International Relations and Emerging Technologies

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Overview

What if you could explore how emerging technologies are reshaping global politics, security and governance?

Our MA International Relations and Emerging Technologies will equip you with the knowledge and skills to understand and respond to these changes.

This interdisciplinary programme builds on international relations and peace studies, exploring how technologies such as artificial intelligence, space systems and other emerging innovations are influencing global power, conflict and cooperation.

You will examine how states, organisations and other actors engage with these technologies, and the implications for international security, human rights and global governance.

You will develop a strong understanding of international relations alongside the ability to engage critically with technological change. The programme introduces key concepts in areas such as technology governance, ethics and responsible innovation, while building your confidence in analysing complex global issues.

As you progress, you will explore how emerging technologies intersect with issues such as security, conflict, development and global inequality. You will develop the skills to assess risks, evaluate policy responses and understand the wider societal and political implications of technological change.

The programme prepares you for careers in international policy, governance, security and development, as well as further postgraduate study or research in international relations, peace studies and related fields.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above.

Plus minimum of: GCSE grade 4 or C or above in English (or equivalent qualification).
English language requirements: Minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

Teaching, learning and assessment

You will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars and workshops, where you will explore key concepts in international relations and examine how emerging technologies are shaping global issues.

Teaching places a strong emphasis on discussion, critical analysis and engagement with real-world case studies.

The programme brings together perspectives from international relations, peace studies and technology-related disciplines. You will develop your ability to analyse complex global challenges, drawing on both theoretical frameworks and contemporary examples.

Throughout the programme, you will build your skills in research, analysis and communication. You will learn how to evaluate policy, engage with debates around governance and ethics, and present your ideas clearly and effectively.

A major component of the programme is the dissertation or policy-focused project, where you will explore a topic of your choice in depth. This allows you to apply your knowledge to a specific issue and demonstrate your analytical and critical skills.

Assessment varies by module and may include essays, policy briefs, reports, presentations and examinations. You will receive feedback to support your development, with assessments designed to reflect both academic and policy-focused work.

Fees, finance and scholarships

Tuition fee 2026

Home: £8,340
International: £15,700

Additional costs

There may be additional costs that you may incur as a student. Though these are not essential to your programme of study you need to be aware of them as a student of the University. A list of the sort of costs you might expect can be found on our fees and finance section.

Financial support

See our fees and financial support section.

Postgraduate Master's Loan

If you live in England you may be able to apply for a special Government-funded Master's Loan to help pay your tuition fees and living costs. You don't have to pay the loan back until you're earning a certain amount of money.

Scholarships

Every year we award numerous non-repayable scholarships to UK, EU and international students on the basis of academic excellence, personal circumstances or economic hardship. For full details, visit our scholarships section.

Career prospects

After graduating, you will be well prepared for roles in international policy, governance and security, particularly in areas where emerging technologies are shaping global affairs.

Career opportunities include roles in government, international organisations, NGOs and consultancies, as well as positions focused on technology governance, ethics, responsible innovation and regulatory analysis.

The programme also supports careers in peacebuilding, development and security-related fields, as well as progression to further postgraduate study or doctoral research in international relations, peace studies or related disciplines.

Career opportunities

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the careers section.

Support for your studies

At Bradford, we’re committed to supporting your success, well-being and future ambitions.

We’re here to provide everything you need to make the most of your time with us, ensuring you not only excel in your studies, but also step confidently into the world of graduate employment.

In addition to the support you receive from your academic tutors, our Student Support Services are here for you throughout your journey - before, during, and after your studies.

Terms and conditions of study

The University has a set of terms and conditions for all students accepting an offer to study on a course here at Bradford. This is called The Student Contract. This document sets out the Terms and Conditions which apply when you accept an offer of a place on a programme of study at the University of Bradford.

View our Student Contract for further details.

Transparency statement

Information about this programme and its modules has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publication, but changes may occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of teaching. Any change which impacts the terms and conditions of an applicant’s offer will be communicated to them.