Introduction
Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, information about courses starting in September 2021 may be subject to change. We continue to improve your teaching and learning experience so you gain skills and understanding which are valuable to you and sought after by employers.
Before you apply for a course, please check the website for the most recently published course detail. If you apply to the University of Bath, you will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
Deepen your knowledge of international relations and the dimensions of political interactions. Gain the skills to pursue an international career in administration, diplomacy, policy formation or research.
The course explores contemporary European politics and societies and has a distinctive focus on European policies and policy-making and on Europe's role in the international system. You'll study the interplay of multi-level governance between European and national institutions, as well as between the EU and the multilateral system.
The MA in International Relations and European Politics provides you with:
the training to pursue international careers in administration, diplomacy, policy formation and research
the opportunity to study in an internationally diverse postgraduate community
an enthusiastic and approachable teaching team
a clear geographical perspective on international relations
a solid analytical framework with a unique blend of theory and empirical analysis
insight into contemporary international relations and the dimensions of political interactions
This course is suited to those with an interest in contemporary world affairs and a degree in a relevant subject such as European studies, international relations, modern languages, politics, history, economics or sociology. It's a highly relevant course if you're interested in, or already working in the field of commerce, trade, industry, teaching or government at the interplay of EU government, institutions and world politics.
Course structure
This course lasts 1 year. It starts in September 2021 and ends in 2022. Welcome week starts on 27 September 2021.
Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
Compulsory course units
These compulsory units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.
Semester 1
Comparative European politics
International relations theories
Scopes and methods of politics and international relations
Plus two optional units
Semester 2
Five optional units
Summer
MA in International Relations and European Politics dissertation
Optional course units
These optional units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.
Semester 1
European union politics and policy-making
Societal modernisation and the transformation of democracy
International terrorism and counter-terrorism
International security: theories and concepts
Memory culture - memory politics
Foreign policy analysis
Governance, security and development in East and South-East Asia
The global politics of cyberspace
Gender Theory
The politics of gender inequality
Semester 2
Organised crime in Europe: threats and challenges
International security: the contemporary agenda
Britain and Europe
International organisations in world politics
International relations of South and Central Asia
Economic foreign policy and the international trade regime
Theories of conflict and conflict resolution
The politics of risk
Russian politics in comparative perspective
Gender and transitional justice
Gender, peace and security
Gender, political behaviour and representation
Learning and assessment
Learning
Lectures
Online resources
Practical sessions
Seminars
Tutorials
Workshops
Assessment
Attendance
Coursework
Dissertation
Essay
Oral assessment
Practical work
Seminar
Other
Recognition of professional qualifications
As well as being recognised as a higher academic qualification, a number of our degrees are also accredited by professional bodies in the United Kingdom. An accredited degree may entitle you to work in a specific profession within the UK, and abroad (where there are reciprocating arrangements with professional bodies in other countries).
The requirements to practise a profession vary from country to country. If you wish to practise your profession outside the United Kingdom, you are advised to confirm that the UK professional qualification you seek is valid in the country in which you are intending to work.
Entry requirements
British qualifications
You should have a bachelor’s honours degree or international equivalent, typically a 2:1 or above.
To apply for this course you should have an undergraduate degree in an appropriate subject such as European Studies, International Relations, Modern Languages, Politics, History, Economics or Sociology.
We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree.
If your first language is not English but within the last 2 years you completed your degree in the UK you may be exempt from our English language requirements.
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components
If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.
Fees and funding
Home tuition fees: £10,000
Overseas tuition fees: £21,500
Extra costs
There is a course deposit of £250 payable upon receipt of an offer of a place to study. You can pay this through the online store.
How to pay
Tuition fee loans
If you are studying a postgraduate course, you may be able to take out a loan for your tuition fees and living costs.
Scholarships and bursaries
You could be considered for a bursary or scholarship to help you study at Bath. You do not have to pay it back.
Other payment options
You can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card, cheque, bank transfer or cash. You may also be eligible for a student loan to help you pay your fees.
Budgeting
As well as the cost of books, you will also need to cover the cost of scanning and photocopying. You should budget at least £100 for this.
Some courses involve engagement away from the University campus, and you may be required to pay some or all of the costs for these optional events.
