This MA offers a fantastic opportunity for postgraduate students from across the world to join in and learn about contemporary debates on the meaning of security, democracy and the role of political processes in International Relations.
This MA programme offers a brilliant opportunity for you to enhance your career prospects by learning about international relations, academic methods and contemporary security debates.
One of the key characteristics of the programme is flexibility and choice, which allows you to pursue your own particular areas of interest through our optional pathways, which draw on the expert knowledge of staff in the Department of Politics i.e. International Relations and Security, Conflict Resolution and Political Communication.
The Department of Politics at the University of Liverpool has an internationally recognised expertise on topics of international relations and security. We have a unique combination of expertise in international relations theory, non-state actor violence and resolution of conflicts.
The department puts a strong emphasis on high quality teaching. Classroom seminars and lectures are designed interactively and centre around student engagement. Likewise teaching staff are passionate about making complicated matters of international relations accessible to students.
The MA is ideal for graduates in Politics studies or other social science degrees who want to increase their knowledge in international relations and contemporary security debates.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
The core modules are complemented by optional modules. You are free to choose optional modules at your own discretion. However, the programme design provides pathway suggestions (which are not mandatory) that recommend certain optional modules to ensure coherency in your studies. Each pathway is designed to complement the core modules, yet offers a unique additional specialisation and qualification. These pathways are:
Pathway I: International Relations and Security
This pathway would deepen you understanding on matters international relations and security discussed in the core modules.
Pathway II: Conflict Resolution
The conflict resolution pathway complements the discussions on conflict, violence and security in the core modules as it provides a deeper insight into conflict analysis and peaceful conflict solutions tools.
Pathway III: Political Communication
The political communications pathway provides an additional perspective on international politics by adding the role of media to the picture.
For more information on what optional modules would complement the above pathways please contact the programme lead.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THEORY AND EVIDENCE (POLI132) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The core modules are complemented by optional modules. You are free to choose optional modules at your own discretion. However, the programme design provides pathway suggestions (which are not mandatory) that recommend certain optional modules to ensure coherency in your studies. Each pathway is designed to complement the core modules, yet offers a unique additional specialisation and qualification. These pathways are:
Pathway I: International Relations and Security
This pathway would deepen you understanding on matters international relations and security discussed in the core modules.
Pathway II: Conflict Resolution
The conflict resolution pathway complements the discussions on conflict, violence and security in the core modules as it provides a deeper insight into conflict analysis and peaceful conflict solutions tools.
Pathway III: Political Communication
The political communications pathway provides an additional perspective on international politics by adding the role of media to the picture.
For more information on what optional modules would complement the above pathways please contact the programme lead.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH METHODS IN POLITICS (POLI116) | 15 |
| CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION (POLI131) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The dissertation (POLI119) is taken in the summer vacation period.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MASTERS DISSERTATION (POLI119) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching is mainly by 2-hour seminar, with some lecture input within the seminars. The seminars will constitute the primary forum by which key concepts, ideas and information will be communicated. You will also have the opportunity to discuss the content of the seminars during the office hours that are offered by all teaching staff.
The emphasis on seminars as a teaching tool reflects the belief among the teaching staff involved in the MA that this form of communicating knowledge is ideal for studying international relations at MA level. The seminar is intended to serve as a venue where the different debates and perspectives in the literature are closely examined by you and your peers.
Your independent study and research skills will be enhanced through your work developing a 12,000 – 15,000 word dissertation in a research subject of your choice, which is completed in the summer period at the end of your MA.
Methods of assessment on the MA are predominately via essays and presentations. There are some exam assessments in optional modules.
Your completed 12,000 – 15,000 word dissertation in a research subject of your choice makes up 60 credits (one third) of your final MA mark.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
You will benefit from the expertise and community found within the Department of Politics, which is based within the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures in 8-14 Abercromby Square. Students will be taught in a variety of building on campus.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
What I most enjoy about my course is being able to conduct independent studies on interesting subjects, which has deepened my knowledge. I really like the study environment here and appreciate being able to exchange ideas and engage in debates during seminars.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Student career development is a major interest for the department and we actively encourage you to integrate career planning into your academic studies. The International Relations and Security MA provides you with analytical skills and empirical knowledge to equip you for a range of chosen careers, including, but not limited to: diplomacy, journalism, the military, as well as the non-governmental sphere. The MA also delivers ideal training if you are interested in an academic career in doctoral research.
If you have a professional background in any of these (or other relevant) areas, the MA provides you with the opportunity for continuing professional development, whilst enabling you to bring your experiences to the cohort which will further enrich the programme.
Career options are wide and extensive, including working in:
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £12,500
Part-time place, per year - £6,250
Full-time place, per year - £28,000
Part-time place, per year - £14,000
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
If you’re a British Muslim, active within a Muslim community and dedicated to bringing positive change to society, you could apply to potentially have the full cost of your master’s tuition fees covered by an Aziz Foundation Scholarship.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in Politics or another social science. On occasion, 2:2 Bachelor’s degrees from non-social science areas will be considered. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Programme Lead, Dr Chelsea Johnson
Last updated 18 February 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions