MA International Relations and Diplomacy
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Year of entry
2024/25 -
Course duration
Full Time: 12 months Part Time: 24 months
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Year of entry
2024/25 -
Course duration
Full Time: 12 months Part Time: 24 months
Gain an appreciation of the complex and contested nature of international politics and diplomatic interactions.
On our MA International Relations and Diplomacy course, you’ll learn how to think critically about various political institutions, actors, ideas and events. This will enable you to apply theories to a range of empirical cases from around the world.
You'll examine diverse approaches, questioning your viewpoints to understand the significance of culture within the subject. You’ll also gain an understanding of current problems faced by policymakers in government departments, international organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Recognised for research quality
Our academics in the Department of Politics and International Relations regularly feature in academic literature and the media, offering their expertise on current issues. Learn more about how we engage in real-world politics.
97% of our research outputs are rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, meaning that the University of Reading is 6th highest in the UK for research outputs (Times Higher Education analysis of the latest REF 2021 – Politics and International Studies, when scoring by GPA Output).
On this course, you’ll learn through discussion, interactive group work, presentations and simulations.
Be the diplomat
Benefit from regular input of current and former diplomats and undertake a range of practical policy-oriented exercises and assessments. These allow you to ‘be the diplomat’ and provide you with key employability skills.
Small-group teaching
Interactive small-group teaching is central to the MA International Relations and Diplomacy programme. Your voice will be heard and valued in these sessions, allowing you to engage in rich discussion with lecturers and peers.
As you move through the programme, you’ll become an increasingly independent learner.
Guided independent study
You’ll receive methods training that enables you to conduct an independent research project in the form of a dissertation.
You’ll also meet with your academic tutor regularly, to ensure you’re getting the best out of your time at Reading.
Tailor your degree
We offer a range of specialisms allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests. You can also choose modules run by other areas of the University, in subjects such as law, agriculture, policy and development, and modern languages. This gives you the flexibility to study a variety of topics or specialise in one area.
Guest speakers
We regularly invite guest speakers to deliver lectures, allowing you to gain insight into the different opportunities available to you after graduation and a chance to build your network.
Previous speakers include:
- John Bercow, former Speaker of the House of Commons
- Alastair Campbell, former political aide
- Dame Andrea Leadsom, former Leader of the House of Commons
- Sir Vince Cable, former Liberal Democrat Leader
- Matthew Barzun, former United States Ambassador to the UK.