International Relations

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One world, 7 billion people, 193 sovereign states, over 6,000 (Non-)Governmental Organizations, 1,000s of multinationals, all tied up in complex processes of dis/integration, cooperation and conflict.

International Relations as a discipline is almost a century old. About its origins different interpretations exist, but in general IR emerged in response to the consequences of power politics in Europe, culminating in the First World War, and in response to specific research questions within Political Science. IR in Europe started as an interdisciplinary project, IR in Groningen still follows this tradition.

Building on the interdisciplinary Bachelor on International Relations & International Organization, this specialization of the Master International Relations offers a comprehensive study in theory and practice. Theretofore, IRIO uses a 'self-service' model. Besides the mandatory course on advanced theory and the master thesis, you can select from specialized capita and research seminars in four essential areas of Internationals Relations: International Security, International Political Economy, European Integration, and Global Governance. Moreover, to prepare for an international career you can organize an internship at a public or private organization in the field of international relations, where you can apply your knowledge and skills in a 'real-time' environment.

Job perspectives
The Master's specialization is broad in scope and gives students a solid foundation in international relations. There is consequently a wide range of employment opportunities for International Relations graduates. The most obvious profession is a policy advisor, but you could also become a researcher, lobbyist, diplomat, or PR officer. You can work in international business, non-profit or government organizations, in the media, and at a university or a private research institute.

1 year
* This specialization within the Master's degree programme International Relations is 60 ECTS. The basic element is the module Advanced Theory of International Relations. This module must be followed by all students. You can select from specialized capita and research seminars in four essential areas of IR: International Security, International Political Economy, European Integration, and Global Governance. During your second semester, you will write a Master thesis and you will do an internship.



Programme schedule
Courses

* Advanced Theory of International Relations (5 EC)
* Research Seminar 1 (10 EC)
* Research Seminar 2 (10 EC)
* Capita: EI, IPE, IS or GG (5 EC, optional)
* Master Internship (10 EC)
* Master's thesis IRIO (20 EC)

Examples of Research Seminars are: 'Europe and China', 'Culture, Identity, Development, Conflict', 'European Cooperation and Integration', and 'Power Configurations in World Politics'. The topics of the research seminars differ every year, so these are merely examples.

Study abroad

* Study abroad is optional

It is optional to do a master internship abroad.

Dutch studentsprevious educationStudents with either a university Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences (including - but not limited to - Economics, Political Science, Development Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Social Geography), or an internationally oriented university Bachelor's degree such as International Relations, Regional Studies, European/International Law, or (Modern) History are eligible to apply.To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, the IR Admissions Board will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades you have obtained.The Admissions Board will then determine whether: * direct admission is possible * a student has to complete the pre-Master's programme first * a student cannot be admittedInternational studentsprevious educationStudents with either a university Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences (including - but not limited to - Economics, Political Science, Development Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Social Geography), or an internationally oriented university Bachelor's degree such as International Relations, Regional Studies, European/International Law, or (Modern) History are eligible to apply.To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, the IR Admissions Board will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades you have obtained.The Admissions Board will then determine whether: * direct admission is possible * a student has to complete the pre-Master's programme first * a student cannot be admitted English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test: 92

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The university is committed to recognizing excellence in academic achievement through offering a number of scholarships for international students and researchers. Several scholarships are available for international students who are motivated to study Bachelors, Masters and PhD programmes, as well as for exchanges, short courses and research stays at our university.

Besides scholarships awarded by the University of Groningen, a number of grants awarded by the Dutch government, the EU and (inter)national organizations, such as World Bank or the Ford Foundation, can be used for study or research at the University of Groningen as well.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Dutch Government