International Relations and Security

The BA (Hons) International Relations and Security programme at the University of Liverpool offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between nations, organizations, and individuals that shape the global political landscape. This course is designed to provide learners with a critical insight into the theories and practices that underpin international relations, alongside a focused study of contemporary security issues. Throughout the programme, students explore the dynamics of international conflict, diplomacy, human security, cyber security, terrorism, and the role of international organizations such as the United Nations and NATO. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in government, international agencies, NGOs, security services, journalism, or further academic research. Students will engage in rigorous analysis of current global developments, participate in simulated diplomatic negotiations, and develop the ability to evaluate multiple perspectives on security challenges. The programme encourages a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating political science, history, economics, and law, ensuring students gain a well-rounded view of international affairs. With access to cutting-edge research, experienced faculty, and strong links with industry and governmental bodies, students will benefit from a rich learning environment that fosters critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and problem-solving skills. The degree also offers opportunities for study abroad, language acquisition, and internships, enabling students to gain practical experience and develop global networks. Graduates from this programme are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to the fields of international policy, diplomatic service, security analysis, and beyond. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, with options to specialize in areas such as security studies, international law, conflict resolution, or global governance. Upon completion, graduates will be well-prepared to navigate and influence the increasingly interconnected and complex world of international relations and security.

The programme, based on the strength of the department, will furnish its participants with and advanced understanding of the key issues in international relations and security. There are four core modules, as follows:

International Relations module

The module will introduce you to International Relations theory and provide you with the necessary theoretical tool set to analyze issues of international security.

International System module

The international system module provides you with a comprehensive introduction to today’s international system and security challenges. In particular, the module will explore to what extent the International Relations theories can help us to understand today’s developments. The module draws on the unique expertise in the Department of Politics at Liverpool: violent non-state actors. We are experts on terrorism, international criminal actors, human trafficking, insurgents and private military and security companies.

Research Methods module

The research methods module will furnish you with the skill set to conduct investigations in a rigorous and scientific manner.

Dissertation module

In this module students will put all their research skill to work and develop a 12,000 – 15,000 word dissertation. One of the major advantages of the module is the freedom of choice: The student is free in choosing the research subject, theory and methodology.

The core modules are complemented by optional modules. Students are free to choose three modules at their own discretion. Still, the programme design provides pathways suggestions (which are not mandatory) in order to assure coherency of studies. Each pathway is designed to complement the core modules, yet offers a unique additional specialization and qualification.

Pathway I: International Relations and Security

The pathway would deepen you understanding on matters international relations and security discussed in the core modules.

• POLI130 – The International Politics of the Mediterranean and the Middle East
• POLI150 – Contemporary Anti-Slavery, Forced Labour and Human Rights
• POLI 303 – Intelligence and Security
• ENVS434 – Space, Power & Culture
• POLI114 – Europe and the World

Pathway II: Conflict Resolution

The conflict resolution pathway complements the discussions on conflict, violence and security in the core modules as it provides a deeper insights into conflict analysis and peaceful conflict solutions tools.

• IRIS533 – Controversy and Conflict
• HIST581 – Histories of Slavery
• POLI133 – Comparative Peace Processes
• IRIS538 – Understanding the Northern Irish Conflict: Interpretations and Solutions

Pathway III: Political Communication

The political communications pathway provides an additional perspective on international politics by adding a the role of media to the picture.

• COMM713 – Political & Media 1
• COMM723 – Public Service Broadcasting
• COMM714 – Political & Media 2
• COMM724 – Media and Human Rights

Please note, all modules are subject to availability and it may be necessary to remove modules due to changes in staffing and research leave. Where modules are removed following registration, students will be notified as far in advance as possible.

Pathway IV: International Law

The International Law pathway is aimed at providing students with knowledge and understanding of the impact of international law on international relations.

• LAW 353 Principles of International Law
• LAW 073 Human Rights Law
• LAW 354 Law and current affairs
• LAW 320 Security Conflict and Law

Compulsory modules

• International Relations Theory (POLI132) 
• Research Methods In Politics (POLI116) 
• The International System (POLI131) 
• Masters Dissertation (POLI119) 
• Contemporary Anti-slavery, forced Labour and Human Rights (POLI150) 

Optional modules

• The International Politics of The Mediterranean and The Middle East (POLI130) 
• Security and Intelligence (POLI303)
• Globalisation and Development (ENVS434) 
• Europe and The World (POLI114)
• Controversy and Conflict (IRIS533) 
• Histories of Slavery (HIST581) 
• Comparative Peace Processes (POLI133)
• Understanding The Northern Irish Conflict: Interpretations and Solutions (IRIS538) 
• Politics and The Media I: Theories and Cases (COMM713)
• Public Service Broadcasting (ma) (COMM723) 
• Politics and The Media 2: Economy and Society (COMM714)
• Media and Human Rights (COMM724)

Requirements

• For entry onto this MA we require a good 2:1 Bachelor's degree in Politics studies or a related area e.g. other social science degrees.  On occassion, we will also consider a good 2:1 Bachelor's degree from a non social science area.
• Russian students holding a Magistr Degree at Grade 4, a Specialist Diploma (5 year programme) at Grade 4.25 or a Baklavar (Bachelors) Degree at Grade 4.5 (all scores on 5.0 scale).
• School or college transcripts or certificates
• University/degree transcripts and certificates upon completion. (Partial transcripts are acceptable at point of application)
• Evidence of English language ability
• A personal statement explaining why you want to undertake the programme and why you feel you are a suitable candidate
• Details of two people prepared to provide references (these should be academic references if you have been in full-time education in the last three years)
• A research proposal (if applicable)
• CV (if applicable)
• Portfolio (if applicable)
• IELTS 6.5(with a minimum of 6.0 in each component)
• TOEFL iBT 88 or above with minimum scores in components as follows: Listening and Writing 21, Reading – 22, Speaking 23
• Please be advised that TOEFL is no longer classified by UK Visas and Immigration as a Secure English Language Test (SELT). However, at the current time the university is continuing to accept TOEFL, at the required level, for entry on to Undergraduate and Postgraduate academic programmes. 

Scholarships

• Vice Chancellor's International Attainment Scholarship – PGT
• LIC Merit Award - PGT
• Liverpool Affinity Awards
• Sport Liverpool Scholarships
• Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries

International Relations and Security at the University of Liverpool offers students a comprehensive exploration of the complex global political landscape, focusing on the relationships between countries, international organizations, and non-state actors. This program is designed to develop a nuanced understanding of security issues, international conflict, diplomacy, and the theory and practice underlying international interactions. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling students to analyze current international security challenges such as terrorism, cyber security, military conflicts, and humanitarian crises.

Throughout the course, students gain critical skills in research, analysis, and policy formulation, preparing them for diverse career paths in government, international organizations, think tanks, or the private sector. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating political science, economics, history, and law to offer a well-rounded perspective on international relations and security issues. Students engage with contemporary topics like global governance, nuclear proliferation, human rights, peacekeeping, and diplomatic negotiation.

The teaching team comprises highly experienced academics and practitioners with expertise in international security policy, international law, and diplomatic studies. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, case studies, simulations, and guest lectures from industry professionals. Evaluation is based on essays, presentations, exams, and project work, ensuring students develop both theoretical and practical competencies.

Students benefit from access to extensive resources such as dedicated libraries, online databases, and research centers specializing in international relations. Opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and joint projects with international partners are encouraged to enhance experiential learning. The program also emphasizes developing critical thinking, effective communication, and intercultural understanding, which are essential qualities in the global security field.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in diplomatic services, defense analysis, international development, policy advising, and security consultancy. The University of Liverpool’s emphasis on research-led teaching ensures graduates are at the forefront of current international security debates and policies. Overall, the program provides a rigorous, engaging education that prepares students to understand and address some of the most pressing international security issues of our time.