Online programme
MA International Relations: Security and Development (Online)
Advance your global career with our online masters in International Relations. Prepare for leadership in government, NGOs, and global agencies while gaining applied expertise in international security and development.
Specialise in security and economic development
This isn’t your average international relations course but focuses on both security and development. This includes economic diplomacy such as dealing with the increased use of tariffs and protectionist instruments.
Bespoke by design
This isn’t a traditional course simply moved online – it’s been thoughtfully designed to make the most of digital learning, creating a rich, interactive experience that fits around your life and career.
Campus-quality experience delivered online
Study flexibly at your own pace while staying connected through live, interactive sessions with field experts and a global student community. With recorded lectures, podcasts, guided reading and student forums, you’ll get the support and inspiration of an on-campus programme, online.
Details
Overview
Elevate your professional profile with transferable skills and applied policy expertise to tackle today’s security and development challenges. Master research analysis, methodologies and strategic competencies, while sharpening negotiation and communication skills to navigate complex cultural and geopolitical landscapes. Your dissertation will define your expertise in your chosen field.
Designed for flexibility, this programme combines interactive weekly tutorials, independent study and live sessions led by passionate academic experts. With an online MA, you can connect with a global network of peers and expand your horizons, wherever you are.
Year 1
The programme takes an interdisciplinary approach to International Relations combining different social science and public policy perspectives. The programme lasts two years and there are four thematic modules on Global Governance, Strategy and Security Studies, Economic Diplomacy and Development, and Regional Geopolitics. You do one module at a time, working through the material and tasks each week including a webinar with the module tutor.
Core modules
IRLO7001J
Global Governance
30 credits
This module considers concepts of global governance and provides the foundations for the application of contemporary international relations theories to questions of world order and global governance. It will cover the many varieties of international cooperation, including institutional forms as well as policy case studies such as economics, development and environmental politics.
100% Coursework
IRLO7002
Strategy and Security Studies
30 credits
This module analyses the security challenges of the 21st Century. The broadening security agenda and increased interdependence has brought a large number of issues under the purview of security practitioners. As a result, it has become less clear where the boundaries of responsibility lie and what should be prioritised. The module examines how we can identify the most important risks and threats.
100% Coursework
IRLO7001
Global Governance
30 credits
This module considers concepts of global governance and provides the foundations for the application of contemporary international relations theories to questions of world order and global governance. It will cover the many varieties of international cooperation, including institutional forms as well as policy case studies such as economics, development and environmental politics.
100% Coursework
IRLO7004
Regional Geopolitics
30 credits
This module introduces the students to the study of International Relations in key global regions of strategic importance such as the Middle East, Europe and East Asia. It will look at the internal political and geopolitical dynamics of these regions (including the historical and contemporary context) and analyse the roles of key actors. Students will have the option to apply the analytical methods to other regions if they so desire.
100% Coursework
Year 2
In your second year, you’ll take a Regional Geopolitics module and complete a dissertation that lets you specialise in your chosen field — whether security, environmental cooperation, or another area — shaping your expertise and professional identity.
Core modules
IRLO7004
Regional Geopolitics
30 credits
This module introduces the students to the study of International Relations in key global regions of strategic importance such as the Middle East, Europe and East Asia. It will look at the internal political and geopolitical dynamics of these regions (including the historical and contemporary context) and analyse the roles of key actors. Students will have the option to apply the analytical methods to other regions if they so desire.
100% Coursework
IRLO7005J
MA Dissertation on Security and Development
60 credits
This module provides MA students with the opportunity to demonstrate their research skills. It requires the design and production of a substantial dissertation in the field of Global Security and Development in which the aims and objectives of the dissertation and an evaluation of the methodology are specified.
100% Coursework
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Careers
This programme is made for the working world, and the skills you learn can enable you to work in a variety of areas in the public or private sector. This includes international organisations, government, civil society, security, communications, corporate responsibility and consultancy.
Furthermore, this masters will qualify you to do doctoral research.
What I valued most about the programme was the emphasis on critical thinking, which allowed me to engage with complex global issues from diverse perspectives. The curriculum not only broadened my understanding of international relations but also equipped me with the analytical skills necessary to advance in academia and the development sector.
Nadra Mousa
Strategic Development and Partnership Associate at a media and communication company
Strategic Development and Partnership Associate at a media and communication company
MA International Relations: Security and Development graduate
The programme was instrumental in enhancing my understanding as it covered a wide scope of issues significant to my everyday tasks and duties. It further prepared me to be able to critically analyse, write and present global issues from an informed perspective.
Tlhalefo Batsile Madisa
Senior Diplomat
Senior Diplomat
MA International Relations: Security and Development graduate
Research-informed teaching
This programme was designed by leading, research-active academics. Led by
Dr Patrick Holden
, a renowned expert in the field who has worked with a variety of policy-makers including from the EU and OECD, you’ll learn the very latest in international relations, security and development.
You’ll also have access to the
International Relations Research Seminar Series
that plays a critical role in encouraging the exchange of ideas among our scholarly community and provide students with the opportunity to hear about the research being conducted by °µÍø½âÃÜ academics as well as scholars from different universities in the UK and internationally.
Dr Patrick Holden
Associate Professor (Reader)
Programme Lead
Dr Elizabeth Cobbett
Honorary Researcher
Dr Shabnam Holliday
Associate Professor in International Relations
This programme offers a robust academic and practical foundation, guided by experts who are not only insightful but also passionate about their fields and truly care about their students.
John Mary Odoy
Political Consultant and Elections Observer
Political Consultant and Elections Observer
MA International Relations: Security and Development graduate
Online experience
Studying a postgraduate degree online with the °µÍø½âÃÜ offers more than just a qualification — it’s an opportunity to explore your subject in depth, challenge your thinking, and grow both personally and professionally.
Our flexible, fully online programmes are designed to fit around your life, with options for part-time study and multiple start dates, so you can balance learning with your personal and professional commitments. You'll benefit from expert teaching, a collaborative virtual learning environment, and access to a welcoming, supportive student community — all from wherever you are.
Whether you’re continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, °µÍø½âÃÜ’s online learning experience gives you the space, structure and inspiration to thrive — on your terms.
Curious about our campus? Each cohort will get the opportunity to visit °µÍø½âÃÜ to attend a workshop as well as meet the academic staff and other students.
This masters has opened up my understanding and analytical way of thinking about the world. It has also helped me develop my diplomatic skills in my current job.
Vanessa Simon
International Project Assistant, Middle East
International Project Assistant, Middle East
MA International Relations: Security and Development graduate
Your °µÍø½âÃÜ community – wherever you are
As an online student at the °µÍø½âÃÜ, you’re still a full member of our vibrant student community. You’ll have access to a wide range of support services, online events, virtual student societies, and wellbeing resources, all designed to keep you connected and supported throughout your studies.
Being online doesn’t mean being alone. From joining national student networks and online clubs to accessing academic support and virtual meet-ups, there are plenty of ways to get involved and stay connected.
You’re part of the °µÍø½âÃÜ community — wherever you’re studying from — so take advantage of everything that’s available to you.
Join our global community
At the °µÍø½âÃÜ, you’ll be part of a vibrant international community of more than 2,000 students from over 100 countries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to achieve your goals and make the most of your time studying in the UK.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Part-time study
£5,330 per annum (90 credits)
£5,330 per annum (90 credits)
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Part-time study
£5,330 per annum (90 credits)
£5,330 per annum (90 credits)
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at °µÍø½âÃÜ, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for °µÍø½âÃÜ graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at °µÍø½âÃÜ, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Apply
Entry requirements
To apply for this masters programme, you should normally hold a second-class (2:2) UK honours degree — or equivalent — in international relations, politics, or a related discipline. Alternatively, an appropriate professional or academic qualification considered equivalent by the University may also be accepted.
Related disciplines included (but are not limited to) the following: development studies, economics, public policy, history, geography, cultural studies, law, philosophy, sociology, psychology, anthropology, business studies, modern languages, English literature, media studies and communications.
If you have relevant professional experience — mid- to senior-level roles in the public sector, third sector, or international organisations — you may be considered for entry via interview.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
2 years
Course type
Part-time Distance learning
Study location
Online
Online
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the °µÍø½âÃÜ or
through an agent
in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
2 years
Course type
Part-time Distance learning
Study location
Online
Online
Other routes to this course
If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the
°µÍø½âÃÜ International College (UPIC)
.