International Relations

Overview

By joining this fascinating International Relations programme offered by The University of Edinburgh, you will become part of a community that is passionate about international relations.

We explore topics such as:

• war

• terrorism

• power

• diplomacy

• climate change

• trade

• poverty

• migration

• international cooperation

We engage in not just their study, but also ways to meet the associated challenges.

How will I learn?

Our approach combines innovative research with creative and inspirational teaching, provided by staff who combine intricate knowledge of the major international institutions with a deep appreciation of historical change and the most important ideas in international thought.

You will be inspired to explore a world of possibilities, from evolutionary psychology and the sociology of the financial crisis to state survival in the Middle East and the social construction of security.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of the programme you will:

• know and understand core explanatory theories, concepts, institutions and issues in the study of international relations

• have specialist in-depth knowledge of specific areas and issues in international relations

• know key contemporary debates in existing academic literatures in journals and books on international relations

• be able to analyse and evaluate competing theoretical paradigms in the explanation and judgment of international relations

• be able to apply explanatory models to analyse and understand specific developments within international relations

• be able to draw on a variety of disciplinary paradigms in the understanding of international relations

Career opportunities:

This qualification could lead to a career in a wide range of institutions and roles, such as:

• regional, national and international government institutions
• party political support
• development organisations
• educational, research and think-tank organisations
• banking
• media
• lobbying
• commercial organisations

You may also choose to continue to further study.

The transferable skills you gain in areas such as communication and research will give you an edge in the employment market, whatever your eventual career.