Security, Intelligence and Diplomacy

Entry requirements

The minimum entry level required for this course is as follows:

• a first or second-class honours degree from a recognised university or,
• a recognised professional qualification with relevant work experience

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

The MA Security, Intelligence and Diplomacy is a multidisciplinary master’s degree that combines core themes from security studies, intelligence analysis and diplomacy to provide a comprehensive understanding of global security and international relations. Drawing on expertise from the University’s Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (BUCSIS), the programme explores key areas including intelligence and international security since 1939, intelligence tradecraft, case studies of intelligence success and failure, international law and diplomacy, foreign policy analysis, global diplomacy, and contemporary security challenges.

Taught through a mix of lectures, seminars and small‑group tutorials, the course is designed to rapidly bring students to an advanced level of understanding, whatever their prior experience. Buckingham’s small academic community fosters close interaction between students and faculty, ensuring personalised support and engagement throughout the year‑long programme.

Assessment is typically through a combination of written work, examinations and an individually supervised 10,000‑word dissertation, allowing students to pursue a specialist topic of interest.

The MA prepares graduates for careers in foreign and other ministries, international organisations, journalism, global civil society and related fields. It also provides a strong foundation for further academic research and doctoral study.

Information for international students

We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.

The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.

English levels

If English is not your first language, please check our undergraduate English language requirements. If your English levels don’t meet our minimum requirements, you may be interested in applying for our Pre-sessional English Language Foundation Programmes.

Fees and funding

Please visit our website for the latest information relating to our tuition fees, scholarships and bursaries.