21Oct
PostgraduateCourse summary
This is a degree offered in collaboration with other departments in the Faculty of Social Sciences. It is designed to provide a strong all round training in research methods allied to further specialisation within the fields of politics, international relations and security for those intending to go on to register for a PhD. As such it implements the ESRC research training guidelines for '1+3' PhD students, and includes compulsory elements in a wide variety of techniques including statistics and quantitative methods, but contains less subject-specific content than the other MA courses. Core modules:
- Empirical Research in Politics, International Relations and Security
- Interdisciplinary Perspectives and Practices across Social Science Research
- Quantitative Methods and Analysis
- Qualitative Methods and Analysis
- Dissertation.
Modules
In recent years, optional modules have included: Advanced Ethnographic Research; Multilevel Modelling; Simulating Data in R; Systematic Review; Advanced Statistics for Psychology and the Behavioural Sciences; Computational Social Science; Participatory Action Research; Core Concepts in Political Science; International Relations Theory; International Organisations; Defence, Development and Diplomacy in Conflict: Evolving Actors, Factors and Paradigms; Conflict Prevention and Sustainable Peace; Peace Processes and Everyday Political Negotiation; Consolidating Peace After Violence.
Assessment method
Typically summative assessments are around 3,000 words, but these vary based on learning outcomes, assessment type, and module design. Some modules may be assessed by examination. The majority of coursework involves independent reading and written assignments, but you will have the opportunity to discuss course material as well either through presentations or class discussions. You will be assigned a dissertation supervisor, who will also act as your academic advisor, and is someone you can consult throughout the year for general academic support, in addition to dissertation supervision.
How to apply
International applicants
If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.
Entry requirements
UK 2.1 Bachelor degree, or equivalent. The degree should be in the field of social sciences, but we will actively consider significant relevant experience in lieu of this requirement.
English language requirements
Durham University welcomes applications from all students irrespective of background. We encourage the recruitment of academically well-qualified and highly motivated students, who are non-native speakers of English, whose full potential can be realised with a limited amount of English Language training either prior to entry or through pre-sessional and/or in-sessional courses. It is the normal expectation that candidates for admission should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by following the link provided.
English language requirements
https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
The tuition fees for 2025/26 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed on the www.durham.ac.uk/study website once approved.
Sponsorship information
For further information see the course listing at durham.ac.uk/study
Provider information
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE