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MA in International Relations at The Open University

The Open University, United Kingdom

Programme overview

The MA equips students to understand and analyse contemporary global issues including international division, rising powers, national and global security threats and the rise of populism, with real-world challenges and a dissertation project developing independent research skills.

Duration: 2 years part-time (90 credits per year, 20-25 hours a week).  |  Intake: October 2027 (next start shown on page)  |  Study mode: part-time distance learning  |  Location: Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

180 credits: two compulsory 90-credit modules, MA International relations part 1 (D818) and part 2 (D828); part 1 must be passed before part 2.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a UK honours degree or equivalent; a degree in International Relations, International Studies or a closely related subject (such as social sciences or law) is ideal. International applicants: a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 is recommended where English is not the first language.

GBP 8,800 for the whole programme (2026/27). Total for the qualification at 2026/27 prices with England selected as location; paid one module at a time. Module materials, tuition, assessment and exams included; fee valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Source

Intake: October 2027 (next start shown on page)

Duration: 2 years part-time (90 credits per year, 20-25 hours a week).

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