Security, Conflict and International Development MA, PGDip, PGCert by distance learning
1-2 years, full- or part-time
Why do humanitarian emergencies occur and how can we better respond to them? What better way to explore some of the most pressing concerns in contemporary global politics than by joining a global learning community dedicated to understanding them? Together you’ll interrogate the complex and evolving relationship between security, conflict and international development in a globalised world.
Course information
UK fee £9,550
International fee £9,550
Taught by History
Admissions and course enquiries
+44 (0)116 252 5281
Submit a course enquiry
Course description
Course description
This degree will provide you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the range of activities that underpin contemporary humanitarianism. Focusing on the dynamics and transformations of conflict in the 21st century, this degree explores the overlapping security, justice and developmental challenges of countries experiencing and emerging from conflict.
Designed specifically for those currently working – or hoping to work – in humanitarian activities or international development, the degree explores the myriad challenges that humanitarian agencies face when operating across the world. Covering issues such as conflict prevention, security sector reform, post-conflict justice and the rule of law, this degree offers you the space to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the key challenges that confront humanitarian community today.
You will complete two core modules on ‘Contemporary Conflict Analysis’ and ‘The Political Economy of International Development’. You can then choose two option modules from our extensive list of interdisciplinary subjects, which, along with your dissertation, allow you to tailor your degree in a way that speaks to your own interests and expertise.
By choosing to study by distance learning, you will have the flexibility to fit your study around existing commitments and enhance your career prospects without having to leave employment.
What's the difference?
- For the MA, you will study both core modules plus two option modules plus your dissertation.
- For the PGDip, you will study both core modules plus two option modules.
- For the PGCert, you will study just the two core modules.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
2:1 degree or equivalent in Politics, History, International Relations or another related subject.
Equivalent relevant professional experience may be considered.
English Language Requirements
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability.
Fees and funding
Fees and funding
UK Students
Starting in October 2025 or January 2026
- MA: £9,550
- PGDip: £6,360
- PGCert: £3,180
Did you know you can apply for a Government Postgraduate Loan? Find out if you're eligible.
Find out more about how to pay and scholarships and funding.
International Students
Starting in October 2025 or January 2026
- MA: £9,550
- PGDip: £6,360
- PGCert: £3,180
Find out more about how to pay and scholarships and funding.
Careers and employability
Careers and employability
Our postgraduate degrees are an excellent way to enhance your expertise and career prospects. A postgraduate course in politics and/or international relations provides a foundation for a wide range of career options. You may seek to use your knowledge to work in government service, international organisations or areas of political research and journalism. Or you may opt to look for employment in an unrelated field such as banking, business or teaching where your MA will be respected as a postgraduate qualification.
Our Career and Employability Service is here to support you – by email, phone or skype – with advice on interviews, CVs, work experience and more. From registration to Graduation and beyond, they are here to help you reach your professional goals.
Related courses
Course structure
Core modules
Core modules
Plus your Dissertation (MA only)
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Option modules
Option modules
Choose two option modules from:
- The Politics of Conflict and Violence
- International Security
- Post Cold War World Order
- Theories of International Relations
- The International Politics of Protection
- The Politics of Human Rights
- Strategy in the Modern World
- Critical War Studies
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Why Leicester
Distance learning lets you apply new knowledge and insights to your working life while you are still studying. Many students choose to tackle work-related topics in their dissertations.
Our staff play leading roles in cutting-edge global research networks, actively advising and engaging with global policy communities, civil society, the media and public.
Politics and International Relations at Leicester offers a wide range of option modules, letting you shape your studies to fit to your own research interests or professional development.
You’ll have the opportunity to share ideas and debate with a diverse and interesting group of students, many of whom work in sectors related to security and conflict.
Teaching and learning
You are provided with a weekly reading list accompanied by questions or exercises designed by the Course Convenor to get you thinking and help you engage critically with that week’s literature.
The best way to make sense of what you read is to discuss it with others. Learning is a collaborative process and this is why the online forums accessed through Blackboard are central to our teaching. Each week you should use these forums to discuss your reading, ask questions, share ideas and debate arguments.
Alongside your weekly reading and discussions you are expected to complete module activities, designed to build a supportive online community of students as well as develop your key scholarly skills. Credit-bearing assessments for each module include a reflective statement and an end of module essay.
Your modules are structured enough to keep your studies on track whilst remaining flexible to the unique needs of distance learners, many of whom we know combine studies with demanding jobs.
You will be supported by a dedicated team of tutors and support staff available through Blackboard and email. Administrative support is available by telephone, and you can contact your personal tutor via telephone or Skype. You will be encouraged to contact other students to share views, ideas and issues and to create a virtual student community.
For the MA you must complete a dissertation.
Key dates
Start date: 13 January 2025
Application deadline for January 2025 start: 23 December 2024
Start date: 6 October 2025
Application deadline for October 2025 start: TBD
Start date: 12 January 2026
Application deadline for January 2026 start: TBD
Apply now
| Course | Qualification | Duration | Start Dates | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course Security, Conflict and International Development | Qualification MA | Duration 1 year, full-time | Start Dates October each year | Availability Apply Now |
| Course Security, Conflict and International Development | Qualification MA | Duration 2 years, part-time | Start Dates January and October each year | Availability Apply Now |
| Course Security, Conflict and International Development | Qualification PGDip | Duration 2 years, part-time | Start Dates January and October each year | Availability Apply Now |
| Course Security, Conflict and International Development | Qualification PGCert | Duration 1 year, part-time | Start Dates January and October each year | Availability Apply Now |
