International Relations

Early on in the International Relations program at Brunel University of London, you will have a choice between two topics: International Security which will look at the main concepts and models within the subject as well as its issues and policies, or International Political Economy which considers topics like globalisation, financial liberation and economic growth.

In keeping with the importance Brunel places on getting you ready for work, this International Relations degree course offered by Brunel University of London includes the rare option of a work placement – 6-12 weeks of professional practice that takes place between May and September in an organisation with an international dimension to its mission.

Key Facts

Once your knowledge, understanding and analytical skills have grown in International Relations , you will choose a further two additional optional modules which cover democracy, migrant law, post-war world affairs, security in the middle east, and geopolitics. Finally, a research project of your choice under the guidance of a dissertation supervisor completes the course.

Other opportunities to network and build knowledge include the option to take up membership with Chatham House, the leading British think tank on international affairs. Benefits include access to library and archive materials as well as regular events.

Graduates of the International Relations MA, go to pursue careers in a wide range of organisations, including government, international institutions, non-governmental organisations, business, research institutes and security, or further study at doctoral level.

Careers and your future

Our students have had great success in seeking employment once they have completed their course. Many have come from, and then continue to work for, government agencies in the UK and abroad -we have taught police, military, and other government officials from the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Finland, Norway, Belgium, Turkey, Japan, Jordan, the Philippines, Brunei, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea, Botswana and several other nations beside.

Within the UK, students with no service experience have gone on to work for the British Security Service, the Metropolitan Police Counter-Terrorism Centres, the Serious Organised Crime Agency, and other departments of government.

Many students have noted to us that the innovative studies they undertook on our program were important topics of discussion in their interviews. Those already in Government employment have successfully used their MAs to leverage promotion or commissioning.

Courses include:

• Evolution of International Relations

• Democracy and Intervention

• International Security

• International Political Economy

• China and Contemporary Geopolitics

• The United States in World Affairs, 1945-2001

• Middle East Security