MA Politics and International Relations at University of Aberdeen

Programme overview

Politics and International Relations at Aberdeen, a unique combination in Scotland, focuses on the role of politics, power, states, and governments in an ever-changing global context, taught by internationally renowned academics regularly appearing as experts in the media on events unfolding in the world today. This programme offers the perfect foundation for careers in politics, international affairs, NGOs, media and more. Did you know?

Duration: 4 years (48 months) | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September | Location: Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Politics and International Relations at Aberdeen offers a diverse range of courses that will enhance your knowledge and understanding of the subject. The analysis and evaluation skills that you develop will help you in your future career. Year 1 compulsory courses: Politics & International Relations 1: Democracy and Governance, Politics & International Relations 2: Power and Conflict, Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen and Academic Writing for Social Sciences.

Career pathways

The analytical and communication skills that you develop from studying Politics and International Relations at Aberdeen will give you a competitive advantage in the job market. You will develop skills in problem-solving, thinking creatively, evaluating evidence and forming reasoned arguments that can be transferable in a range of different industries.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2027 entry. SQA Highers Standard: BBBB Applicants presenting the standard grades will usually receive an unconditional offer; more may be asked for where applications exceed places. Widening Access: BBC Applicants who meet one or more of our widening access metrics and present with BBC, are guaranteed an unconditional offer. Foundation Apprenticeship: One FA is equivalent to a Higher at A. It cannot replace any required subjects. Note: We do not double count a Higher and Advanced Higher in the same subject, but we do consider that a B grade at Advanced Higher is equivalent to an A grade at Higher. National 5 English (or equivalent) is required at Grade C or above. A LEVELS Standard: BBC Widening Access: CCC GCSE English (or equivalent) is required at Grade C/4 or above. BTEC LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA DMM in related subjects. Note: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (Subsidiary Diploma) achieved at Distinction level, is normally acceptable in lieu of one A Level at grade B.) GCSE English (or equivalent) is required at Grade C/4 or above. GCSE Mathematics at Grade C/4 is also required for Accountancy, Economics and Finance programmes. IRISH LEAVING CERTIFICATE Five subjects at Higher at H3. INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE 32 points including 5, 5, 5 at HL. SL in English is also required.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Home fee for students from Scotland. Source

International applicants: GBP 20,800 a year (2026/27). EU / international fee. Reduced rate (Self-funded Students): £14,800. Source

Intake: September

Duration: 4 years (48 months)

Apply through the official page: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/apply/ucas-application-process/

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