QS Rank:

40

Kings College London

London
,United Kingdom

Program Rank

13

Program Name
MA in War Studies

Deadline
August 25th, 2026
Overview
Master of Arts in War Studies at King's College London is a highly esteemed program that provides students with in-depth knowledge and analytical skills in the realms of War and Conflict Studies. As one of the top-ranked universities globally, King's College London has established itself as a premier institution for research and education, particularly in social sciences and public policy. The MA in War Studies attracts a diverse international student body, making it an enriching educational experience that incorporates various perspectives on conflict and warfare. This program not only delves into historical analyses but also evaluates contemporary issues related to security, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, preparing graduates for impactful careers in multiple sectors.
The curriculum of the MA in War Studies is meticulously designed to offer a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications. Students will engage with core modules that cover topics such as strategic studies, international relations, and military history. Additionally, students can select from a range of elective courses that allow them to tailor their education to their interests, whether it be humanitarian interventions, the ethics of war, or the impact of technology on modern warfare. This flexibility ensures that every student can pursue their passion while gaining essential skills relevant to the field.
A hallmark of the MA in War Studies program is the exceptional faculty, who are not only leading academics but also experienced practitioners with vast expertise in their respective fields. The faculty utilize an interactive teaching methodology that combines lectures, seminars, and group projects, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Students benefit from the wealth of knowledge and insights shared by faculty members, many of whom have extensive backgrounds in government, think tanks, or international organizations. This connection to real-world experiences enhances the academic curriculum and prepares students for the complexities of global conflicts.
Research is a fundamental component of the MA in War Studies, and King's College London offers a plethora of opportunities for students to engage in significant projects. The university is home to several renowned research centers that focus on peace and conflict studies, security, and international relations. Students are encouraged to pursue their own research interests, supported by faculty mentorship and access to extensive library resources and databases. Additionally, the program often hosts guest speakers from various sectors, providing students with insights into current trends and issues in war studies.
Moreover, the MA in War Studies program at King's College London is well-connected to various industries, presenting students with numerous internship and networking opportunities. The university has established relationships with governmental bodies, NGOs, and international organizations, facilitating pathways for students to gain hands-on experience through placements. These opportunities not only enhance learning but also increase employability upon graduation, as students build essential professional networks and apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Career pathways for graduates of the MA in War Studies are diverse and promising. Alumni have gone on to occupy influential positions in government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and non-profit organizations. Many have found roles as policy advisors, conflict analysts, and researchers, utilizing their skills to influence public policy and contribute to peace-building efforts. The program's rigorous academic training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle pressing global issues related to war and conflict.
Notably, the success stories of alumni from the MA in War Studies program reflect the program’s effectiveness in shaping career trajectories. Graduates have praised the program for its comprehensive curriculum and the invaluable connections they made during their studies. Testimonials highlight how the blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience facilitated their entry into competitive job markets. The university's strong reputation further enhances the employability of its graduates, making the MA in War Studies a wise investment for aspiring professionals.
Why Study War Studies at King's College London
- A globally recognized program with a focus on contemporary issues and historical context in war studies.
- Access to distinguished faculty who are leaders in the field of War and Conflict Studies, offering mentorship and research collaboration.
- Extensive research opportunities through dedicated centers and access to comprehensive library resources.
- Strong industry connections leading to internship opportunities that provide practical experience in governmental and non-governmental sectors.
- A strong alumni network that enhances career prospects through connections and mentorship.
Admission to the MA in War Studies program at King's College London requires a strong academic background, typically a relevant undergraduate degree. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. Prospective students should have a minimum IELTS score of 7.0, PTE score of 69, or a TOEFL score of 100 to ensure they can effectively engage with the curriculum.
In conclusion, the MA in War Studies at King's College London is an exemplary program for those looking to make meaningful contributions in the fields of conflict resolution, security studies, and policy analysis. Its rigorous curriculum, expert faculty, and ample research and internship opportunities make it a top choice for students from around the globe. By choosing this program, students not only receive a world-class education but also position themselves for successful careers in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Duration
12 Months
Ranking
#35
The World University Rankings
#40
QS World University Rankings

Intake
Fall ( Sept - Nov )
Class Profile
Career Outcomes
Prospective Job Roles
Journalism
Academia
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Politics
International organizations
Risk analysis
National civil and military public service
Public advocacy
Defence, diplomacy, and foreign affairs
Eligibility Criteria

Accepted fields include International Relations, War Studies, History, Political Science, Strategic Studies, Criminology, Economics, Geography, Law, Philosophy, Psychiatry, Psychology, Religious Studies, Social Anthropology, Sociology, Theology.

At least 65 / 100 undergraduate GPA is expected.
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
7

PTE
69

TOEFL
100

Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 85

Transcript

English Proficiency Test

Lor Document

Master SOP
Application Deadlines
| Round 1 | Final Deadline | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar 9, 2026 | N/A | N/A |
| Summer | N/A | Aug 25, 2026 | N/A |
| Fall | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$38,300 / year

Overall Cost
$54,300 / year
FAQs
Admission to the MA in War Studies program at King's College London requires:
- A strong academic background, typically a relevant undergraduate degree.
- Demonstrated proficiency in English through standardized tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
Specifically, prospective students should have:
- A minimum IELTS score of 7.0,
- A minimum PTE score of 69, or
- A minimum TOEFL score of 100.
This proficiency ensures that students can effectively engage with the curriculum.
The curriculum of the MA in War Studies is meticulously designed to offer a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications. Students will engage with core modules that cover:
- Strategic studies
- International relations
- Military history
Additionally, students can select from a range of elective courses, allowing them to tailor their education to their interests. Possible topics include:
- Humanitarian interventions
- The ethics of war
- The impact of technology on modern warfare
This flexibility ensures that every student can pursue their passion while gaining essential skills relevant to the field.
The MA in War Studies program employs an interactive teaching methodology that combines:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Group projects
This approach fosters a collaborative learning environment, allowing students to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and insights shared by the faculty. The faculty consists of leading academics and experienced practitioners who have extensive backgrounds in government, think tanks, or international organizations. This connection to real-world experiences enhances the academic curriculum and prepares students for the complexities of global conflicts.
Graduates of the MA in War Studies have diverse and promising career pathways. Alumni have successfully occupied influential positions in:
- Government agencies
- International organizations
- Think tanks
- Non-profit organizations
Many graduates have found roles as policy advisors, conflict analysts, and researchers, utilizing their skills to influence public policy and contribute to peace-building efforts. The program's rigorous academic training equips graduates to tackle pressing global issues related to war and conflict, enhancing their employability upon graduation.
Research is a fundamental component of the MA in War Studies. King’s College London provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in significant projects. The university is home to several renowned research centers focused on:
- Peace and conflict studies
- Security
- International relations
Students are encouraged to pursue their own research interests, supported by faculty mentorship and access to extensive library resources and databases. The program also hosts guest speakers from various sectors, providing insights into current trends and issues in war studies.
The MA in War Studies program at King’s College London is well-connected to various industries, presenting students with numerous internship and networking opportunities. The university has established relationships with:
- Governmental bodies
- NGOs
- International organizations
These connections facilitate pathways for students to gain hands-on experience through placements, which not only enhance learning but also increase employability upon graduation. Students build essential professional networks during their studies, which can be pivotal for their future careers.
Studying War Studies at King’s College London offers several distinctive highlights:
- A globally recognized program that focuses on contemporary issues and historical context in war studies.
- Access to distinguished faculty who are leaders in the field, offering mentorship and research collaboration.
- Extensive research opportunities through dedicated centers and comprehensive library resources.
- Strong industry connections leading to internship opportunities that provide practical experience in both governmental and non-governmental sectors.
- A robust alumni network that enhances career prospects through connections and mentorship.
The MA in War Studies at King’s College London is considered a wise investment for several reasons:
- The program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
- Students benefit from exceptional faculty who are both leading academics and experienced practitioners.
- The strong reputation of King’s College London enhances the employability of its graduates.
- Internship and networking opportunities provide students with the chance to gain hands-on experience and build professional relationships.
These factors contribute to the program’s effectiveness in shaping career trajectories and preparing students for successful careers in an increasingly complex global landscape.
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