Introduction
This programme of study is designed to provide a comprehensive grounding in the disciplinary and academic skills central to the study of International Relations. The course consists of two elements, both of which allow a degree of specialisation in the student’s chosen field.
Part one consists of research-led taught modules, including core courses in Issues in International Relations and Research Methods and Skills, and a choice of specialist option courses, in areas such as EU Foreign Policy; Human Rights; US Foreign Policy; International Political Economy; Ethics and International Affairs; Security, Popular Culture and World Politics; International law; Diplomacy and French Foreign Policy.
Part two requires the researching and writing of a dissertation supervised by an expert in the field. Available areas for dissertation supervision include International Theory; European Security and Foreign Policy; International Security; Development; Political Economy; French Foreign Policy; American Foreign Policy; Anglo-American Relations; Humanitarian Intervention; Human Rights; International Law and United Nations Studies.
Throughout the programme, students will be introduced to the nature of research at this demanding level, primarily through the taught course in research methods and skills, and subsequently in their relationship with an academic supervisor who will help them bring their chosen programme of research to fruition.
Course Aims
To offer knowledge and expertise in International Law, Human Rights, Security, Foreign Policy Studies, International Political Economy, Global Governance, Ethics & International Affairs and Area Studies, as well as research skills.
Special Features
A thorough grounding in generic and transferable skills that will equip students for careers in a wide variety of occupations which require competence in computer and information retrieval.
Available Modules
American Foreign Policy
Anglo-American Relations
European Economic Governance And Policies
European Political Economy
European Security
European Union External Relations
Global Climate Governance
Human Rights & Global Justice
International Legal & Political Affairs
International Security & Transnational Threats
Issues in International Relations
Just War and Humanitarian Intervention
Public International Law
Research Methods: Approaches To Knowledge
State Crisis – Changing Governance In Italy
Popular Culture and World Politics
Skills Acquired
Research and generic skills
Presentation skills
Data collection and analysis
Career Prospects
Graduates from this programme have found employment in a variety of fields, including government and diplomatic service, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), media and international organisations. A number of our graduates have gone on to pursue PhDs and further research. The course is also useful as a general qualification for careers such as teaching, banking, and commerce.
Admissions criteria
Suitable for graduates who normally possess a 2:1 degree classification in International Relations, Politics, English, Modern Languages, History, Religious Studies, Geography, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Social Policy and Journalism.
Applicants whose first language is not English must obtain an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with 6.5 in writing and 6.0 in all other components, or an equivalent English language qualification.
Early application is strongly advised, normally well before the end of July. Later applications will be considered, but international students must bear in mind the time needed to obtain a visa.
Cardiff University Masters Excellence Scheme
This course is included in the Masters Excellence Scholarship 2015 (Pathway to PhD) scheme. If you are looking at applying for a Masters degree with the intention of going on to study at PhD level then you are eligible to apply for this scholarship. The application will ask you to consider your research area and future sources of funding. It is recognised, however, that in making this application there is not a commitment to undertake further study or to undertake further studies at Cardiff University. Similarly, in making an award, Cardiff University is not committing to making an offer for further study or for a further award.
Tuition Fees
Full-time
UK and EU students: £8,450
Students from outside the EU: £18,200
Part-time
UK and EU students: £4,225/year
Students from outside the EU: £9,100/year
