MA International Conflict Studies

Our MA in International Conflict Studies provides you with a critical, in-depth, and nuanced understanding of international conflict and security. It aims to combine theory and practice, providing advanced engagement with the theoretical aspects of the subject as well as training in the investigation and analysis of specific cases of conflict, violence, and security. You will consider conflict with a broad, international focus. For example, you will look at the politics of identity and how it relates to the emergence of violent conflict, and how security influences human rights and migration policies. You will also learn about the relationship between language and violent conflict, the ethical and political implications of different approaches to studying this topic, and how differences in race, culture and gender intersect with conflict, violence and security.Key benefitsThis unique Master's course provides you with the intellectual tools and research skills necessary for career advancement. These include a capacity for advanced critical engagement with research in international conflict and security studies, the ability to analyse complex socio-political contexts of conflict and security, and a knowledge of qualitative research methodologies.You will gain analytical research experience and the capacity to conduct your own research, working individually and as part of a team.Assignments are designed to strengthen your written, oral, and visual presentation and debating skills.The course is run by leading scholars in International Relations, specialising in critical conflict and security studies.You have access to visiting lectures and seminars provided by academics and practitioners in the fields of security, migration, human rights, humanitarian law, diplomacy, and surveillance practices, to name but a few.Our department has an excellent reputation as a graduate training institution and is recognised by the British Academy, the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the Economic and Social Research council as a training institution for research in international conflict and security.Our unrivalled location in the heart of London beside the River Thames brings outstanding advantages and excellent academic, social and cultural opportunities. We are close to the seat of government, the City of London, Imperial War Museum, National Maritime Museum, Royal Courts of Justice and the Inns of Court.Our graduates succeed in a broad range of sectors, including international organisations such as the UN, NATO, government, policy think-tanks, journalism, academia, transnational corporations, and in non-governmental organisations, such as Amnesty International.Careers: EmployabilityMA ICS Graduates go on to work for NGOs and think tanks in human rights, gender, conflict resolution, war crimes and other areas, Government departments such as the FCO and the MOD, and international organisations such as the UN or NATO. They also pursue careers in journalism, finance, academia, the diplomatic services, the armed forces, and more. Recent posts held by our alumni include Creative Strategist at POLITICO in Europe, Strategy Advisor, Director of Political Violence Forecasting, Research Advisor at NATO Defence College, and Foreign Policy Fellow.