War Studies Online

100% fully online postgraduate programmes in War Studies

We offer two fully online postgraduate programmes in War Studies: an MA in War, History and Diplomacy, and an MA in International Relations and War. These programmes enable students to earn an MA from our Department from anywhere in the world. We also offer on-campus teaching for one term.

Our online MAs have been running since 2005 and successfully combine the benefits of studying in a world-leading department with the flexibility of distance and part-time learning. Students benefit from teaching by key experts in war, security and international relations while retaining the flexibility of online education. The majority of our students are mid-career professionals, and fit their part-time studies around other work and life commitments. 

Key Benefits:

Fully online, available to study anytime, anywhere, with world-leading academics with many years’ experience delivering online education.
If their circumstances (residence, visa) allow, students can also join us for on-campus teaching for one term, although this is not required for the MA.
Unique opportunity to study at a global centre of excellence that enjoys close relationships with other academic institutions, think-tanks, non-governmental organisations and policy- making bodies around the world.
Taught by key authorities in the field, committed to sharing their research and knowledge whilst offering outstanding research-led teaching and training.
Academically rigorous course taught through tailor-made content, on which lecturers provide support and guidance.
Join a vibrant research community, an international student body drawn from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds, and a distinguished network of alumni.
Study and collaborate with other professionals working at the cutting-edge of policy and practice in defence, government, international organisations, business and law.
Maximum flexibility for you: access content and respond to discussion postings in your own time for each study unit.
As for many of our graduates, this MA enables you to prepare for a career in international, security or military affairs, or upskill yourself for promotion or career change.

For administrative queries please contact:

pgt-warstudies@kcl.ac.uk

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to complete the degree?

The minimum time to complete the MA programme is two years, and the maximum is six years. If you need to take a break from your studies at any time, you can interrupt your studies for a period of up to two years.

Are online courses the same quality as on-campus courses?

Our online programmes have exactly the same entry requirements and rigorous academic standards as any of our on-campus MA programmes, and are recognised as such. As an online student, you will receive the same high-quality teaching as our on-campus students, from our world-leading academics in War Studies.

Will my certificate specify that it is an online degree, and can I attend a graduation ceremony?

The mode of delivery is not added to your degree certificate. You will receive the same certificate as a student who studied full-time on-campus. And just like any on-campus student, you will be invited to a graduation ceremony in London so you can celebrate your achievement. It is a real highlight for us to be able to celebrate with our students in person.

How will I be supported in my studies?

You will receive administrative, academic and pastoral support from our dedicated professional services team and academic staff. As a King’s student, you will also have access to all of our College-wide specialist support, including library services, careers services, study skills and training, and more on student services online. In each module of study, there are plenty of opportunities for engagement with module tutors and fellow students and you will receive personalised feedback on coursework. When you select a topic for your dissertation, you will be assigned to an academic supervisor to advise on the research and writing process.

Do I need any specific skills, tools or equipment?

War Studies Online programmes are delivered using the King’s E-learning and Teaching Service (KEATS), which is a dedicated virtual learning environment, giving you access to a variety of multi-media learning tools and resources. We provide training on using KEATS in our Welcome and Induction module when you enter the programme. You will need a broadband internet connection of 4Mbps minimum, a computer able to operate Windows 7 or Mac OS 10.10 or later, a browser such as Safari, Chrome or Firefox (Explorer is not recommended), headphones and a microphone. You will be given access to Office365 with an email account and OneDrive when you enrol on the programme.

Will I have a King’s College London email and student ID?

You will be given a King’s email account and you can request a King’s College London ID card when you enrol. Should you wish to visit us on campus or use the physical library, you are welcome to do so.

How much time should I expect to spend studying online?

The amount of time will vary for each student but you should expect to spend around five hours per week online engaging with course materials and participating in online discussions and around 15 hours a week in self-led study.

How will I be assessed?

Modules are usually assessed by written assignments and student participation in seminar discussions and there are no exams. The dissertation assessment is based on a 100% dissertation assignment (up to 12,000 words).

How is the course structured?

Our MA programmes require to you complete 180 credits. This is made up of two required modules of 15 credits each, six optional modules of 15 credits each and a 12,000-word dissertation of 60 credits