伦敦国王学院

Overview

Our War Studies MA explores the phenomenon of war and conflict as a key aspect of the human experience, along with its causes, conduct and consequences. Central to the degree is the study of war from a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary perspective - which includes historical, political, sociological, philosophical, artistic, legal, ethical and military viewpoints. War is a deeply complex and contentious phenomenon, and its interdisciplinary study offers an unusually powerful opportunity to sharpen your critical analytical and reflective abilities and develop independent thinking. This prepares you for a wide range of careers and positions of responsibility in which such advanced intellectual skills are highly valued by employers.

Course detail

The MA in War Studies is the oldest degree programme in the Department of War Studies, stretching back some 60 years. A central objective of the MA from its beginnings has been to offer a thorough, state-of-the-art introduction to the major issues and debates concerning war and its impact on the world. The intractability of war suggests that no one disciplinary lens by itself may suffice to fully grasp the problem and identify solutions. By examining war and conflict in the round and looking at theories and practices, past, present and future, this multi-faceted and wide-ranging programme enables you to study alongside historians, social scientists, philosophers, jurists and artists, benefitting from their perspectives and those of the students around you. We will provide you with an intellectual ‘toolbox’ composed of skills and techniques drawn from a range of disciplines associated with the humanities and social sciences, giving you an overview of the fundamental elements of various disciplines that are relevant to the study of war. The challenge we pursue together lies in combining and, if possible, integrating them in order to achieve a sophisticated and rounded understanding of the subject area. The course will appeal if you are a student of politics, history or strategic studies or any other field which has kindled an interest in war, or if you are a professional in defence, diplomacy or foreign affairs who wants to reflect on the broader implications of your experiences. This MA is based in the Department of War Studies, one of the only academic departments in the world to focus solely on the complexities of conflict and security. War Studies is an multidisciplinary department and all War Studies students benefit from research-led teaching in such subjects as the history and evolution of war and grand strategy, arms control and non-proliferation, migration, strategic thought, cyber, conflict and the environment, the influence of science and technology on international security, along with regional specialisms covering Africa, Asia (East and South), Russia and elsewhere.

Teaching and assessment

The primary methods of assessment for this course are assessed essays, individual and group presentations, seminar participation, exercises, and/or exams. The dissertation module assessment will be based on a 100% dissertation assignment (up to 12,000 words).

Career prospects

War Studies Graduates go on to work for NGOs, the FCO, the MOD, the Home Office, NATO, the UN or pursue careers in journalism, finance, academia, the diplomatic services, the armed forces and more. Recent posts held by our alumni include Threat Analyst, Director of Political Violence Forecasting, Research Advisor at NATO Defence College, Foreign Policy Fellow.