Keele University

What you'll study

This master's develops a grounded understanding of contemporary political issues and international processes through a mix of core modules, optional modules and a substantial research dissertation. Core topics typically include theories of international relations, comparative politics, and research methods (covering both qualitative and quantitative approaches). You will engage with themes such as conflict and security, global governance, human rights, political economy, and regional politics.

Teaching is normally delivered through lectures, small-group seminars and workshops. Assessment methods commonly include essays, policy briefs, research projects, timed examinations and a final dissertation (or substantial practice-based project) supervised by an academic member of staff. Optional modules allow you to tailor your pathway towards areas such as security studies, diplomacy and negotiation, foreign policy analysis, political theory, or electoral and party politics.

Typical modules and activities

• International Relations Theory and Approaches
• Comparative Politics and Governance
• Research Design and Methods for Social Sciences
• Security Studies and Conflict Analysis
• Global Political Economy
• Dissertation or Major Research Project with one-to-one supervision
• Seminars, simulation exercises (e.g. negotiation or crisis simulation), and opportunities for policy-focused assessments

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (UK 2:1 or international equivalent) in politics, international relations, history, sociology, economics, law or a related discipline. Candidates with a lower-class degree plus relevant professional experience or a proven research record may also be considered. Applications from mature students with substantial work experience in policy, government, NGOs or international organisations are welcomed.

International applicants must meet Keele's English language requirements for postgraduate study; typically this means a recognised qualification at an appropriate level (for example IELTS or equivalent) with competence across reading, writing, listening and speaking. Admissions tutors may also consider evidence of prior study or professional work in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to careers across public, private and civil society sectors. Typical roles include policy analyst, political researcher, diplomatic service officer, intelligence and security analyst, development and humanitarian adviser, campaign or advocacy officer, and positions within international organisations and NGOs. The programme also provides a solid foundation for further academic study at MPhil or PhD level and supports pathways into journalism, consultancy and the think-tank sector.

The emphasis on research methods and the dissertation equips students with transferable skills in critical analysis, data interpretation, policy writing and project management valued by employers in both national and international contexts.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based postgraduate experience with close contact between students and research-active academic staff, enabling personal supervision of dissertation projects. The university emphasises interdisciplinary approaches, so politics and international relations students benefit from collaboration with colleagues in economics, law, history and sociology.

Students have access to campus resources including the library's social science collections, research training workshops and dedicated postgraduate support services. Small-group teaching and seminar-led discussion are central to the learning approach, and there are opportunities to develop practical skills through simulation exercises, guest lectures from practitioners, and independent research. Keele's supportive environment and emphasis on employability help prepare graduates for careers in policy, international organisations, research and beyond.