COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA International Security Studies programme combines theoretical knowledge, research expertise, and practical analysis of contemporary global security challenges through a range of core and optional modules. Students begin by studying Approaches and Issues in International Security, which introduces key concepts, theories, and debates within Security Studies while examining contemporary issues such as peacekeeping, peacebuilding, mediation, conflict management, and other approaches to conflict resolution. The International Relations Theory module explores major theoretical perspectives that explain global politics, encouraging students to critically assess concepts such as power, the state, agency, structure, and world order while reflecting on their own assumptions and ideological perspectives. Through Issues and Methods in Social Research, students gain a comprehensive understanding of social research methodologies, research design, and knowledge production, developing the practical skills required to conduct independent academic research and prepare for advanced project work. The programme culminates in the SPS Dissertation, an extensive independent research project that allows students to investigate a security-related topic of their choice under expert supervision. Supported by workshops and guidance throughout the research process, students learn to design, conduct, analyse, and present high-quality research while demonstrating advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities. To further personalise their studies, students select one optional module aligned with their interests and career goals. Options include Negotiating in International Contexts, which develops negotiation and conflict-management skills; Diplomacy, Foreign Policy and Security, which examines international diplomatic practices and security policymaking; Service Learning, which combines academic learning with practical community engagement; Global Governance and International Institutions, which explores the role of international organisations in addressing global challenges; and Intercultural Communication at Work, which focuses on effective communication across diverse cultural and professional environments. Together, these modules provide students with a strong foundation in international security analysis, policy evaluation, research methods, diplomacy, and global governance, preparing graduates for careers in government, international organisations, security and intelligence agencies, policy research institutes, non-governmental organisations, and other fields related to international security and global affairs.