The MA in International Relations at Dublin City University (DCU) is a one-year, full-time Level 9 NFQ postgraduate programme designed for students passionate about global affairs, diplomacy, and political strategy. Delivered by DCU’s School of Law and Government, the programme offers a critical and applied understanding of international systems, conflict resolution, global governance, and foreign policy, preparing graduates for careers in international organisations, government agencies, NGOs, and global policy think tanks.

Whether you are a recent graduate in politics, law, or social sciences—or a professional looking to pivot into international affairs—this MA provides the analytical tools and global awareness needed to navigate today’s complex geopolitical landscape.

Why Choose This Programme?

• Interdisciplinary Expertise: Combines politics, law, economics, and security studies for a holistic view of global relations.
• World-Class Faculty: Learn from leading academics and policy practitioners with experience in EU institutions, the UN, and diplomatic services.
• DCU School of Law and Government: A top-ranking Irish institution for politics and international studies, known for impactful research and global connections.
• Applied Learning: Real-world policy debates, simulations, and dissertation opportunities aligned with your area of interest.

Programme Structure and Core Modules

Location: DCU Glasnevin Campus

Semester 1

• International Relations Theories
  Explore major theoretical approaches to understanding global power structures and international order.

• International Security
  Examines traditional and emerging threats including war, terrorism, cyberconflict, and humanitarian crises.

• Foreign Policy Analysis
  Learn how nations develop and implement foreign policies within shifting global contexts.

• Research Methodology
  Gain advanced skills in qualitative and quantitative research, preparing for policy analysis or academic study.

Semester 2

• Global Political Economy
  Investigate the relationship between politics and economics on a global scale, including trade, development, and finance.

• International Law and Organisations
  Study the legal frameworks governing international relations, including treaties, the UN, and the ICC.

• Optional Modules (Choose from topics like: Middle East Politics, EU External Relations, Gender and Global Politics, Climate and Security)

• Professional and Critical Thinking
  Develop skills in negotiation, policy writing, public communication, and critical argumentation.

Summer Term

• Dissertation or Applied Research Project
  Conduct original research or a policy project under expert supervision on a theme such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, human rights, or EU foreign policy.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the MA in International Relations will be able to:

• Analyse and interpret international events and policies using advanced theoretical frameworks.

• Critically assess security, diplomatic, and legal challenges in international affairs.

• Apply research methods to global political questions.

• Communicate complex global issues clearly to academic and non-academic audiences.

• Engage with ethical dimensions of foreign policy and humanitarian action.

• Pursue careers in international policy, diplomacy, advocacy, and analysis.

Career Opportunities

This MA equips graduates for dynamic roles in international organisations, diplomacy, policy research, global NGOs, journalism, and public administration.

Potential roles include:

• Policy Analyst

• Diplomatic Attaché

• International Affairs Officer

• Political Risk Analyst

• Humanitarian Programme Manager

• Government Relations Associate

• EU or UN Programme Officer

Graduate employers include: Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, European Commission, United Nations, NGOs (e.g., Amnesty International, Oxfam), embassies, think tanks, and international media.

Professional and Academic Progression

Graduates are well prepared for:

• Entry into diplomatic corps or international civil service

• Roles in global development, human rights, and security policy

• Doctoral study (PhD in International Relations or Political Science)

• Fellowship and research opportunities across the EU and globally

Why Study at DCU?

• DCU ranks among Ireland’s top universities for global employability

• Strong focus on international engagement and interdisciplinary research

• Centrally located in Dublin, close to diplomatic missions, international agencies, and NGOs

• Opportunities to participate in international study trips, research conferences, and policy briefings

*Scholarships – Special Note*

? Scholarship for International Students:
Merit-based scholarships ranging from €2,500 to €6,400 are available for high-achieving Non-EU applicants. All international applications are automatically considered—early application is encouraged.