Masters in International Relations in UK - Best Institutes, Fees, & Scholarships

If it is your long-cherished dream to pursue Masters in International Relations UK, this blog post could be your great help. Yes, this comprehensive guide will help you choose not only the best universities in the UK, but also help you get information on scholarships, tuition fees, eligibility, and other important things. 

MA International Relations is a popular choice for those aspirants who look to delve into the complex as well as the interconnected world of politics, global issues, economics, international relations, and diplomacy. The United Kingdom is one of the most trusted destinations for international students seeking an advanced understanding of the course – MA International Relations and Global Affairs. The UK is the best place to study this subject because of its rich academic history, diverse culture, and strategic global positioning.

This blog explores the numerous advantages of studying International Relations courses in the UK, eligibility criteria required for the best universities, top universities/colleges offering these MA programs, course details, average tuition fees, career opportunities, available scholarships for international students, and the ROI for prospective students. Let’s explore!

Why Study a Master in International Relations in the UK?

World Renowned Institute: The UK is a destination of some world’s renowned institutes known for academic excellence in almost all major subjects. Top Universities that offer Masters in International Relations UK follow rigorous academic standards and innovative research in global issues, international relations, and its related fields. Oxford, Edinburgh, Cambridge, and Trinity, are some of the revered Universities ranked top in the world for their exceptional education, training, and research. 

Expert Faculty & Diverse Curriculum: Top Universities/Colleges in the UK attract a diverse pool of experienced faculty from all across the globe who are leading experts in their fields. Many experienced professors are involved in cutting-edge research, policy advising, and diplomatic service. They are published authors as well. They provide students with up-to-date insights into current International Relations. The curriculum is sometimes broad, covering various areas such as international security, global crisis and governance, human rights, and international laws, and more, thus allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Cultural Exposure: Many best universities for Masters in International Relations in UK have strong connections with international organizations, top think tanks, and governmental organizations. Thus, offering students adequate changes to networking and internships.

Networking Opportunities: Studying in the United Kingdom provides you with numerous exposure to a multicultural environment, and international perspectives, and fosters deeper exposure. 

Strategic Location: The geographical location of the United Kingdom, and its historical ties to other countries across the world made it a strategic hot-stop for studying MA International Relations and Global Affairs. The UK offers access to major political as well as economic centers and events, which can give ample opportunities and advantages to students looking to pursue careers in international diplomacy, global affairs, policy-making, or international business.

Top Institutes for Master’s in International Relations - UK

1. Oxford University: Oxford’s department of global affairs, and international politics is renowned across the globe. Oxford offers an MA in International Relations and Global Affairs program that emphasizes research-driven learning as well as theoretical grounding.

2. University of Cambridge: Cambridge University well-known for its rigorous academic curriculum, multicultural environment, and bespoke research exposures. The University offers an MA and MPhil in International Relations, global affairs, and public policies. This course focuses on critical thinking and policy analysis.
3. London School of Economics and Political Science: LSE offers highly Master in International Relations in the UK program for its focus on the theoretical, empirical, as well as practical aspects of global relations. The course strongly emphasizes social science, international relations, and research methods.
4. King’s College London: This popular institute offers a unique MA degree in global affairs and International Relations that combines studies in global conflict, defense, and security with traditional human rights theory.
5. University of Edinburgh: The University of Edinburgh’s Master's degree in International Relations and Global dispute resolution provides a comprehensive understanding of global political systems as well as theories, with massive opportunities for students to specialize in areas, like human rights, global dispute resolution, and international political economy.

MA In International Relations: Course Details

Masters in International Relations UK typically span 1 year of full-time study. The curriculum is rigorous and is divided into core and elective modules.

The Core modules of International Relations MA might include topics such as:

• Methods and Theories of Global Relations 
• Political Economy of the World
• International Organizations, dispute resolutions, and global governance
• Global security studies
• International laws and human rights

The elective courses of International Relations allow students to specialize in areas of their interests, such as regional studies, global dispute resolutions, foreign policy and analysis, environmental politics, etc. The courses sometimes culminate in a research project, thus providing you with ample opportunity to undergo in-depth research on the topic of your choice.

Average Course Fees 

The average cost of studying an MA/MSc/Masters in International Relations UK varies on the institute you choose or the duration you opt for (full-time or part-time). The fee is around 15000 to 30000 GBP annually for international students. For instance,

• University of Oxford: Around GBP 27,460 per year for international students.
• LSE (London School of Economics): The fees would be around 25000 GBP per year or more for international students. 
• University of Edinburgh: About GBP 23,000 per year for international students.

Additionally, the average tuition fees, international students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses, which can vary significantly depending on the city you live in and the lifestyle you follow. 

Jobs/Career Prospects

Masters in International Relations UK will open the door to a global career and unlimited growth.  MA graduates in IR sometimes pursue careers in:

• Diplomacy and Foreign Service
• International Organizations
• Non-Governmental Organization
• Think Tanks and Research Institutes
• Private Sector and Consultancy

Masters in International Relations scholarships

Many top universities in the United Kingdom and external organizations offer a range of scholarships/financial aid to help international students finance their studies.

Some notable scholarships are:

• Chevening Scholarships – amount – GBP 30000 per year
• Commonwealth Scholarships – amount – 15000 per year
• University-specific Scholarships – amount - GBP 30000 per year

Return on Investment

Investing in a Master's in International Relations in the UK can provide you with a significant return. You will also get a rewarding career, both financially and professionally. Various data and sources showed that graduates in IR from the UK are often highly demanding in the global job market, some of them command more competitive salaries than other graduates. For instance, a graduate in international relations MA or MSc entering a diplomatic career or in an international organization of repute can expect a starting salary ranging from GBP 30,000 to GBP 50,000, depending on the skills, knowledge, role, and location.

There are a few related courses to MA/MSc in international relations, which you can try if you have any problem pursuing this program in the UK. Some of the courses are given hereunder. 

• Masters in Peace and conflict studies
• Masters in human rights
• Masters in public policy
• Masters in Global politics
• Masters in international security 

To Conclude

Master in International Relations UK is not only a degree but also a global credential. An MA/MSc in International Relations is a gateway to a myriad of lucrative career opportunities across the world. The United Kingdom’s strong global networks as well as alumni associations provide graduates in IR lifelong advantages and support, thus, offering continued assistance and opportunities throughout his/her career.

With world-class education, bespoke support, diverse cultural experiences, and robust career exposures, the United Kingdom remains a hub for international students aspiring to make a mark in the field of international relations, global conflicts, human rights, international disputes and resolutions, and so forth. If you aim to become a diplomat, a human rights professional, a policy advisor, or a global leader in international affairs, studying Masters in International Relations UK can provide the foundation you need to attain your professional objectives.

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