Program Overview

A postgraduate pathway is a single course comprising two stages of study; Pre-Master’s and Master’s. When you successfully complete the full pathway you will be awarded a Master’s degree from International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth.

Advantage of International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth Postgraduate Pathway

The postgraduate pathway is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds who:

• Require additional English language training
• Come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
• Have been away from studies for a period of time
• Are looking to fine-tune skills already gained during undergraduate studies, employment or both

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing the postgraduate pathway at International College Portsmouth (ICP) at University of Portsmouth is the right decision.

The Pre-Master’s pathway will prepare you for future postgraduate studies by giving you confidence and expertise in areas relevant to your taught Master’s degree. You will:

• Develop your fundamental knowledge and understanding of the basic principles relevant to your chosen degree
• Develop basic numerical techniques, research methodologies and ICT, presentation and communication skills
• Gain a competent set of transferable skills that will help you in your academic studies and future career, and enable you to make informed decisions
• Attain the necessary level of language competence specific to your chosen field of study.

Pre-Master's (Stage 1)

International Relations

If you're interested in national and international organisations, conflict and uncertainty, and in how they are shaping contemporary international relations, our MA International Relations will develop your grasp of the central issues. You'll study the contours of contemporary insecurity, such as weapons of mass destruction (WMD), terrorism and political violence, and explore the power of social movements, political resistance and rebellion.

You'll challenge conventional explanations, develop your own arguments, and participate in key debates about international relations and global politics. You'll develop advanced analytic skills and critical assessment abilities, and learn to write engaging reports, policy briefs and essays.

When you graduate, you'll be in a strong position to generate creative solutions that benefit the global economy and international society. You will be suited for roles in security, development, social policy, governance, advocacy and communications. Previous graduates have gone on to work in parliaments, political parties, third sector and civil society organisations.

On this course you'll:

• Study pressing topics, such as whether global civil society can promote security, development and rights; how terrorism and political violence shape domestic and political affairs; how nuclear and other security threats have evolved; and the role the EU endeavours to play in global politics.
• Build up expertise in issues relating to security and risk and global civil society.
• Develop a high level of specialist knowledge in an area of your choice through your dissertation.
• Have the opportunity to study abroad with one of our European partners.