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In this lecture, Dr Jim Johnson introduces one of MSc Strategic Studies courses, ‘Strategic Theory’.
This programme draws in the University of Aberdeen’s expertise in international security and the energy sector to deliver detailed understanding of global energy security, in the context of how different countries and regions operate today.
This course has January and September start dates. Apply Now.
The MSc Strategic Studies and Energy Security combines the study of national and internal security with courses in energy politics, energy economics and energy law to equip students with the practical skills needed to understand the character of international security as it relates to energy security.
The aim of this programme is to understand the costs and benefits of the strategies deployed, often of a military nature, to address energy security issues and to enhance our understanding of the difficulties encountered when attempting to assess the prospects for stability and security in key, pivotal 'energy-rich' and 'energy-poor' regions of the international system. In addition, you will study the enduring influence of certain core strategic issues, inherent in the management of power and coercion, on the international system regardless of levels of economic and social development.
The University of Aberdeen plays a central role in developing new technology across the energy sector while also works closely with industry, government and regulatory bodies in developing energy policy and frameworks. Our location at the heart of the Energy Capital of Europe means that our students benefit from direct industry involvement with our programmes.
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Self-funded international students enrolling on Postgraduate Taught (PGT) programmes for January 2025 will receive one of our Aberdeen Global Scholarships, ranging from £3,000 to £8,000, depending on your domicile country. Learn more about these Aberdeen Global Scholarships here.
From September 2025 all eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
You will enjoy a diverse and friendly style of teaching throughout our programme. These unique ways of learning will develop skills valued by employers, including independent learning and research, group work, presentation skills and project work.
Assessment: by written examination, essay work, class presentation, and project work as prescribed for each course, and by submission of a dissertation. The degree of MSc shall not be awarded to a candidate who fails to achieve a CGS mark of D3 or above in PI5901, irrespective of their performance in other courses.
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:1 standard from a recognised university or body in International Relations, Politics, History, Geography, Economics, Law and cognate disciplines such as Business Studies.
Applicants without this qualification may be admitted subject to having an alternative qualification, or an approved level of work experience appropriate to the field of study. Also taken into careful consideration is the trajectory of results, an applicant without an overall 2.1 but with 2.1 results in their final two years of study may be admitted.
Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
Eligible self-funded Postgraduate Taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore our Global Scholarships, including eligibility details, on our dedicated pages.
January 2025 September 2025The MSc in Strategic Studies programmes at the University of Aberdeen have produced graduates of high repute with excellent career prospects for over thirty years, with an international network of alumni who have gone on to become intelligence and political analysts, policy advisors, government and defence officials, researchers, and more.
Career prospects include public advocacy, research, advisory, and project management work for the energy sector, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and regional and global institutions such as the European Union or the United Nations. Graduates may also forge careers in the international media, the armed forces, international risk management, and international corporations.
A small and cohesive group of highly skilled academic staff with many years of graduate teaching experience, who are part of a network of high quality academics in strategic studies and international security.
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
We provide a wide range of related research centres including the Centre for Global Development; the Centre for Global Security and Governance; the Institute for Conflict, Transition, and Peace Research; and more.
The student-led Politics and International Relations Society is one of the largest societies on campus. It's a place for students to come together and explore their curiosities with like-minded people, whilst having lots of fun!
Find out moreWe have regular seminar series hosted by the department of Politics and International Relations along with guest speakers throughout the year.
Find out morePIR focuses on topics such as energy policy, environmental policy, health policy, and identity politics (gender and ethnicity), all of which span the traditional division between domestic/comparative and international politics.
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