Security, Peace-Building and Diplomacy

Entry requirements

An honours degree (2:2 or above) or equivalent overseas qualification in a wide range of subjects.

Months of entry

January, October

Course content

Do you want to work on the frontline of global security and relations between nations? Join our MSc Security, Peace-building and Diplomacy to develop specialist knowledge for a career with lasting impact.

The world is facing immense security challenges – not only in terms of conflict and terrorism but also around issues like climate change, food security, biosecurity and geoeconomics. International relations and peace-building play a key role in developing multi-layered resilient communities and nations, and are vital in the quest for sustainable peace.

On this course, you’ll examine the relationships between development and peace-building, civil-military relations, cyber security and the wider global security context in which politics, trading and conflicts occur. It’ll set you up for a meaningful career with a focus on positive change.

Examine and learn from real-world, real-time issues

Decoding past and current challenges, approaches and developments, you'll gain a broad view of the field while developing a critical, analytical and holistic mindset.

Explore topics like the global south and international development, the changing world order, the politics of violence and the role of non-state actors, including global cities, in diplomacy. You’ll access first-hand insights from experts engaged in on-the-ground government, human rights and charity work to prepare you for the realities of the field.

There's a focus on practical skills too, across negotiation, policy-making and communication. Based in London, you’ll be in the heart of global diplomatic and security activity – the ideal place to network and explore collaborative study opportunities.

A future-focused career with global reach

Specialist knowledge of peace-building, international relations and global security issues will open doors to a wide range of careers.

You could pursue roles in foreign policy making, the civil service, NGOs, peace-building, media, the armed forces, or local or national government. Whatever pathway interests you most, you’ll be well placed to make a difference in this urgent, dynamic field.

Why you should study this degree

• Study the relationship between diplomacy and international security, and see how changes in the world are presenting challenges and risks for democratic societies.
• Learn how diplomacy is shaping key developments around the world, and how digital and political transformations affect the way diplomacy is practised.
• Access and engage with the latest research addressing global security, extremism and foreign policy.
• Understand how diplomacy can be used to bring about sustainable peace.
• Examine how state and non-state actors respond to security challenges and conflict, and what we can learn from the past to deal with future issues.
• Study in London, home to 165 Embassies and High Commissions and some of the world’s most important think tanks and NGOs.
• Explore the role of digital transformation in international relations and security.

Information for international students

English Language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each subtest (Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking) or equivalent.

Fees and funding

Visit the website for funding information.