About the course
This course aims to increase your understanding of the multiple factors that affect international relations as well as the ethical and political issues around peacekeeping, security and state-building. It prepares you to work internationally in the fields of politics, economics or business.
You learn the key concepts of international relations theory and apply your knowledge to analyse the effect of dominating political ideologies, such as those that led to the Cold War and Post-Cold War eras. Using a practice-based approach incorporating real business situations, the course develops your understanding of areas like the growth in NGOs; the importance of the UN; the globalisation of industry; and the significance of multicultural communities made up of economic migrants and refugees.
In your final Master’s Capstone project, you can choose one of three options - business dissertation, business live project or professional practice – and specialise in an aspect of international relations that matches your interests or career aspirations.
Every taught unit on this course is delivered in a six-week block with six entry points through the year, allowing you to start at a time that suits you.
Why choose this course?
- Explore the interdisciplinary nature of international relations and how factors such as culture and language impact on their management
- Gain real insight into peacekeeping and security though studying with experienced, research-active academics and practitioners including a Clinical Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies with experience in peacekeeping as a military officer
- Develop your capacity to think critically and independently in evaluating different interpretations of globalisation and its impact on global trends
Course Leader - Dr Ourania Dimitraki
Dr. Ourania Dimitraki is a Senior Lecturer in Economics and Finance with over 15 years of experience teaching at universities in the UK and Greece. She brings a wealth of expertise in applied economics, particularly in defence and peace economics, and is skilled at engaging students from diverse backgrounds.
Before academia, Dr. Ourania worked as a governmental official in Greece. She holds an MRes in Politics (2007) and a PhD in Economics (2012) from Brunel University, UK, following her undergraduate studies in Economics at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
Her research focuses on the impact of political regimes, defence policies, and social dynamics on economic well-being, particularly in less developed countries. Known for her rigorous research and clear communication, Dr. Ourania has managed complex projects and produced influential publications. She is also committed to expanding her involvement in international peace research programs.
Units
- Brand Communication And Reputation Management (MAR036-6) Compulsory
- Business Dissertation (MAR042-6) Compulsory
- Intercultural Business Competencies (MAR038-6) Compulsory
- International Relations (MAR044-6) Compulsory
- Peacekeeping And Security (MAR045-6) Compulsory
- Performance Achievement Planning (BSS072-6) Compulsory
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above.
The University of Bedfordshire warmly welcomes students from all over the world.
Individual courses may vary, but we generally require an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above.
To ensure a smooth application process, we have dedicated pages with detailed information about country-specific requirements. You can find information on our generic entry requirements too, if your county is not listed.
English Language
The English Language requirement for this course is 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in any subtest) in IELTS, or an equivalent SELT. Have a look at our webpage for a list of English language qualifications we accept. If you do not have the required level of English for your chosen degree, we offer pre-sessional courses to enhance your language skills before commencing your studies.
We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, so please do not hesitate to reach out to our international admissions team for further assistance. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant academic community.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above.
The University of Bedfordshire warmly welcomes students from all over the world.
Individual courses may vary, but we generally require an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above.
To ensure a smooth application process, we have dedicated pages with detailed information about country-specific requirements. You can find information on our generic entry requirements too, if your county is not listed.
English Language
The English Language requirement for this course is 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in any subtest) in IELTS, or an equivalent SELT. Have a look at our webpage for a list of English language qualifications we accept. If you do not have the required level of English for your chosen degree, we offer pre-sessional courses to enhance your language skills before commencing your studies.
We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, so please do not hesitate to reach out to our international admissions team for further assistance. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant academic community.
How will this course improve my career prospects?
On completing the course, you will have the skills to pursue career opportunities in the following areas/industries: government; non-governmental organisations (NGOs); UN; international arbitration; social justice; marketing.
This course is an appropriate foundation for further academic study at either MPhil or PhD level.
Fees and funding
The full-time standard fee for a taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £10,000 per year. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees and living costs. Visit www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan
Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email admission@beds.ac.uk
The full-time standard fee for a taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £16,900
If you have any questions around fees and funding, please email international@beds.ac.uk
Fees and funding
The full-time standard fee for a taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £10,000 per year. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees and living costs. Visit www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan
Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email admission@beds.ac.uk
The full-time standard fee for a taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £16,900
If you have any questions around fees and funding, please email international@beds.ac.uk
Extra Costs
The Business School facilities
We believe that our estate impacts how our students learn and engage. To support this belief we have invested heavily in our facilities to shape the physical and intellectual environment of learning.
Business Pods
Our specially created teaching spaces are designed like modern offices rather than a traditional classroom, including brain storming and boardroom areas, an IT suite and a social area.
Moot Court
Our Moot Court was opened in October 2009 after extensive refurbishment work and the installation of the latest electronic equipment. Reserved exclusively for use by law staff and students, the room routinely hosts lectures and seminars, and is designed to enable communication and group work in class.
Reuters Finance Room
The Thomson Reuters Eikon facility provides trading information for all listed companies around the world. It gathers the essential news, data, analytics, commentary and insights in one place.
Here we use it in making case studies on companies and for building students' portfolio of investment.
Luton Campus Library
The modern library at the Luton campus has everything you would expect from a world-class university – and more.
Opened in summer 2016, its seven storeys building is a landmark for the Luton campus, offering students silent-study rooms, group-work areas, presentation-practice rooms and a café.
How to Apply
UK students applying for most postgraduate degrees at the University of Bedfordshire should apply direct using our admissions form
You can apply online using our applications portal.
Find out more about how to apply as an International student
How to Apply
UK students applying for most postgraduate degrees at the University of Bedfordshire should apply direct using our admissions form
You can apply online using our applications portal.
Find out more about how to apply as an International student
