Synopsis
The MSc (International Relations) programme offers an integrative set of courses that aims to equip students with the ability to understand international relations theories and develop their own concepts to deal with real-world situations.Objectives
The MSc (International Relations) programme is designed to help students better comprehend the ever-changing international scene. It aims to:- Develop analytical skills on a wide range of international and transnational issues in an increasingly complex world
- Integrate theory with policy across the spectrum from traditional issues of military security to non-traditional concerns such as energy and food security
- Inculcate a systematic understanding of the relationships among states and non-state actors in a globalised international system
- Provide a sound basis for policy analysis in new and creative ways appropriate to an everchanging policy environment
Relevance
Today, international relations is no longer the exclusive preserve of war, peace and strategic diplomacy. The “high politics” of yesteryear have expanded in scope to accommodate an array of concerns, encompassing international trade and investment, ethnic conflict, terrorism and insurgency, and “non-traditional” security issues relating to the environment, energy, water and health. All of these are interrelated, often in complex and multi-dimensional ways. Against this backdrop, the management of conflict and the search for equity and justice are becoming more challenging by the day. The traditional approach to security is being subsumed by newer concepts such as comprehensive security. At the same time, global and regional multi-lateral institutions are experimenting with new techniques of dealing with conflict, such as preventive diplomacy and humanitarian intervention, often with mixed results.Benefits
It is vital for professionals in the field of international relations not only to be conversant with the intricacies of new concepts and theories, but also to be well-acquainted with the intricacies of strategic planning, design and policy analysis. This is not restricted to makers of public policy. Such knowledge is now essential for corporate planners, members of non-governmnent organisations, media persons and academics.Content
The MSc (International Relations) programme has been specially designed to cover a broad spectrum of issues, including- Theories of International Relations;
- The making of foreign policy;
- Business planning and technology management;
- Area studies, specifically on the Asia-Pacific region.
Students are required to take two core courses. In addition, Masters students completing a dissertation must take five extra courses (three primary and two electives), while those in the non-dissertation stream are expected to take seven courses (five primary and two electives).
Career Advancement
Some of the common career options available to people who complete this programme include positions in government departments dealing with foreign affairs and diplomacy, as well as in media corporations, for example journalists and news programme producers.
Having been trained in International Relations may also provide significant advantages for translators at high-level events and meetings. Other organisations that graduates may consider include NGOs and MNCs.