Understand power, diplomacy, and global governance
Online only
The MA International Relations at Edinburgh examines how states, international organisations, and non-state actors shape world politics. Core modules cover international theory, security studies, diplomatic history, and global political economy. You will simulate UN Security Council negotiations, write policy briefs for real NGOs, and engage with faculty who have served in diplomatic corps and multilateral agencies. The programme prepares graduates for careers in foreign services, international NGOs, journalism, and further doctoral study.
Simulations include UN Security Council crises, trade negotiations, and humanitarian access dilemmas. You will brief a policy audience in written and oral formats each term. Language support modules (French, Arabic, Spanish) are optional electives.
Faculty spotlight
Ambassador (ret.) James Thompson teaches diplomatic practice; Dr. Fatima Al-Rashid researches Gulf–Africa economic corridors.
Interactive modules, weekly readings, recorded and live seminars, and collaborative discussions with peers worldwide.
Module assignments, proctored examinations, and capstone projects designed to demonstrate mastery of the field.
Modules are assessed through a published mix of coursework, applied projects, and examinations. Exam windows are announced in advance so students in other time zones are not forced into overnight sittings. Alternative arrangements are available where documented.
The published duration is 24 months. Teaching language: English. Actual time-to-complete depends on mode and any recognised prior learning.
This is a fully online award. You study from your country. No student visa and no campus relocation are required.
Degree tuition for this award is published as £0 / tuition-free on the online pathway. Examination or administrative fees may apply at checkout — never an annual tuition invoice. Check the Fees page for any extras.
Requirements are grouped on this page (academic, English, documents). Equivalent qualifications are considered. English may be waived after prior English-medium study.
Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, projects, and examinations. Doctoral awards include a thesis or dissertation and an oral examination. Details sit in the programme specification and module outlines.
Recognition of the award for local employment, professional licence, or ministry attestation is decided by your employer or regulator. The University of Edinburgh publishes verification pages for certificates. We do not claim automatic equivalence in every country.
Start an application on this website. Progress is saved from the first step. Admissions: admissions@edinac.uk.
Study online
Every programme can be completed fully online with zero tuition fees — study from anywhere in the world.
Accreditation & recognition
