3 Qualities that Set the Best International Relations Degree Programmes Apart

Top international relations courses prepare students to address global issues

International relations are complex, as is the process of choosing the perfect course that will provide the most comprehensive and enriching learning experience. University rankings, faculty reputation, and course content may all factor into the choices of prospective students, but there are many more aspects to consider when making this decision that will influence your overall satisfaction during your studies as well as your future career prospects.

There are a few key qualities that set the best international relations degree programmes apart from the rest, and they all have to do with encouraging students to take an active role in their learning and thinking. Keep reading to find out what these criteria are and why they are so important to this dynamic field.

The Best International Relations Degree Programmes Teach Skills Future Employers Look For

A great international relations degree course will prepare students for the demands of the workplace. According to the World Economic Forum, employer demand for critical thinking skills has more than doubled over the past few years, and this is especially important in the international relations field. International relations are very intricate, and numerous theories exist to analyze the origins of war, nature of power, behaviour of states, and more, meaning working in the sector requires a multifarious approach.  

However, it's more than just varied theoretical understanding that is required to learn critical thinking. Rigorous debate and independent research, both of which require solid argumentation capabilities, are additional key components to developing skills demanded by the workplace, and the best international relations courses incorporate these into their curricula.

In addition to being able to think reflectively and objectively analyse facts, employers in the international relations field are also seeking a number of other soft skills in their new hires, such as intercultural communication and understanding of social diversity.

A course that teaches students to view complexities from a variety of lenses, and provide well-rounded analysis along with proposed solutions that can satisfy a variety of stakeholders is one that both students and their future employers can value.

A focus on critical thinking is something students should look for when choosing a course

Student Diversity Contributes to an Enriching Learning Environment

The benefits gained from a top international relations masters degree are complemented and enhanced by student diversity. A multinational student body brings a myriad of perspectives from a multitude of cultural backgrounds to the table, enriching the development of skills so crucial in the field.

In offering competing interpretations and viewpoints on various global issues to the learning environment, students are able to invaluably enrich the perspectives of their peers and vice versa. A student pursuing a masters in international relations may aspire to contribute to matters such as trade policies, diplomatic relations, peace talks, or to any of a number of other paths this field provides. The success of all of these endeavours depends on reaching mutual understanding between people of different backgrounds.

By undertaking a course that fosters rich discussion and international cooperation, international relations graduates are ready to take what they have learned from their peers and apply it to their future careers.

A Quality Learning Process Requires Guidance by Skilled Instructors With Cutting-Edge Expertise

An enriching degree programme needs to be designed and delivered by individuals with the skills to pose challenging and thought-provoking questions that encourage students to deeply and critically engage with their study materials and their discussions with each other. This is where high-quality instructors with cutting-edge expertise make all the difference.

Both the study and practice of international relations is interdisciplinary, blending economics, history, political science, and more to examine topics like conflict resolution, globalisation, foreign policy, and others. Specialised academics actively engaging in research bring expertise of the most contemporary matters to the learning process, thus providing students with the most current and relevant education available.

Instructors at the forefront of research in their fields provide added value to the learning experience

In addition, a course that encourages the development of innovative teaching methods among its faculty will approach its students in more creative ways, reinforcing the knowledge they gain during their studies, and arming them with unique and practical insights that prepare them for what awaits upon graduation.

Are you looking for an MA in International Relations that fulfils these criteria?

Consider QMUL Online for your postgraduate studies.