International Relations (Political Science)

Would you like to better understand the rapidly changing character of global politics? We provide a distinctive programme that is:

• Comprehensive in its coverage of themes and world regions. We offer multiple courses relating to peace and security, international political economy, human rights, migration and, global environmental issues, among many others. Our courses cover all world regions and/or relations between regions.
• Based in 21^st Century IR: our programme is distinguished by its emphasis on transnational processes and institutions. It draws on interdisciplinary insights and is committed to a broad range of theoretical and methodological approaches within the discipline of International Relations.
• Research-led: our large international teaching staff consists of committed researchers who draw on their own work to teach how to do empirical research and develop theoretical insight. The programme explicitly reflects on the relation between academic work and political practice and includes courses co-taught by academic staff and policymakers. 

Student profile

The programme is intensive and rigorous. You are expected to develop the capacity to work independently and in group settings. Students come to the programme from a wide range of disciplinary and cultural backgrounds.  This diverse group is linked by a shared interest in developing their theoretical and research competences.

International Relations exposes students to a broad palette of theoretical and empirical work, and trains students to develop their own original, useful, and empirically sophisticated research relevant to scholarship and policy. Graduates find careers spanning the public, private, and non-profit sectors. For specific examples from alumni of the International Relations programme, see the webpage on career prospects.

Why study International Relations in Amsterdam?

The University of Amsterdam, a major research university, offers a Master’s programme taught by one of the highest ranking departments in continental Europe. The Graduate School of Social Sciences (GSSS) of Amsterdam provides a vibrant and international academic community. The GSSS values diversity in both research and academic content, academic staff and the student population. The Master’s in International Relations:

• is research-oriented: you learn about your teachers’ research projects and you develop and apply your theoretical and methodological skills in the framework of research projects
• provides students with both academic and professional skills
• offers a highly ranked programme in a diverse and international setting

Ambition in research?

For students interested in this field of study, we also offer a two-year Research Master’s programme in Social Sciences.

Degree certificate

International Relations is a track of the accredited degree programme Political Science. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in Political Science and the title Master of Science (MSc).

Key facts