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University of Essex homepage Course Finder International Relations
Subject

International relations

International relations
Undergraduate Masters Research

Develop your global perspective

Want to understand the dynamics between nations and states? An undergraduate degree in international relations will develop your awareness of global complexities, advanced analytical thinking, and the strategic skills sought after by international employers. Establish your international expertise, and prepare to make your mark on our interconnected world.

Why choose Essex?
  • 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
  • Top 10 in the UK for Politics and International Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2024)
  • 12th in the UK for International Relations in the Guardian University Guide (2025)
Dr Zorzeta Bakaki, a senior lecturer in the Department of Government at the University of Essex.
Learn more about international relations at Essex

Meet the lecturers, discover our famous alumni, and learn about undergraduate student life in the Department of Government.

Explore undergraduate study the Department of Government
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If you like international relations, you might also like:
Sociology
Economics
Human rights
Law
American (US) studies
European studies

Elevate your international expertise

Ready to advance your understanding of international diplomacy and power dynamics? A master's degree in international relations provides specialised knowledge of complex global issues, a practical understanding of conflict resolution, and strategic analytical skills valued by international organisations. Deepen your global insight and prepare to make meaningful impact on the world stage.

Why choose Essex?
  • 6th in UK for politics and international studies research (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
  • Top 10 in the UK for Politics and International Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2024)
  • 91% of our postgraduate graduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2024)
Dr Allyson Benton, Dean of Postgraduate Study, Department of Government at the University of Essex.
Learn more about international relations at Essex

Meet the lecturers, discover our famous alumni, and learn about postgraduate student life in the Department of Government.

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Learn more about upcoming open days at the University of Essex and book your place.
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Achieve international relations authority

Our PhD programme provides you with advanced research training and supervision by leading global scholars.

Our students have published in acclaimed political science journals such as Electoral Studies, International Organization, International Studies Quarterly, Journal of Politics, Journal of Conflict Resolution, Journal of Education Policy and Journal of Peace Research.

Our Department of Government offers two routes to a research degree:  

  • PhD Government
  • PhP (doctoral programme)  

Both are three-year programmes. A PhP is normally for students without a prior Masters degree and you normally take a number of taught modules in your first year.

Find your academic supervisor

Enter your research interest and discover experts open to supervision at the University of Essex.

Why research here?
  • 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
  • We are 6th in UK for research power in politics and international studies (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
  • Home to renowned international relations scholars whose research ranks among the most cited and influential globally
Department of Government logo for the academic department at the University of Essex.
Learn more about international relations at Essex

Find funding opportunities, discover scholarships and learn more about postgraduate research in the Department of Government.

Explore postgraduate research in the Department of Government
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Apply to Essex
Find out how to apply to Essex and discover helpful resources to support your application.
Join an open day
Learn more about upcoming open days at the University of Essex and book your place.
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