MA in International Security and Conflict Studies

Conflict takes many forms – not just direct violence – and we are all affected by it. Understanding the processes and driving forces at work is essential in our ever-changing world. The MA in International Security and Conflict aims to provide you with the tools to make your own analysis in our increasingly interconnected world. Why do people feel threatened? How do some groups manage to overcome their differences? What is the effect of peacekeeping, online radicalization, or international treaties?

We welcome students from around the world, and many have worked in conflict or security in some way. Some have studied very different undergraduate degrees but have a real interest in the subject. Our lecturers are themselves researching areas such as political economy, human rights, conflict resolution, post-war reconstruction, transitional justice, and regional studies. The classroom is a space for lively debate – it’s your chance to explore and learn together.

Core subjects in the first semester help to set out the foundations of security, conflict, and peace. In the second semester, you will find a wide range of optional modules on offer. These normally include development, trade, human rights, political terrorism, climate change, gender, and area studies such as Asia or Africa. You will also write a dissertation of up to 15,000 words, for which there is support from the beginning of the course, including one-to-one supervision.