International Relations and Security MA
About this course
International security is a complex and rapidly evolving concern for many organisations, institutions and governments. From global climate emergency to the increased threats from terrorist groups, the risks these treats pose to many long-established security policies have led to a rapid development in the field of Security Studies.
This course gives you a critical approach to complex security problems and enables you to understand them at a global level of analysis. You will be given the chance to develop an in-depth knowledge of security policies, their challenges, and the interconnected nature of threats.
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Study in the heart of Nottingham
One of Europe’s top 25 student cities, and home to over 75,000 learners.
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Learn from the experts
at a university rated TEF ‘Gold’ for teaching and learning.
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Tailor your learning
Choose from a range of optional modules to focus on areas that align with your interests.
What you’ll study
Core modules
Approaches and Issues in International Security
This module discusses the key concepts that will help you understand and critically analyse contemporary global security issues. We cover both traditional and critical theoretical discussions in security. We also analyse some of the key themes in contemporary Security Studies such as peacekeeping, peacebuilding, mediation and other conflict resolution tools.
International Relations Theory
The purpose of this module is to introduce you to the range of approaches in international theory. Within International Relations theory there are many varied interpretations and applications of key concepts (e.g. power, the state, agency, structure, and world order) as well as contested views about the practical purpose underpinning theories of world politics. This module gives you the opportunity to explore the key tenets of the major theories of international relations and secondly will encourage you to critically analyse your assumptions and ideological baggage
Issues and Methods in Social Research
The aim of this module is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and methods of social research. You will interrogate key methodological debates regarding the production of knowledge and develop an understanding of a range of research designs and methods. You will also develop a range of skills, enabling you to apply your knowledge to the conduct of research. The module will therefore prepare you for carrying out research for your Dissertation, Work-based Dissertation and Policy Lab modules.
SPS (Social and Political Sciences) Dissertation
The content of this module is different from others due to the nature of the exercise it entails. In many ways the dissertation is the culmination of your knowledge, skills and abilities gained throughout the academic year. Whilst ultimately it will entail a sustained independent engagement with a topic of your choice, regular supervision will be provided to help your research during the planning, preparation, and writing-up process.
The module is supported by a number of workshops which will allow you to develop your ability to design, carry out and present research of a high standard. The workshops will also help you to think about specific research projects and receive formative feedback on your work. Dissertation topics should fall within the overall remit of the courses. The course teams will assist you in negotiating an appropriate topic. The dissertation should demonstrate research skills in a particular context, identifying a problem which is of interest in your discipline, and analysing that problem.
You will also choose one of the following optional modules:*
Negotiating in International Contexts
This module focuses on strengthening your negotiation and diplomacy skills. It is for those interested in developing their diplomatic and negotiation skills as well as their ability to form reasoned arguments and speak confidently in public. The module is centred around a simulation of EU decision-making. The best students will then have a chance to participate in the prestigious, annual international EuroSim competition held in either the US or Europe, or any other extracurricular simulation activity (for example Model UN).
Diplomacy, Foreign Policy and Security
The aim of this module is to compliment the first term IR Theory module which provides you with the ability to consider international issues from a macro theoretical perspective. In contrast, the Diplomacy, Foreign Policy, and Security module will consider international political and security issues from the point of view of foreign policy processes and diplomatic method. The module provides you with an opportunity to explore global security challenges through various micro-theoretical perspectives offered by the International Relations subfields of Foreign Policy Analysis and Diplomacy.
Service Learning
This module provides the opportunity to link with social and civic organisations seeking to make a difference on a wide range of contemporary social issues as a public sociologist. Through dedicated service learning projects, you will apply your sociological imagination to issues in the civic sphere, work with practitioners, academics, and community members to propose and test solutions to some of the challenges those groups face.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
Q&A - Politics, International Relations, Security and Public Policy Masters courses
How you're taught
The course is delivered through traditional lectures and seminars and complex role-playing of international institution negotiations exercises. Other teaching methods include project-based work, presentations and discussions. You'll have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops and joint work with students of other postgraduate courses.
You'll benefit from our Student-Centred Active Learning Environment with Upside-Down Pedagogies (SCALE-UP), where learning is done through problem-solving, sharing ideas, giving and receiving feedback and peer-to-peer teaching.
Assessment methods
Assessment on the course involves coursework, conducting your own research piece, individual and group class presentations and a reflective assessment. To encourage and facilitate independent learning the course will take full advantage of NTU's online workspace (NOW).
An active research environment
Teaching on the course is drawn directly from regionally aligned research strengths in the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, the Indian sub-continent, and Europe. This research feeds directly into the course allowing you to learn about the latest issues in this field from world-renowned experts.
In-sessional English language support
In-sessional English language support classes are available to all international (non-EU) students studying degree courses at NTU. There is no extra charge for these classes.
Contact hours
You will have around 8-10 hours per week of contact time (lectures, seminars and workshops). Approximately 90% of this teaching is in person. Overall, contact time makes up around 30% of a full-time week, while the remaining 70% of your time will be devoted to independent study.
Careers and employability
As a graduate of this course, you'll have had the opportunity to reflect on the subject and transferable skills you have learnt while preparing coursework. These include expertise in writing complex, yet concise, analytical pieces, developing and implementing projects, diplomatic and negotiation skills, and the ability to present in-depth ideas with confidence. You'll also be encouraged to articulate these skills in relation to particular occupations that you may be interested in pursuing.
This course focuses on developing the following skills: analysis, communication, time management, team-working, problem-solving, and IT / modern technologies. Each module in this course is designed to engage students in developing these skills, which often form part of assessed assignments. Moreover, private sector businesses are increasingly looking for graduates with an understanding of policy-making and implementation, institutions, and processes.
You may also seek an internship and / or a placement during the summer months, you will be assisted by the course team to help you find relevant roles.
Graduates from this course are ready to undertake a wide range of careers and professions. Previous graduates from within the Department of Politics and International Relations have gone on to work in relevant government departments as well as joined international aid and development agencies.
Employability team
Our expert Employability team will work closely with you at every stage of your career planning, providing personal support and advice. You can benefit from this service at any time during your studies, and for up to three years after completing your course. Find out more about the service.
Campus and facilities
You’ll mainly be studying in the Chaucer and Newton buildings, at the centre of our vibrant City Campus. As well as a range of classrooms and lecture theatres, the facilities including a mock prison cell, banks of open-access PCs, social spaces for either quiet study or busy group work.
NTU’s City Campus has everything you’ll need to stay busy between lectures. As well as the Boots Library and its beautiful roof garden, there’s our stylish Students’ Union building and two-storey, 100-station gym; a whole host of cafés, bars, restaurants and food outlets for every taste; our much-loved Global Lounge; performance and rehearsal spaces for musicians; and much, much more!
Take a few steps off campus and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. It’s stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure. Enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.
Take our virtual tour to get a real feel for the campus.
Entry requirements
UK students
Applying with prior qualifications
You will need an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK undergraduate honours degree (normally 2.2 or above). If you hold a first degree but it doesn't meet the entry requirements above, please refer to the information below.
Applying with non-standard entry qualifications/experience
Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. You will be required to demonstrate how your experiences and knowledge would enable you to study this course at Masters-level in your Personal Statement.
No references are required when applying for this course.
Additional requirements for UK students
There are no additional requirements for this course.
Other qualifications and experience
We welcome applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds and work experience. We consider credit transfer, vocational and professional qualifications, and any work or life experience you may have.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form.
International students
Academic entry requirements: 2.2 honours degree or equivalent qualification. We accept equivalent qualifications from all over the world. Please check your international entry requirements by country.
Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. You will be required to demonstrate how your experiences and knowledge would enable you to study this course at Masters-level in your Personal Statement.
English language requirements: See our English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.
Additional requirements for international students
If you need help achieving the academic entry requirements, we offer a Pre-Masters course for this degree. The course is offered through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC) based on our City campus.
English language requirements
View our English language requirements for all courses, including alternative English language tests and country qualifications accepted by the University.
If you need help achieving the language requirements, we offer a Pre-Sessional English for Academic Purposes course on our City campus which is an intensive preparation course for academic study at NTU.
Other qualifications and experience
We welcome applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds and work experience. We consider credit transfer, vocational and professional qualifications, and any work or life experience you may have.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
Sign up for emails
Sign up to receive regular emails from the International Office. You'll hear about our news, scholarships and any upcoming events in your country with our expert regional teams.
Getting in touch
If you need advice about studying at NTU as an international student or how to apply, our international webpages are a great place to start. If you have any questions about your study options, your international qualifications, experience, grades or other results, please get in touch through our enquiry form. Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world.
Policies
We strive to make our admissions procedures as fair and clear as possible. To find out more about how we make offers, visit our admissions policies page.
