The Middle East is one of the most diverse, dynamic and important regions on earth. On this programme, you will learn about its traditions, histories, cultures and identities. You will explore its domestic and regional politics, and analyse its strategic importance to stability and security both in the region and the rest of the world. With these skills, you will become equipped to pursue a wide range of careers in government, diplomacy or foreign affairs, international organisations, security, and many other fields in the public, private, or voluntary sectors.
The MA/MRes in Politics and International Relations has a pathway structure, allowing you to gain knowledge and understanding of the key elements of the discipline and giving you the opportunity to focus on the topics, questions, and issues that interest you the most. We have pathways in Middle East Politics, International Relations, Global Security, Politics, and US Politics. Whichever pathway you choose, you will be taught by academic staff who are experts and have long-standing reputations within these areas.
The Middle East Politics pathway explores the traditions, histories and cultures of the Middle East, investigating the area's domestic and regional politics, and analysing the geopolitical significance of this important region and its strategic impact on the rest of the world. Our modules focus on a wide range of topics, including the identities and ideologies of the region, its state structures and political organisations, its stability and security and the related international implications, and the challenges it faces from environmental change and resource scarcity.
You will take core modules which explore the key philosophies and approaches to the study of Politics and International Relations, and the ways in which research in this field is designed and conducted.
You will then select five (on the MRes) or six (on the MA) optional modules, tailoring your studies based on your interests. You may explore the domestic politics of various states in the Middle East, examine patterns of inter-state relations in the region, or analyse the international impact of regional tensions and conflicts. You may select modules that explore themes from a theoretical perspective, or choose modules that engage in empirical research.
