International Relations

Entry requirements

A first or second class honours degree in a relevant subject or equivalent.

All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

In the post-Cold War globalising world there is a growing need for more sophisticated ways of understanding the dramatic changes taking place in states and societies. This programme is designed to address this need, providing you with advanced training in the analysis of international relations theory and practice.

Our International Relations MA develops your critical consideration of traditional approaches to the discipline. You gain a deeper understanding of international relations, along with a more critical understanding of the way that international affairs is best studied. The programme provides you with an ideal platform from which to enter employment, or to continue your studies.

You take two compulsory modules, ‘Philosophy and Methodology of Politics and International Relations’ and ‘International Relations Theory’, which provide a solid basis for your studies. You also choose from a comprehensive suite of modules according to your specific interests, including international security, conflict resolution, terrorism and negotiation and mediation.

The University of Kent has long been a centre of excellence for the study of the subject, which has been a core concern of the university since its establishment in 1965. Kent counts among its staff world leading authorities in the fields of area and regional studies, conflict analysis, security studies, international relations theory and international ethics.

The MA in International Relations is one of the largest graduate programmes in the School of Politics and International Relations, and each year attracts a diverse student body from around the world.

Information for international students

Please see our International website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, international fee-paying students cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.

English language entry requirements

The University requires all non-native speakers of English to reach a minimum standard of proficiency in written and spoken English before beginning a postgraduate degree. Certain subjects require a higher level.

For detailed information see our English language requirements web pages.

Need help with English?

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.

Fees and funding

Please visit our funding web pages for the most current opportunities and application details.