International Relations MSc
Central Area Campus, United Kingdom
Master of Science in International Relations
University of Edinburgh
International Relations
Program Overview: MSc International Relations
The MSc International Relations at the University of Edinburgh offers intensive training in the theory and practice of international relations, preparing you for a diverse range of international careers or further research. The programme explores pressing global issues such as war, terrorism, power, diplomacy, climate change, trade, poverty, migration, and international cooperation.
You will examine global empirical issues and developments while adopting a range of theoretical approaches, allowing you to analyse and interpret the world with different conceptual lenses. Staff members combine intricate knowledge of major international institutions with a deep appreciation of historical change and key ideas in international thought.
Delivered by the School of Social and Political Science, the programme combines innovative research with creative and inspirational teaching. The MSc is offered full-time over 12 months and culminates in an independently researched dissertation of up to 10,000 words on a topic largely of your choosing.
Key Program Highlights
- Intensive one-year programme combining core courses with a wide selection of optional topic-specific modules
- Taught by faculty with deep expertise in major international institutions, historical change, and international political thought
- Specialist optional courses covering regions such as Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia
- Culminates in a 10,000-word independently researched dissertation supervised by a dedicated academic
Curriculum and Modules
The taught MSc programme combines a small number of core courses with a larger number of optional, topic-specific courses. Core courses generally involve large-group lectures complemented with small-group tutorials, while optional courses are taught through lectures, tutorials, or interactive seminar sessions. You will also undertake an independently researched dissertation in the final stage of the programme.
International Relations Theory
20 CreditsA foundational course examining the major theoretical paradigms in international relations, including realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical theories that shape how scholars and practitioners understand global politics.
Research Design and Dissertation Preparation
20 CreditsThis core course equips you with essential research skills and methodological approaches needed to design, plan, and execute your independent dissertation project in international relations.
International Security
20 CreditsExplores contemporary security challenges including terrorism, conflict, arms control, and the evolving nature of threats in the international system, drawing on both traditional and critical security studies perspectives.
International Political Economy
20 CreditsExamines the interplay between politics and economics at the global level, covering topics such as trade, finance, development, inequality, and the role of international economic institutions.
Diplomacy and Foreign Policy
20 CreditsAnalyses the theory and practice of diplomacy and foreign policy-making, exploring how states and non-state actors negotiate, cooperate, and manage conflict in the international arena.
MSc Dissertation
60 CreditsAn extended independent research project of up to 10,000 words on a topic of your choosing, supervised by an academic specialist. This is the most advanced element of the degree, requiring progression from structured coursework to independent study.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Entrance to the MSc International Relations programme is strongly competitive, and applicants are encouraged to exceed the minimum requirements to strengthen their application. All applications are reviewed through Uni4Edu, where our team guides you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Degree RequirementA UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in politics, international relations, or the social sciences
- Alternative BackgroundsApplicants with a different academic background may be considered if they have taken courses relevant to the programme
- Academic StandingStrongly competitive entry; exceeding minimum requirements improves your chances of admission
- Application FeeGBP 50 non-refundable application fee required
- ReferencesReferences are not usually required for applications to this programme
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicTotal 7.0 with at least 6.0 in each component
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current TOEFL score requirements
- Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)Total 185 with at least 169 in each component
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for international postgraduate students. Many students combine multiple funding sources to cover tuition and living costs. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding options available to you.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
Covers tuition fee differential and living allowanceFully funded scholarships for outstanding international postgraduate students. These awards are highly competitive and based on academic excellence and strong research potential.
GREAT Scholarships
GBP 10,000 towards tuition feesOffered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, these scholarships support students from eligible countries pursuing one-year postgraduate Masters programmes at Edinburgh.
Chevening Scholarships
Fully funded (tuition, travel, and living expenses)Funded by the UK Government, Chevening Scholarships are aimed at developing future global leaders. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive impact in their home country.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The MSc International Relations prepares graduates for careers across a wide range of institutions and sectors. The programme develops transferable skills in critical analysis, research, communication, and independent thinking that are highly valued by employers worldwide. Graduates can also use the MSc as a stepping stone towards doctoral research in International Relations or related fields.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers of Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world and is recognised as one of the UK's leading research-intensive institutions. Its School of Social and Political Science provides a strong academic environment for the study of international relations.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Politics and International Studies | QS World Rankings | Top 50 |
| Social Sciences and Management | QS World Rankings | Top 50 |
| Arts and Humanities | THE World Rankings | Top 30 |
| Research Power (UK) | Research Excellence Framework | #4 in UK |
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.
Similar Programmes
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
Inequalities and Social Science MSc
University of Leeds, , United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
26500 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
International Development MSc
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
32000 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Social Policy and Sociology MA
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
29600 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Social Policy with Quantitative Methods MA
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
29600 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Social Policy with Quantitative Methods (with Placement Year) MA
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
29600 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
