MSt in International Relations

The Master of Studies (MSt) in International Relations is offered by the Department of Politics and International Studies and provides a two-year, part-time route to a Cambridge Master's degree. The programme is designed for individuals who wish to undertake postgraduate study while pursuing their careers. Our students use the knowledge and analytical skills acquired on the course to further develop their careers in areas as diverse as international organisations, NGOs, teaching, blue chip companies, the civil service, the armed forces, finance, law, film-making, transport and business. We also welcome recent graduates wishing to continue their studies on a part-time basis.

If you are passionate about global politics, international history, international law, the environment and economic affairs then this course is for you. For many of our professional students the course provides a good alternative to an MBA or a route to further graduate study in international politics of related disciplines.

The MSt in International Relations Open Day recording is now available. 

The MSt in IR Open Event was hosted by the Course Director Professor Mette Eilstrup-Sangiovanni on the 3rd of October 2024. The event offered prospective applicants an opportunity to learn more about the course, ask questions, and hear from current students. This is the video of that event.

Why study international relations at Cambridge?

• The unique course structure offers a 2-year, part-time route to a full Cambridge Master's degree.
• You will be able to study while maintaining your current job.
• The University of Cambridge consistently ranks among the top 5 universities in the world.
• You will be taught by internationally renowned scholars.
• You will be part of a highly motivated group of participants from all over the world.
• Successful applicants become members of a Cambridge college and will enjoy full access to the University's world leading facilities.
• During your residential study sessions, you will stay in a traditional Cambridge college and have the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful historic city.

How is the course structured?

The programme is designed for accessibility to international students and those in full or part-time employment.

• Residential Blocks: The course is taught in six intensive residential study blocks during which students live in Cambridge.
• Flexible Learning: Outside of these residential sessions, students can continue their careers alongside their studies in their home countries.
• Expert Teaching: All modules are taught by Cambridge academics who are leading experts in fields such as international politics, law, history, and theory.

Year One: Core and Elective Modules

During the first year, students focus on establishing a foundational knowledge base:

• Core Course: Three modules central to the subject of International Relations.
• Elective Modules: Students select three additional modules for assessment and a further three for credit. The 2025-27 list can be found on the Course Overview page.
• Auditing: In addition to their selected modules, students are encouraged to audit lectures for any modules they have not officially selected.

Year Two: Independent Research

Those who successfully complete the first year move on to a research-focused second year:

• Dissertation: Students research and write a 20,000-word dissertation on a topic of their choice.
• Supervision: Each student is individually supervised by an academic specialist in their specific area of research.

Where are our MSt students from?

The MSt in International Relations attracts students from a broad range of professional and geographical backgrounds. The course admits some 50 students per cohort from every corner of the world. The graphic below indicates the global spread of the past five cohorts.