Course summary

The traditional military threats which defined global security matters for the best part of the 20th century have been quickly replaced by new and re-emerging security challenges. The Masters in Global Security offers you the opportunity to examine conventional and unconventional security threats in the contemporary environment. WHY THIS PROGRAMME

• The programme will develop your knowledge of the major security challenges impacting our rapidly changing socio-political environment at a global, national, and local level. These range from interstate conflict, terrorism, insurgency, cyber and hybrid warfare to disease, migration and climate change.

• You will benefit from the interdisciplinary expertise of our staff who have specialism in a wide array of security-focused issues, ranging from interstate conflict, terrorism, insurgency, cyber and hybrid warfare, to poverty, climate change, migration, and public health.

• This programme provides you with the theoretical and practical knowledge that can enable you to pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including governmental and non-governmental organisations, international organisations, research agencies, and security and risk analysis companies

• You will address the complexity of contemporary security threats by acquiring the theoretical knowledge and policy tools required for expert analysis and result-oriented action.

• Extra-curricular activities include master classes delivered by established academics and high-profile professionals, and career-focused workshops.

• You will have the opportunity to participate in a study trip to a European city that hosts important security-focused institutions (such as NATO Headquarters) in order to gain first-hand experience with decision-making processes and get valuable insights into job opportunities (previous study trips were organised to Brussels, Paris, and London).

• You will benefit from networking opportunities and vibrant intellectual development within a highly international and diverse cohort of Global Security students.

• International Relations at Glasgow is ranked 2nd in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2025.