International Relations
International relations is the study of how states, international organisations and non-state actors interact across borders, and how the norms, institutions and power dynamics of the international system shape what is possible in global politics. It is a discipline that engages with the history and current structure of the international order, the causes and management of conflict, the politics of trade and economic interdependence, the international dimensions of human rights and environmental governance, and the theoretical frameworks through which these phenomena can be understood.
At the University of Edinburgh, this four-year full-time programme includes a year abroad, providing the opportunity to study at a partner institution in another country. Edinburgh is well positioned for international relations study, as Scotland's capital and a city with significant engagement in international policy, diplomacy and global affairs. You will study the major theories of international relations, the history of the international system from the Westphalian settlement to the present, the political economy of globalisation, international law and institutions, security studies and specific regional and thematic issues in contemporary world politics.
The four-year Scottish degree structure gives time for ideas to develop fully across the discipline.
Graduates work in diplomatic services, international organisations including the United Nations and its agencies, the European institutions, NGOs, international development bodies, journalism, think tanks, the civil service, public affairs and international business. The analytical skills, contextual knowledge and capacity for evidence-based argument that international relations training develops are valued across many sectors that engage with the world beyond national borders. Postgraduate study in international relations, global governance, international law, development studies or security studies is a natural route for those who wish to develop specialist expertise.