International Relations Programme
Matthew (the Head of the programme) please describe, what is the International Relations MA programme about?
International relations begins when one engages with the “other”. Our master’s programme in goes beyond the study of international politics and focusses on the processes and key actors of globalisation. The pillars of global security and flash points for conflict make up key elements of the curriculum.
[caption id="attachment_19767" align="alignleft" width="300"] The Head of the programme Matthew Crandall.[/caption]
What are some of the ways that this programme is distinctive?
International Relations at Tallinn University provides a small state perspective to contemporary security problems. Our programme also discusses IR from a multidisciplinary approach that enables the student to go beyond the structures of the state based system to incorporate non-Western perspectives to better understand the world in which we live.
What kind of courses will be offered to students?
Some courses are aimed at improving writing and research skill such as Academic Writing and Research Design. Others focus on more topical subjects such as Geopolitics of Cyber Security and Small States in the Changing World Order. In all of our courses we aim to improve student’s analytical abilities.
What kind of students, with what kind of backgrounds, might be interested in this programme?
Students interested in international politics and global processes are encouraged to apply. A background in international politics or political science is recommended but students from many disciplines such as law, anthropology, economics, and history, can be successful in our programme.
As the students studying International Relations come from literally all four corners of the earth, those interested in a diverse educational experience would be interested in the programme as well.
[caption id="attachment_19762" align="alignright" width="300"] Study trip to NATO Headquarters in Belgium.[/caption]
What are the practical skills that students acquire during their studies?
Students improve their writing and analytical skills which cumulates in the completion of a master’s thesis. A mandatory internship and other practical experiences provide students with experience in international organisations.
What jobs will students go on after they graduate?
As with most degrees in the social sciences, there is not one specific career path available to students. Many students are interested in governmental work (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence). Others are more interested in working in an NGO, which deal with a wide range of topics. Some continue their studies with a PhD and eventually work in academia or a think tank.
What in your view is most exciting about this programme?
I think the most exciting part of the programme is the opportunity to understand the world around us through a unique combination of a multinational student body, practical experience with international organisations, study trips to international institutions, and excellent classroom experiences from a multinational staff.
Text by Matthew Crandall (, the Head of the ).
Read more about the International Relations programme and admission requirements from our .
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