Course summary
Our MSc Security & International Relations will help you tackle the ‘big issues’ on the international stage with confidence and curiosity, equipping you for career paths in local, national, and international arenas thanks to innovative modules and a thesis that allows you to specialise. On the course you will be introduced to the fundamental principles of international relations, and you will refine your knowledge within specialist classes on what it means to be secure, digital security, and human rights. You will learn in a systematic and engaging way about the origins, evolution and multifaceted character of the international system. Our research active lecturers furthermore provide specialist insights on power, influence and governance within key national, regional and international structures. Our graduates are well placed to specialise in careers connected to key areas of international relations, enhanced with expertise in security.
Assessment method
Students of the MSc in International Relations will be assessed through a range of methods, including essays, briefing notes, book reviews, portfolios, individual and group oral presentations, action research, political role play, simulations, standard examinations, as well as a sustained piece of academic work in the form of a thesis, all of which take account of two key interdependent aspects: The acquisition of relevant knowledge and understanding in the area of International Relations; and The development of academic style and practical skills in the area of International Relations and the Security Studies Specialism. Accordingly, assessment procedures are designed to test the acquisition and needs of graduate students in terms of their newly attainment and management of broad areas of knowledge and understanding in their chosen subject area, as well as the various transferrable skills by which that knowledge is acquired.
Entry requirements
Our standard offer for accepting students onto the MSc in International Relations is a 2:1, preferably in directly relatable subjects within the social and political sciences, including previous study in the area of international relations, although cognate subjects including history, law, comparative studies, or the broader range of sociology and psychology will also be considered providing undergraduate marks obtained are robust enough.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £9535* | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9535* | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9535* | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9535* | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9535* | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £9535* | Year 1 |
*This is a provisional fee and subject to change.
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 fees above are for the 2025/26 academic year but may be subject to change following any announcements by the UK Government (approved by Parliament) regarding maximum Undergraduate tuition fee caps for 2025/26.
In addition, the University reserves the right to increase all full-time and part-time Undergraduate tuition fees mid-course, in line with any further inflationary increase in the Government tuition fee cap which is approved by Parliament. The University will publish information about any changes to tuition fees on its website.
International Tuition Fees (including EU fees): To be confirmed
Undergraduate tuition fees for International students are not subject to the Government’s regulations on maximum tuition fees.
Provider information
Canterbury Christ Church University
North Holmes Road
Canterbury
CT1 1QU