University of Reading United Kingdom

MRes Politics and International Relations

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MRes Politics and International Relations at the University of Reading equips you with advanced research skills to tackle complex global challenges. This postgraduate degree is ideal for aspiring academics or those seeking to deepen their expertise in fields such as international security studies, political theory, or contemporary diplomacy. You will engage with critical philosophical, methodological, and ethical questions underpinning research design, preparing you for rigorous scholarly inquiry and informed policy analysis in a dynamic political landscape.

This full-time, one-year on-campus Masters programme immerses you in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, alongside optional modules allowing you to specialise in areas like international relations theory or terrorism studies. You will develop your research capabilities through compulsory training and culminate your studies with a substantial dissertation, guided by expert faculty. Graduates are well-prepared for doctoral study or careers in research, policy analysis, and international organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MRes program in Politics and International Relations offers a comprehensive foundation in research methodologies and theoretical approaches. Students will engage with the philosophy of social science and gain proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The curriculum further allows for specialization through a diverse range of optional modules, covering areas such as public policy, international relations theory, international security, diplomacy, and peacebuilding.

1 Compulsory Modules

Philosophy of social science
Introduction to qualitative research methods
Introduction to quantitative research methods

2 Optional Modules

Politics of public policy
International relations theory
International security studies
Contemporary diplomacy
Terrorism in a globalising world
Worlding international relations
Building peace
NATO strategy during and after the Cold War
International organisations in global politics

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 35,752.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 35,752.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 467.00 - USD 1,787.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Road Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Civil & Infrastructure EngineeringCommercial & Industrial ConstructionCrop Production & FarmingEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionFood Processing & ManufacturingIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionLivestock & Animal HusbandryResidential Construction

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

FAO

Why Study MRes Politics and International Relations at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MRes Politics and International Relations at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks. A separate work permit is not required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no individual score below 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Policy Analysts, Research Associates, or Diplomatic Officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program includes modules like Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods and Philosophical Issues in the Social Sciences. It's designed to prepare you for a doctoral study in areas such as Diplomacy and Political Theory.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MRes Politics and International Relations program starts in September. Make sure to check the application deadlines to secure your place.
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