M.A. in International Relations, Security, and Strategy

O.P. Jindal Global University (MA IRSS)

Loading

INR 4,50,000 / $6,000 USD

24-36 months

16 courses with an estimate student effort of 10 hours a week

Master's degree

Offered by O.P. Jindal Global University (accredited)

100% online

Hands-on learning from anywhere, no travel required

Flexible elective options

Option to get a minor specialisation in Public Policy. Learn more

A master's degree that integrates international relations, security, and strategy into a single seamless programme

The Master of Arts in International Relations, Security, and Strategy is the only online Indian master's degree to combine international relations, security, and strategy into a single seamless programme.

Offered by the Jindal School of International Affairs (JSIA) at O.P. Jindal Global University, this programme builds on successful best practices and pedagogies from the on-campus programmes, which have been in existence for over ten years. The university has been ranked as India’s #1 University in social sciences, arts, and humanities (QS University Rankings 2022), and JGU programmes are accredited by National Assessment and Accreditation Council and it is University Grants Commission (UGC) entitled.

This degree programme is ideal for students and working professionals who want to build new career paths in civil and diplomatic services, conflict resolution, political journalism, international justice, international economic development, humanitarian relief, human rights advocacy, political and economic risk analysis, and more.

Graduates from Jindal School of International Affairs have gone on to work at organizations such as: -

  • Ministry of External Affairs India
  • Ministry of Human Resource & Development, India
  • Niti Aayog
  • FICCI
  • CII
  • Embassy of Lebanon
  • Embassy of Peru
  • CRY
  • Outlook
  • BBC, NDTV
  • Wipro, McKinsey & Company, Reliance Foundation, and Invest India.

What makes this master's degree unique?

Dissertation opportunity

This programme offers a Master's dissertation track in the final semester. This track is a culmination of research-based assessment of the degree programme, aimed towards helping students pursue independent and self-directed research projects.

Learn to decode complexities behind international affairs

In this programme, you will develop a structured and in-depth understanding of complex global events, and refine your ability to decipher them. You’ll learn to understand and evaluate international politics, transnational relations, and geopolitical issues with a holistic viewpoint. You will also have the opportunity to interact with classmates and faculty from developing and developed economies. This plurality of viewpoints will help you evolve your global perspective.

Learn from global experts

You’ll benefit by learning directly from distinguished former ambassadors, policymakers, diplomats, and national security advisors. This programme is taught by the best-known thinkers and practitioners of international relations at the Jindal School of International Affairs (JSIA), and you will gain in-depth foreign policy insights into great power relations, geopolitics, geo-economics, multilateral diplomacy, negotiations and armed conflicts.

Earn your master’s degree without any background in international relations or social sciences

To apply to this programme, all you need is an undergraduate degree (in any field or specialisation) from a recognised university in India or abroad. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Tailor your degree to your career goals

This degree programme features an optional research track that makes it possible to tailor your learning journey to align with your unique career goals. There are over 15 electives you can choose from, including intelligence analysis, nuclear space, cyber security, climate change, migration, human security, and more.

Not ready to commit? These courses may provide you with a preview of the topics, materials and instructors in a related degree program which can help you decide if the topic or university is right for you.

Documents Required

  1. Academic History - Degree Certificate or Consolidated Transcript
  2. Valid ID Card -
  • Indian learners: Aadhar Card / Passport / PAN Card / Voter ID Card
  • International learners: Passport / Govt. Issued ID Card

Programme Schedule

The programme is offered in 2 cohorts: Spring (March) and Fall (September).


Important Dates

  • Class Start Date: 1st March 2024
  • Last date to enroll: 15th March '24

Want to learn more about the programme?


Contact Us

If you have any questions, please contact online@jgu.edu.in.

Hear from our learners

Celina Schmidtke

"The IRSS program is a distinctive program that brings together students and faculty from around the world. The interactive and asynchronous elements of the courses are perfectly coordinated and provide a unique learning experience that can be adapted to each individual's circumstances. I also appreciate the quick and helpful support from the teaching and tutoring staff."

— Celina Schmidtke

(Spring 2023)
Testimonial Yann

"Engaging in the M.A. in International Relations,Security, and Strategy program at O.P. Jindal Global University was an enlightening journey into the complexities of world affairs. The balanced curriculum, incorporating modern concepts such as the Indo-Pacific region, cyber and grey zone warfare, and the ongoing US-China rivalry, provided rich insights into contemporary global issues. Coming from a prominent Global South institution, the program offered a refreshing Indian viewpoint on diplomacy, multilateralism, and conflict resolution. What stood out was the high-caliber teaching staff, many of whom were experienced practitioners from the armed forces, international institutions, or intelligence services, lending real-world gravitas to our learning."

— Mr. Yann Rene Dominique De Villeneuve

(Fall 2021)
Testimonials - Sakshi

"The program's interdisciplinary approach allowed me to develop a holistic understanding of global affairs, security challenges, and strategic thinking. The faculty members are not only experts in their respective fields but also supportive mentors who encouraged critical thinking and intellectual growth. Along with this, the online platform provided the flexibility, allowing me to balance my studies with other commitments .This program has undoubtedly equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field of international relations and security."

— Ms. Sakshi Tendulkar

(Fall 2021)

About the Program

Admissions

Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in India or abroad. No work experience is required.

Academics

In this online degree, you’ll receive a comprehensive education in various aspects of foreign policy in different regions of the world.

Learn more about academics

Careers

M.A. IRSS graduates will be equipped to work in a wide range of fields upon graduation.

Learn more about careers

Student Experience

The launch of this unique online degree expands the opportunity to discover how the world works to students in India and around the world, without relocating.

Learn more about the student experience

About the University

OP Jindal Global University is the #1 private university in India (QS), awarded the title Institution of Eminence by the Government of India’s Education Ministry, and the only university in India that offers you a specialisation in the substantive domain of international affairs, security and strategy.

Learn more about the university

JGU courses

Find out more about courses offered by O.P. Jindal Global University on Coursera.

Find more JGU courses

Events

Sep14

Applications closed for Fall 23 cohort

Oct05

Applications open for Spring 24 cohort

Learn International Relations in a classroom of 25+ nationalities!

Learn International Relations in a classroom of 25+ nationalities!

Taught by some of the best-known thinkers and practitioners of international relations, this programme has been designed to help students and working professionals around the world, open the door to a career path in the ever-expanding streams of civil/ diplomatic services, conflict resolution, political journalism, international justice, international economic development, humanitarian relief, human rights advocacy, political and economic risk analysis, and more.

News

Frequently Asked Questions

Coursera does not grant credit, and does not represent that any institution other than the degree granting institution will recognize the credit or credential awarded by the institution; the decision to grant, accept, or transfer credit is subject to the sole and absolute discretion of an educational institution.

We encourage you to investigate whether this degree meets your academic and/or professional needs before applying.