Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective MSc International Relations Applicants

Questions:

1. Could you please send me information about your MSc IR/MSc IR Research programme?
2. How do I apply online?
3. Does the School or IR Department hold an Open Day for prospective MSc IR/MSc IR Research applicants?
4. Will I be expected to attend an interview?
5. Do I need to submit a writing sample with my application?
6. What are the residency requirements for the course?
7. What is the difference between the MSc IR and MSc IR Research?
8. What is the difference between the MSc IR/MSc IR Research and the MSc Global Politics?
9. What is the difference between the MSc in International Relations and the MSc in International Relations Theory?
10. I am invited to give two MSc degree programme choices on the application form. Is it advisable to list the MSc IR and the MSc IR Research programmes separately, as choices 1 and 2, as I am really keen to be considered for the International Relations discipline?
11. What qualifications are required for admission to the MSc IR/MSc IR Research?
12. I don't have an educational background in IR or a related discipline but I have a first-class degree in another field and have a keen interest in international affairs. Is it worthwhile my applying?
13. I don't have an educational background in IR but I have a first class degree in another field and have work experience in an IR-related field. Is it worthwhile my applying?
14. I have a poor first degree in IR/related discipline, but I have an MSc in a different field. Is it worthwhile my applying?
15. I have no academic background in International Relations or related disciplines but I do have IR-related work experience. Is it worthwhile applying?
16. Do I have to sit the GRE or GMAT tests?
17. Where can I find information about subjects available to study on the MSc IR/MSc IR Research programme?
18. Are all courses that are listed in the Graduate Prospectus offered each year?
19. I want to list MSc IR/MSc IR Research as my second choice. Will this damage my chances of admission?
20. I applied last year and was rejected. What is the likelihood of succeeding with a second application?
21. I would like to know more about how the IR Department and MSc IR/MSc IR Research programme operate. Where can I find such information?
22. I am thinking of applying for the MSc IR and I would like to know more about the content of the compulsory course IR410 International Politics. Could you provide this?
23. I am thinking of applying for the MSc IR Research and I would like to know more about the content of the compulsory course IR436 Theories of International Relations. Could you provide this?
24. What are the methods of assessment?
25. Am I required to be here after the exams finish?
26. What is the difference between a half unit and a full unit course?
27. How much are the tuition fees?
28. Are there any scholarships available for those applying for the MSc IR?
29. I would like to meet the selector or another member of the academic staff to find out more about the MSc IR/MSc IR Research programme. Can this be arranged?
30. What is the deadline for MSc IR/MSc IR Research applicants?
31. Can I apply to take the MSc IR/MSc IR Research part-time? If so, how long does it take and are lectures and seminars held in the evenings?
32. What is the difference between the MSc IR/MSc IR Research and the MPhil/PhD?
33. How do I apply for the MSc IR/PhD programmes so as to be considered for Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding, i.e. the 1+3 Research Fellowship award?
34. If I am accepted for the MSc IR and then decide I would like to switch to the MSc IR Research or vice versa, will this be possible?
35. If I am rejected for the MSc IR/MSc IR Research (e.g. because it is full) but am accepted for my second choice, will I be able to transfer to the MSc IR/MSc IR Research on arrival at the School?
36. Is it possible to defer an offer of a place on the MSc IR/MSc IR Research to the following year?
37. If I have a query about the application process, can I raise this with the Department instead of the School's Graduate Admissions Office?
38. If my application is unsuccessful but I would like to reapply next year, how can I get feedback on why I was not accepted?
39. Does the International Relations Department have any special arrangements with other universities?

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This page last modified on October 22, 2008

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