Master of Arts in International Relations: Historical Perspective
Explore the historical roots of global politics and governance through a unique interdisciplinary lens.
Best for:Best for students with a strong interest in political history, international relations, and global governance who seek to understand contemporary geopolitics through historical lenses.
Overview
This Master of Arts programme at Utrecht University examines the dynamics of international relations by analysing historical perspectives on cooperation, conflict, and global governance. Students will investigate how past empires, state interactions, and global governance structures shape contemporary international politics. The curriculum integrates core themes such as conflict and security, Europe’s role in the world, and globalization, offering a deep historical understanding of modern global challenges. Ideal for those seeking to bridge historical analysis with current geopolitical debates, this programme fosters critical thinking and evidence-based insights into international affairs.
What you'll do
- Engage in critical analysis of historical and contemporary international relations through interdisciplinary coursework.
- Develop research skills to investigate the legacy of empires and their impact on modern global governance.
- Participate in seminars and discussions on core themes such as conflict, security, Europe’s global role, and globalization.
- Conduct independent research projects focusing on historical perspectives of international politics.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty to explore case studies and theoretical frameworks in international relations.
- Develop written and oral communication skills to present research findings and historical analyses effectively.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, History, or a related field
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; IELTS overall band score of 6.5 or TOEFL internet-based score of 93 (or equivalent)
Instruction: English
- Proficient academic writing and research skills
- Ability to analyse historical and contemporary political documents
- Strong critical thinking and analytical reasoning
- Familiarity with international relations theories and historical methodologies
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior work experience required
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Utrecht University portal. Required documents include a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal. Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s background.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
- Research proposal (if required)
- Reference letters (if applicable)
Contact
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