International relations examines how countries, international organizations, and other actors interact across borders. It also considers how political, economic, legal, and social systems influence international and domestic affairs. By studying international relations, students can develop a stronger understanding of global institutions, conflicts, cooperation, and contemporary international issues. This article highlights top European institutions offering notable international relations programs.
Top International Relations Schools in Europe
1. University College London
University College London, or UCL, is a multidisciplinary university in London with an international community and numerous global partnerships. Its Department of Political Science offers a Bachelor of Science in Politics and International Relations.
The Politics and International Relations BSc is a three-year, full-time program designed for students who want to understand the political forces shaping contemporary society. Students examine international relations, comparative politics, political theory, and research methods while developing skills in data analysis, research, writing, and communication. In the third year, students can select modules based on the subfields, issues, and methods that interest them most. A limited number of study-abroad placements are available. Successful applicants transfer to the four-year version of the program and spend their third year abroad before returning to UCL for their final year.
2. King’s College London
King’s College London is an international university with teaching and research across the social sciences and public policy. Its Department of War Studies, within the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in international relations.
The International Relations BA is a three-year, full-time, single-honors program delivered in person. First-year required modules currently include International Relations Theory, History of the International System, Introduction to International Economics, Conflict and Diplomacy, and Contemporary Security Issues. Students encounter a wider choice of modules as they progress. Assessment varies by module and may include research essays, policy briefs, examinations, presentations, and a written dissertation.
The International Relations MA can be completed in one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study. Students complete 180 credits, including Theories, Concepts & Methods in International Relations and a 60-credit dissertation. The program examines topics such as globalization, ethics, human rights, international political economy, war, environmental crises, and security through the perspectives of politics, international relations, philosophy, and social theory.
3. London School of Economics and Political Science
The Department of International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers undergraduate, taught graduate, and research degrees in international relations. LSE’s politics and international relations subject area was ranked fifth worldwide in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
The BSc International Relations is a three-year, full-time program consisting of 12 units plus LSE100. In the first year, students take compulsory courses in international relations theories, concepts, debates, and contemporary issues. They also select a history course or an approved option from another department. In the third year, students can choose specialized subjects. Assessment methods vary and may include coursework, end-of-year assessments, or a combination of the two.
LSE also offers a separate MSc International Relations and an MPhil/PhD International Relations. The MSc normally takes 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time and includes optional courses and a 10,000-word dissertation. The MPhil/PhD is a research degree that normally takes three to four years of full-time study, with a minimum registration period of two years. Research areas include international relations theory, foreign policy, international political economy, international institutions, security, nationalism, environmental politics, and war studies.
4. Sciences Po
Sciences Po is an international research university specializing in the social sciences. Its Paris School of International Affairs, or PSIA, offers graduate programs combining academic study with professional and practical training. Sciences Po was ranked third worldwide for politics in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
PSIA offers the Master in International Governance and Diplomacy, which was previously known as the Master in International Public Management. It is a two-year, English-taught program requiring at least 120 ECTS credits. The curriculum combines political science, international law, economics, management, policy analysis, and diplomacy. Diplomacy is integrated as a mandatory concentration, and students also choose a thematic or regional concentration.
The third semester is dedicated to professional development. Subject to the applicable approval requirements, students can complete an internship, study abroad, or write a master’s thesis. The program uses case studies, simulations, and practitioner-led teaching to connect theoretical study with international negotiations, policymaking, and diplomatic practice.
5. Leiden University
Leiden University has academic locations in Leiden and The Hague and serves an international community of students and researchers. Its international relations offerings include the Bachelor of Science in International Relations and Organisations and the Master of Arts in International Relations.
The International Relations and Organisations BSc is a three-year, English-taught program within Leiden University’s political science curriculum. It is based in The Hague and examines diplomacy, international cooperation and conflict, current global issues, major powers, and organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.
The International Relations MA is a one-year, full-time, English-taught program based in Leiden. It uses a humanities-based approach and currently offers five specializations: Culture and Politics, European Union Studies, Global Conflict in the Modern Era, Global Order in Historical Perspective, and Global Political Economy. Students develop critical research and analytical skills while tailoring the program to their academic and professional interests.
We hope that this article on the Best International Relations Schools in Europe was helpful. Make sure to also check out the available programs in Europe!
