Security, Conflict and International Development MA, PGDip, PGCert by distance learning University of Leicester

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.

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 the 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.

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 the public.
• Politics and International Relations at Leicester offers a wide range of option modules, letting you shape your studies to fit 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.

Core modules

• Contemporary Conflict Analysis
• Political Economy of International Development

Plus your Dissertation (MA only)

Option modules

Choose two optional 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

The 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.

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.