MA International Relations: Global Security and Development

School of Law, Humanities and Social Sciences

MA International Relations: Global Security and Development

Duration	1 year
Course type	Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location	�鶹��ý

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Discover how and why underlying issues such as poverty, environmental degradation, societal inequities and politics create the international framework in which security conflicts emerge. Gain a sophisticated understanding of the dynamics that drive global politics, and the ability to use this knowledge in fields as diverse as diplomacy, journalism, finance, industry, public relations and risk analysis.

Careers with this subject

Career destinations include the UK Civil Service/Department of International Development; non-governmental organisations such as Social Development Direct, Refugee Services and Latitude Global Volunteering, the armed forces and other public-sector and private sector employers.

Key features

Gain a understanding of such topical issues as global politics, the rise of religious fundamentalism, human rights, world trade, poverty and climate change.
Take the opportunity to study the politics of several world regions – Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia – and critically debate their different perspectives.
Attain invaluable research skills – by studying this programme you will be able to conduct and present an extended piece of research.
Tailor your masters to match your career aspirations by choosing the subjects that most interest you from a range of elective modules.
Become part of a lively research community with the opportunity for interdisciplinary discussion and collaboration. Several of our students have gone on to work as research assistants.

Course details

Programme overview
You'll look at both the theory and practice of international relations in terms of the threats to, and vulnerabilities of, global security and development. Three compulsory modules will give you a basis for understanding global security, global governance and how to conduct advanced research. You'll then choose three specialised modules, giving you the opportunity to shape your degree to suit your interests. The certificate and diploma are available for those only completing part of the progression route. For the masters degree, you’ll complete a final dissertation on a specific aspect of the current security and/or development problems confronting policymakers in world politics. You’ll undertake a research and methodology module to support your masters research and equip you for your career. Learn through lectures, seminars and, in some cases, simulation exercises. Assessment of modules will be by a mixture of essays, seminar presentations, report writing, exams, and the dissertation.

Core modules

IRL723
Research and Professional Skills

This module is designed to develop practical research and professional skills for postgraduate international relations students. The focus of the module is twofold – practical issues in research and professional practice, grounded on a strong understanding of the fundamental, underlying ontological and epistemological issues that shape the methodological and research design choices that we face.

IRL725
MA Dissertation in Global Security and Development

This module provides MA students with the opportunity to demonstrate their research skills on a theoretical or applied topic of their own choosing. The topic is negotiated between students and teaching staff, who provide tutorial support and advice about all aspects of the project from initiation to completion. It requires the creation of a substantial dissertation in the field of Global Security and Development.

IRL726
International Security

International Security has traditionally been concerned with the stability of the states-based system, the use of force, nuclear proliferation, military strategy, and the distribution of resources. Today, concerns about climate change, migration, poverty, health, privatisation, organised crime and international terrorism are also on the agenda. This module undertakes to study these issues with the help of case studies.

Optional modules

IRL724
Economic Diplomacy and Development

This module focuses on economic diplomacy and the politics of ‘development’. It covers global/regional institutions as well as how developing states relate to major powers such as the US and China. It explains the major contemporary policy issues facing states in the Global South, including trade negotiations, trade disputes, the politics of development aid and development/climate finance.

IRL727
Critical Approaches to International Relations in Asia

This module introduces the students to the study of International Relations in Asia by examining revolutions, lived experiences and ideas around concepts such as world order. Students are encouraged to think relationally about domestic and international politics and historical context. These critical approaches to IR help students not only to think about politics beyond Asia, but also UN SDGs 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 13 and 16.

IRL728
The Politics and International Relations of the Middle East

The module introduces students to politics and international relations in the Middle East. It equips them with the analytical skills to examine regional rivalries and conflicts.

IRL729
The Politics of the United States

This module introduces students to the fundamental principles of politics in the United States. While domestic politics are privileged, consideration is given to the foreign policy of the US. Specific emphasis placed on the role of the Constitution and institutions of governance in promoting (or inhibiting) democracy both domestically and abroad.

^{The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.}

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MA International Relations: Global Security and Development programme specification_2557

Entry requirements

UK/EU
You should have a second-class honours degree or equivalent, or an equivalent professional qualification. Other qualifications accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field may also be considered. Non-standard applications will be considered on a case by case basis.

International
Please view the country specific pages for further information regarding the equivalency of your degree. International applicants will be required to provide evidence of their English language ability, for example by achieving an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent. Full English language requirements . Pre-sessional English language courses are available if you do not meet these requirements.

We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

Fees, costs and funding

	2025-2026	2026-2027
Home	£9,700	£10,000
International	£18,150	£18,700
Part time (Home)	£540	£560

Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits.

Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

PLEASE NOTE:

The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.

We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.

How to apply

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply

Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:

evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.

Disability Inclusion Services

If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides .

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.

We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.

If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:

Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

International students

If you are an international student wanting to study with us in the UK, you can ask questions about your course and scholarship options by registering your interest in studying with us in 2026.

Get tailored guidance for postgraduate taught study starting in 2026.

Polychronis Kapalidis – MA International Relations graduate

"�鶹��ý is a great place to study, both at an undergraduate and postgraduate level… Not only are the facilities modern, but the staff, both academic and administrative, are always there to assist you and to provide guidance and support."

Find out more about the challenges Polychronis has taken

Julie Voo, MA International Relations graduate

My time at �鶹��ý was invaluable due to the supportive staff, their diverse areas of research, and the vibrant and enriching extra-curricular activities, such as the University Politics and International Affairs Society.

Julie is currently Head of Business Environment Strategy at Department for International Trade (DIT), British Embassy Beijing.

Dr Thomas Warren – BA (Hons), MA and PhD International Relations graduate

"I have a passion for both research and teaching, which I harnessed during my time at �鶹��ý. The ability to extend the frontiers of knowledge while enthusing the next generation of students is a constant high for me."

Dr Thomas Warren shares his experiences studying international relations at the �鶹��ý