Master of International Relations
Course Overview
The Master of International Relations is a postgraduate qualification online career support through LOU's virtual learning environment, giving students worldwide access to advanced research methodology, corporate governance, and executive-level practice at London academic standards. Running across 12 to 18 months full postgraduate online route, this programme is designed for motivated learners who need LOU's online platform without compromising on the quality or depth of their studies. Every component of the Master of International Relations is delivered entirely online, from live sessions with expert tutors to recorded materials and a comprehensive digital library access.
By completing the Master of International Relations, you will have the knowledge, skills, and professional grounding to advise at board level on international relations confidently, critically evaluate policy in industry frameworks at a postgraduate standard, and apply your learning directly to real-world contexts across law, politics, economics & international relations. Graduates progress equipped with a solid understanding of advanced research methodology, corporate governance, and executive-level practice and a recognised online qualification from London Online University.
Key Features
- Online career support through LOU's virtual learning environment, combining delivered entirely online and digital library access
- Aligned with Law Society of England and Wales professional standards and curriculum frameworks
- Course content informed by Bar Council of England and Wales guidelines and industry expectations
- Comprehensive study from anywhere in the world including academic resources, practitioner publications, and case study libraries
- LOU's online platform with qualified tutors and fellow learners across the globe
- Direct progression pathway into the LOU professional practice or doctoral study in International Relations
- Industry references drawn from Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) and other internationally recognised professional bodies
What You Will Learn
- Advise at board level on the core principles and theoretical foundations of international relations
- Critically evaluate policy in practical approaches to key challenges in international relations
- Lead organisational transformation in the regulatory, ethical, and professional frameworks relevant to law, politics, economics & international relations
- Develop evidence-based strategy for data, research, and industry information to inform decisions in international relations
- Synthesise research on communication, stakeholder engagement, and professional presentation skills
- Produce a capstone or dissertation examining contemporary trends, emerging technologies, and global developments in international relations
- Conduct original research into a postgraduate portfolio of skills and knowledge valued by employers in law, politics, economics & international relations
Who This Course Is For
- Senior professionals and graduates seeking postgraduate-level specialisation in international relations
- Learners based internationally who require online career support at London academic standards
- Career changers aiming to enter or pivot within the law, politics, economics & international relations sector
- Employees in law, politics, economics & international relations organisations who need study from anywhere in the world alongside full-time work
- Professionals who benefit from LOU's online platform to balance study commitments with existing responsibilities
Career Pathways
- Diplomat
- International Development Officer
- Policy Analyst
- Political Consultant
- Legal Advisor
- Compliance Officer
- UN Programme Officer
LOU's dedicated online career support service provides virtual CV coaching, LinkedIn profile guidance, and online interview preparation to help Master of International Relations graduates secure rewarding roles in law, politics, economics & international relations organisations across the UK and internationally.
Entry Requirements
- A UK 2:2 (Lower Second Class) honours degree or overseas equivalent in any discipline
- Applicants without a first degree may be considered with 5+ years of senior professional experience
- IELTS 6.5 overall (no band under 6.0) or equivalent English proficiency
- A 500-word research statement covering the applicant's chosen area of specialisation
- Two academic or professional references and a short online interview
Why Study at LOU
LOU's curriculum is written and reviewed by industry practitioners across all ten disciplines and is built to give online learners the same depth, rigour and career-relevant knowledge as campus-based study. Virtual tutorial sessions, peer collaboration tools and live Q&A sessions with tutors ensure an engaged, supported learning experience accessible via LOU's virtual learning environment.
LOU's articulation model means every Certificate and Diploma leads cleanly into an Advanced Diploma, UK Higher Diploma and full online Bachelor — with Master's routes for those aiming at senior management, consultancy and executive roles. Students can study from anywhere in the world and progress through the full qualification ladder at their own pace.
Apply for Master of International Relations
Advance your career with an LOU Master's degree delivered entirely online and take the next step in your international relations career with the Master of International Relations from London Online University. This qualification is online career support, meaning you can advance your expertise and build a recognised London academic credential from wherever you are in the world. Enrol Now
















