International Security

Our MA in International Security is designed to expose students to a wide variety of case studies and theoretical perspectives whilst giving them plenty of opportunities to focus their assessments on the topics they are most interested in.

A rich variety of case studies of security threats and responses are covered, including nuclear weapons, terrorism, climate change, cyber threats and civil wars. Analysis is underpinned by thought-provoking engagement with cutting-edge theories in both traditional and critical security studies, as well as more broadly in war studies, peace studies and related areas. Topics covered include orthodox and critical understandings of security, intelligence, crisis management, ethical dilemmas, security in the global south, and urban warfare.

Assessment is designed to be policy-relevant. In particular, alongside more traditional essays and presentations, students get to practice and develop the skill of writing policy briefs. The dissertation also gives an opportunity to dig deeper into specific areas of interest.

Students also benefit from the opportunity to take part in extra-curricular activities such as numerous guest lectures and seminars delivered by researchers and practitioners and organised by Loughborough experts, including under the auspices of the Centre for Security Studies (CSS).

Who should study this programme?

Our MA International Security programme is designed to prepare you for a career in International Relations, Foreign Policy and Security. This is a practical and policy relevant degree which through innovative assessment methods encourages team work as well as creative individual tasks such as policy report writing. Students work on challengers set by sponsors in the MOD and also have the opportunity to take an Urban Warfare trip to Belfast and Derry.