London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) campus
Master of Science
On Campus
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London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
London
United Kingdom

History of International Relations

About

The History of International Relations MSc at LSE offers a one-year, full-time program that explores the historical evolution of international relations, from early diplomacy to the modern-day global system. Students will study pivotal historical events, such as the World Wars, the Cold War, and the development of international organizations, to understand how past events have shaped current global politics. The program provides a comprehensive historical perspective on the international relations field, integrating political, economic, and cultural factors that have influenced global diplomacy.

This program is ideal for students seeking to deepen their knowledge of historical political processes and their impact on contemporary global issues. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, international organizations, policy research, and diplomacy, where historical insight is essential for analyzing and addressing global challenges.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$38,806.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

Program Title: Master of Science in History of International Relations
Degree Type: Master of Science (MSc)
Duration: 1 year
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Application Deadline: 12th June 2026
Location: University of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Field of Study: History
Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Semester 1 โ€“ Foundations of the History of International Relations

  • Introduction to International Relations History
  • Theories and Approaches in International Relations
  • The Role of War and Diplomacy in Global History
  • Historical Evolution of Global Power Dynamics

Semester 2 โ€“ Advanced History of International Relations

  • The Cold War and its Global Impact
  • Globalization and Post-Colonial International Relations
  • International Treaties and Global Governance
  • Research Methods in the History of International Relations

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can pursue careers in academia, diplomacy, international relations consultancy, and global policy analysis. Potential roles include historical researcher, policy advisor, international relations analyst, diplomatic consultant, and global governance expert. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in international organizations, government agencies, think tanks, NGOs, and foreign affairs departments, contributing to historical research, policy-making, and diplomatic strategy. The program also provides a strong foundation for further academic study in international relations, political science, or history.

Why Choose This Program

This program offers a deep and analytical exploration of the history of international relations, providing students with the tools to understand the evolution of global diplomacy, power structures, and international conflicts. By examining key historical events and global power shifts, students gain valuable insights into modern international politics and governance. LSEโ€™s emphasis on research-based learning ensures that graduates are well-equipped to engage with global political issues, contribute to diplomatic efforts, and undertake in-depth historical research in international relations.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)20 7405 7686
Email: admissions@lse.ac.uk
Address: London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE, United Kingdom