Best Universities in the UK for a Master's in International Relations: Fees and Scholarships

Pursuing a Master’s in International Relations (IR) in the UK offers an opportunity to gain a global perspective on diplomacy, security, and global politics from some of the world’s leading institutions. If you're considering this path, here’s a guide to some of the best universities in the UK for IR, along with information on fees and available scholarships.

1. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Program: MSc International Relations
Fees: £29,064 per year (international students), £16,968 per year (UK/EU students)
Scholarships: LSE offers various scholarships including the LSE Graduate Support Scheme and the LSE PhD Studentship for those pursuing further research. Additionally, there are several external funding options such as the Chevening Scholarships and the Commonwealth Scholarships.

Why Choose LSE?
LSE is renowned for its global focus and excellent faculty. Its MSc International Relations program emphasizes global issues and policy analysis, making it a top choice for students aiming for careers in international diplomacy, security, and global governance.

2. University of Oxford

Program: MSc in Global Governance and Diplomacy
Fees: £30,990 per year (international students), £15,990 per year (UK/EU students)
Scholarships: Oxford provides numerous scholarships, including the Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme, and the Clarendon Fund. External scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth also apply.

Why Choose Oxford?
Oxford’s program focuses on global governance and diplomacy, offering an intensive study of global political institutions and strategies. The university’s global network and prestigious reputation provide a strong foundation for careers in Masters in International Relations in UK.

3. University of St Andrews

Program: MLitt in International Relations
Fees: £25,960 per year (international students), £13,780 per year (UK/EU students)
Scholarships: St Andrews offers various scholarships including the St Andrews International Excellence Scholarship and the Global Scholarship. Additionally, there are other funding opportunities through external sources such as the Chevening Scholarships.

Why Choose St Andrews?
St Andrews combines a rich academic tradition with a personalized learning experience. The MLitt in International Relations provides a comprehensive study of global politics, with a strong emphasis on research and critical thinking.

4. King’s College London

Program: MA in International Relations
Fees: £26,610 per year (international students), £15,690 per year (UK/EU students)
Scholarships: King’s offers several scholarships, including the King’s College London International Postgraduate Scholarship and the King’s College London Alumni Discount. External funding options include Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.

Why Choose King’s College London?
King’s College London provides a dynamic and research-focused environment. The MA in International Relations program benefits from London’s status as a global political hub, offering students unparalleled access to international institutions and professionals.

5. University of Edinburgh

Program: MSc International Relations
Fees: £27,200 per year (international students), £14,800 per year (UK/EU students)
Scholarships: Edinburgh offers scholarships like the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship and the School of Social and Political Science (SSPS) Scholarships. There are also external funding options such as Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.

Why Choose Edinburgh?
The University of Edinburgh’s program is known for its interdisciplinary approach and strong focus on global security and diplomacy. Its location in Scotland’s capital, with its rich political history, adds an extra dimension to the academic experience.

6. University of Manchester

Program: MA International Relations
Fees: £24,500 per year (international students), £12,000 per year (UK/EU students)
Scholarships: The University of Manchester offers various scholarships including the Manchester International Excellence Scholarships and the Alumni Scholarship. There are also external options such as Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.

Why Choose Manchester?
Manchester’s program provides a comprehensive exploration of international relations theory and practice. The university’s strong emphasis on research and its extensive alumni network make it a great choice for those aiming for careers in global policy and diplomacy.

Key Considerations

• Fees: Tuition fees for international students are generally higher than for UK/EU students. However, many universities offer scholarships and financial aid options.
• Scholarships: Look into both university-specific scholarships and external funding sources. Scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth are competitive but can significantly reduce the financial burden.
• Location: Consider the city and its relevance to your career goals. London, for instance, offers proximity to numerous international institutions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right university for a Masters in International Relations UK depends on various factors including your career goals, budget, and preferred location. The UK offers numerous prestigious options with diverse programs and significant scholarship opportunities. Be sure to research each program’s specifics, application requirements, and scholarship opportunities to find the best fit for your academic and professional aspirations.