Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines core theory and methods with applied modules that examine contemporary security phenomena. Typical components include:

• Core theory of international security – classical and contemporary approaches to war, peace, deterrence, and the changing character of conflict.
• Security institutions and diplomacy – the role of states, international organisations, alliances and law in managing security problems.
• Conflict analysis and resolution – drivers of violent conflict, peacebuilding, post-conflict reconstruction and transitional justice.
• Terrorism and insurgency – causes, strategies, counter-terrorism policies and the ethical dilemmas they raise.
• Cyber security and intelligence – fundamentals of cyber threats, information operations, intelligence collection and analytic practice.
• Human security and migration – the intersection of security with human rights, humanitarian response and forced displacement.
• Research methods – qualitative and quantitative methods, data sources, and interdisciplinary approaches to evidence and analysis, preparing students for independent research.
• Dissertation or major research project – an extended piece of supervised independent research on a security-related topic, demonstrating analytical and methodological competence.

Teaching methods typically include seminars, policy-focused workshops, simulations and presentations alongside lectures. Assessment mixes essays, policy briefings, group projects, oral examinations and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree (equivalent to a UK second-class upper, 2:1) in a relevant subject such as politics, international relations, security studies, law, history, economics or a closely related social science. Applicants with a lower-class degree and substantial relevant professional experience in areas such as defence, diplomacy, policing, intelligence, NGOs or international organisations may be considered.

All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through a recognised English language test or equivalent evidence; typical requirements include a score that demonstrates competence at postgraduate level (for example, an overall IELTS score with minimum component scores), with higher scores often preferred for certain pathways.

Applications usually require a personal statement outlining your interest in international security, a CV and academic references; interviews may be used in some cases, particularly for candidates with substantial professional backgrounds.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in government departments and foreign ministries
• Roles in national security, intelligence and defence organisations
• Research and advocacy positions with think tanks, NGOs and international organisations
• Security consultancy and risk analysis for private sector firms
• Positions in diplomacy, humanitarian coordination and migration agencies
• Further academic research at MPhil/PhD level or teaching in higher education

The programme emphasises transferable skills valued by employers: critical analysis, policy writing, quantitative and qualitative research, presentation, and scenario planning.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough offers an interdisciplinary environment where social science research is supported by practical skills training and strong student employability services. The department engages with contemporary policy debates and provides opportunities for simulation exercises, guest lectures from practitioners and access to research seminars that connect students with academics working on security topics.

Students benefit from Loughborough's campus resources—specialist library collections, postgraduate skills workshops and career support—as well as a collegial atmosphere that encourages both independent research and collaborative projects. The programme’s mix of theory, methods and applied modules is designed to prepare graduates for demanding roles in policy, analysis and practice in the field of international security.