knowledge in global affairs.
International Relations Theory
20 CreditsExplore the basic premises of social scientific explanations of international relations, critically analyse various theoretical approaches, and examine the causes of cooperation and conflict in the international system.
Research Methods in Politics and International Relations
20 CreditsDevelop essential qualitative and quantitative research skills for analysing political and international phenomena, preparing you for independent academic inquiry and your dissertation.
International Security
20 CreditsExamine contemporary debates surrounding security in the international system, including traditional and non-traditional security threats, conflict resolution, and the role of international institutions.
Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention
20 CreditsCritically assess the theory and practice of human rights protection and humanitarian intervention, exploring ethical dilemmas and the evolving norms of international responsibility.
Global Governance and International Organisations
20 CreditsAnalyse the structures and processes of global governance, examining the roles of intergovernmental organisations, non-state actors, and multilateral frameworks in addressing transnational challenges.
MSc Dissertation
60 CreditsUndertake an independent research project on a topic of your choice within international relations, demonstrating advanced analytical skills and the ability to produce a substantial piece of original academic work.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The International Relations MSc welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who demonstrate strong analytical skills and an interest in global affairs. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our team will guide you through every step of the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA 2:1 Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant social science discipline such as Politics, International Relations, History, or a related field
- Academic BackgroundDemonstrated competence in essay-based assessment and critical analysis; applicants from non-traditional backgrounds with relevant professional experience may also be considered
- International QualificationsInternational qualifications equivalent to a UK 2:1 Honours degree are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific equivalency guidance
- Personal StatementA well-written personal statement outlining your motivation for studying International Relations and your career aspirations
- ReferencesTwo academic or professional references supporting your suitability for postgraduate study
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.5 with no component below 5.5 (or equivalent)
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 78-80 overall (contact Uni4Edu for exact requirements)
- PTE AcademicMinimum score of 59-64 overall (contact Uni4Edu for exact requirements)
Required Documents
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 for international postgraduate students. These awards are designed to support academically talented students and are typically applied as partial tuition fee reductions. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
Global Excellence Postgraduate Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000 per yearAvailable to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and excellence in extracurricular or voluntary activities. Automatically assessed upon receiving an offer of entry for a full-time 180-credit postgraduate taught program.
Vice-Chancellor's Regional Scholarship
Up to GBP 7,000 per yearRegion-specific scholarships offered to prospective international postgraduate students from eligible countries. The award is deducted directly from tuition fees. Contact Uni4Edu to check your regional eligibility.
Alumni Family Scholarship
GBP 3,000Available to international postgraduate students who are University of Dundee alumni or have an immediate family member who completed a full degree at the university. Applied as a tuition fee reduction for one year of study.
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 MSc at the University of Dundee are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, and the private sector. The university provides extensive career and employability support to help you explore options, develop skills, and connect with employers.
Potential Career Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Dundee is a well-established public research university with strong rankings across multiple national and international league tables. Founded in 1881, the university has earned recognition for its teaching quality, student satisfaction, and research impact across a variety of disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences and Public Health | US News | Top 500 |
| Overall Student Satisfaction (Scotland) | National Student Survey | #1 in 12 subjects |
| Employability | QS Employability Rankings | Top 200 |
| Scottish University of the Year | Daily Mail University Guide | Winner |
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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