Politics and International Relations

The purpose of this programme is to prepare you for doctoral study, at Reading or elsewhere, in any area of Politics and International Relations. It is suitable for both graduates in Politics and/or International Relations and students with a background in other academic subjects.

You can select any modules that are offered by the Department of Politics and International Relations. You are, however, required to undertake thorough research training, delivered via three modules:

• Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods
• Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods
• Philosophical Issues in the Social Sciences.

This training forms the basis of your 13,000-15,000-word dissertation, supported by an expert adviser with knowledge of your area. The programme has Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) recognition; at its conclusion, graduates are therefore qualified to apply for three-year (as opposed to 1+3) ESRC studentships.

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A strong foundation for future doctoral study

You will be fully prepared for doctoral research in any sub-discipline of Politics and International Relations, such as:

• Diplomacy
• Strategic Studies
• Public Administration
• Political Theory.

Besides the research training modules, you’ll be encouraged to tailor your studies to your future PhD research area. This approach aims to facilitate the completion of your doctoral dissertation within the three years allotted by most funding bodies.

The high degree of focus distinguishes our MRes programme from a more generalist MA. If you are unsure about the implications, we encourage you to consult our programme director.

Department of Politics and International Relations at University of Reading

• Recognised for research quality: 97% of our research outputs are rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, meaning that the University of Reading is 6th highest in the UK for research outputs (Times Higher Education analysis of the latest REF 2021 – Politics and International Studies, when scoring by GPA Output)
• Wide-ranging expertise: Our areas of strength include Applied Political Theory, Comparative Politics, Public Policy Analysis, Conflict, Security, Strategy and International Relations.
• Research-led, relevant teaching: Our academics regularly feature in academic literature and the media, offering their expertise on current issues. Learn more about how we engage in real-world politics.
• Exciting optional modules: Across all of our master's degrees, you’ll have the flexibility to study the subjects you're most passionate about.

Wide variety of teaching and assessment methods: Teaching primarily occurs through small discussion-based seminars, supplemented by lectures and other activities. Assessments range from traditional essays and oral presentations to various ‘real-world’ assignments such as policy papers.