The MSc Theory and History of International Relations is a specialist, multidisciplinary degree taught by the Department of International History and the Department of International Relations – both have a global reputation for their high quality research and dynamic contributions to the development of their respective disciplines.
This unique joint degree programme has been designed for students who want to understand and appreciate both the theoretical and the empirical approach to the study of international relations. The curriculum offers students the opportunity to take courses tailored to their specific interests, in terms of method, time-frame and geographical scope. The choices available are wide and deep since this is a joint degree with the International Relations Department and the International History Department (where it's based).
The curriculum combines an exceptional level of analytical training in theory, balanced with the discipline of historical based case-studies and advanced research. You'll be taught by leading experts in both disciplines. You can choose one broad course from each department. For your third option you can chose one of many highly specialised courses offered by either department. You'll then complete your degree by doing a history dissertation, which will give you the chance to conduct your own empirical research on a detailed historical case study.
This well-balanced and bespoke programme, allows you to develop your intellectual understanding and ability to analyse a wide range of international relations’ history, organisations, trends and challenges including world wars, East-West conflict, North-South relations, European integration, globalisation, diplomacy and peace-building.
A hugely flexible joint degree, it can be tailored to provide you with a more advanced understanding of international relations and theory, or it offers an exceptional foundation if you're making the transition from related disciplines such as political science, modern languages, economics, sociology, law or journalism. You'll have the opportunity to study alongside students drawn from a wide range of disciplines. In addition, you'll benefit from being in the wider LSE learning environment with its many guest lecturers and speakers including policymakers, world-leaders and practitioners, all tackling today’s complex and rapidly changing world of international relations.
This popular, long-established and well-respected programme will better equip you to progress towards your chosen career including within the field of analysis, consultancy, research, policy making, global and local governance, crisis intervention, peace-building, risk assessment, journalism, intelligence gathering and academia.
Watch the Virtual Graduate Open talk given by Master's Admissions Advisor Dr Paul Stock in November 2025.
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Theory and History of International Relations
Discover more about our students and department below and read more student stories in our department's website .
History is a wide ranging and challenging subject to study. It seeks to understand the past and to make sense of the present, adding an important dimension to the understanding of many aspects of human society. The department is world renowned in its field, offering a unique perspective on the history of relations between states, peoples and cultures. We pride ourselves on giving students the benefit of ground-breaking research throughout our teaching programmes.
Our degrees will give you a broad international perspective on the past. We give attention both to domestic and international issues and many of the courses we offer deal with major events in the history of international relations.
Since the behaviour of countries in the international arena cannot be understood without a knowledge of their distinct social, political, economic and cultural characteristics, we provide courses covering major aspects of the history of ideas and mentalities.
LSE was founded in 1895 originally as an institute of higher education for graduate students. The department reflects this tradition and takes its responsibility for undergraduate teaching and supervision very seriously. We admit nearly as many undergraduate students as master's students. We have one of the most cosmopolitan undergraduate communities in London and one of the most vibrant and dynamic.
Upper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent in any discipline.
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The English language requirement for this programme is Higher . Read more about our English language requirements .
Competition for places at LSE is strong. So, even if you meet the minimum entry requirements, this doesn't guarantee you an offer of a place.
However, please don’t feel deterred from applying – we want to hear from all suitably qualified students. Think carefully about how you can put together the strongest possible application to help you stand out.