We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2026/27 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2025/26 courses.
Make sense of the complex and contested nature of international politics and diplomatic interactions.
Our MA International Relations and Diplomacy will equip you with the theoretical ideas and empirical knowledge required to understand the fundamental forces shaping global politics. You'll gain the ability to both appreciate broad trends, such as the re-emergence of war and the conditions that sustain peace, and think critically about particular issues.
Benefitting from regular guest speakers and the opportunity to learn from a former ambassador, you'll develop an appreciation of the nuances of international diplomacy and the problems faced by diplomats, politicians, and policymakers in responding to global challenges. Our modules help you develop practical skills that will boost your employability across a range of professions.
You can choose to apply your understanding in a practical way with a work placement project.
Our academics in the Department of Politics and International Relations regularly feature in academic literature and the media, offering their expertise on current issues. Learn more about how we engage in real-world politics.
97% of our research outputs are rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, meaning that the University of Reading is 6th highest in the UK for research outputs (Times Higher Education analysis of the latest REF 2021 – Politics and International Studies, when scoring by GPA Output).
On this course, you’ll learn through discussion, interactive group work, presentations and simulations.
Benefit from regular input of current and former diplomats and undertake a range of practical policy-oriented exercises and assessments. These allow you to ‘be the diplomat’ and provide you with key employability skills.
Interactive small-group teaching is central to the MA International Relations and Diplomacy programme. Your voice will be heard and valued in these sessions, allowing you to engage in rich discussion with lecturers and peers.
As you move through the programme, you’ll become an increasingly independent learner.
You’ll receive methods training that enables you to conduct an independent research project in the form of a dissertation.
You’ll also meet with your academic tutor regularly, to ensure you’re getting the best out of your time at Reading.
We offer a range of specialisms allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests. You can also choose to study a language with the Institution-Wide Language Programme.
We regularly invite guest speakers to deliver lectures, allowing you to gain insight into the different opportunities available to you after graduation and a chance to build your network.
Previous speakers include:
Put your academic knowledge to practice and build your network with a work placement in an external organisation focused on international relations or international security. You will gain invaluable first-hand experience and independent problem solving, working within a professional environment . Further develop your independent and critical research skills through a written reflective research report which counts towards your final mark.
