To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits from the following:
Compulsory modules |
Credits |
Next start |
- MA International relations part 1 (D818)
This module explores key dilemmas of interest to international relations including international divisions, rising powers, security and global challenges, democratic crisis, and global ethical dilemmas.
See full description Register
|
90 |
02 Sep 2023 |
- MA International relations part 2 (D828) PLANNED
|
90 |
07 Sept 2024 |
You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.
Credit transfer
If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. If you're awarded module exemption against part 1, the first opportunity to start studying is September 2024. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
On completion
On successful completion of the required modules you can be awarded an MA in International Relations. You will be entitled you to use the letters MA (IR) (Open) after your name. You will have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 14 March 2023.
Career relevance
This qualification will give you advanced knowledge and a critical understanding of International Relations and contemporary global changes. It develops your social science research skills, applying these in a variety of projects and an independently researched dissertation. Students graduating from this degree will have demonstrated analysis of complex situations, finding, evaluating and using a variety of sources, and presenting work to a variety of audiences.
The MA will be relevant for careers in a range of sectors including the civil service, international organisations and charities, think-tank and policy research, and serves as excellent preparation for further academic research (e.g. a PhD).
Careers and Employability Services have more information on how OU study can improve your employability.