The MA in International Relations, Security, and Strategy program offers a comprehensive education in global affairs, combining theoretical foundations with practical insights. Students learn from distinguished diplomats and experts while developing critical analysis skills in international politics, security studies, and strategic thinking.
Instructors:
English

Course Start Date:
Applications are now open!
Applications Deadline:
30th August 2025
Duration:
12-24 Months
₹ 3,00,000
Overview
The MA in International Relations, Security, and Strategy is a pioneering online program offered by O.P. Jindal Global University, India's #1 ranked private university. This innovative program integrates international relations, security studies, and strategic analysis into a comprehensive curriculum delivered by distinguished faculty including former ambassadors and policy experts.
Why MA (Master of Arts)?
The program stands out for its unique integration of international relations, security, and strategy, flexible online format, and distinguished faculty of global experts. Students benefit from a dissertation opportunity, cross-elective options in Public Policy, and practical insights from diplomats and security advisors.
What does this course have to offer?
Key Highlights
Global classroom environment
Dissertation opportunity
Flexible completion timeline
No prior IR background required
Cross-elective options
Learning from distinguished experts
QS World ranked institution
Who is this programme for?
Aspiring diplomats and foreign service professionals
Policy analysts and researchers
Journalists covering international affairs
NGO and international organization professionals
Public sector and government employees
Minimum Eligibility
Bachelor's degree in any field from recognized university
Valid ID proof (Aadhar/Passport/PAN/Voter ID for Indian students)
Passport/Government ID for international students
Who is the programme for?
The program follows a comprehensive admission process evaluating academic background and career goals. Students complete 16 courses over 24-36 months through a combination of core modules and electives. The curriculum is delivered through synchronous and asynchronous online learning with approximately 10 hours of weekly effort.
Important Dates
Selection process
How to apply?
Curriculum
The curriculum integrates core principles of international relations with contemporary security and strategic studies. Students explore topics ranging from geopolitics and diplomacy to strategic analysis and global security challenges. The program includes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through case studies and research projects.
There are 10 semesters in this course
The MA program consists of 16 comprehensive courses covering international relations theory, security studies, and strategic analysis. The curriculum blends foundational concepts with specialized topics in diplomacy, geopolitics, and international security. Students complete core modules in the first year followed by specialized electives and a dissertation track in the final semester.
Flexible elective options (for cross electives in Public Policy)
This collection of courses covers a broad spectrum of topics related to development, governance, and policy-making, offering students an in-depth understanding of the social, economic, and political dimensions of global challenges. Democratic Governance explores the principles and practices of democratic systems, focusing on how political institutions, processes, and actors interact to shape governance outcomes, while Gender and Development examines the relationship between gender dynamics and development processes, emphasizing the importance of gender equality in sustainable development. The course on International Organisations and Policy Regimes delves into the role of global institutions in shaping international policies, regulations, and norms that govern cross-border issues such as trade, security, and human rights. Development Economics provides a foundation in the economic theories and policies that underpin development practices, helping students understand how economies grow and develop in the context of poverty, inequality, and resource distribution. Urbanization and Development tackles the challenges and opportunities posed by rapid urban growth, examining the impact of urbanization on social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Qualitative Analysis and Survey Design equips students with the skills to conduct research through qualitative methods and survey techniques, ensuring they can collect and analyze data effectively to inform policy decisions. Environmental Issues, Policies and Practice highlights key environmental challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, and examines the policies and practices designed to address these pressing issues. Law, Governance and Public Policy explores the intersection of legal frameworks, governance structures, and public policy-making, focusing on how laws are enacted, interpreted, and enforced to promote social justice and development. Finally, Statistical Methods and Data Analysis provides students with the quantitative skills necessary for analyzing data, helping them draw meaningful conclusions from empirical research and informing evidence-based decision-making in development and governance contexts. Together, these courses form a well-rounded curriculum that equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical tools needed to tackle complex issues in global development, governance, and policy-making.
Democratic Governance
Gender and Development
International Organisations and Policy Regimes
Development Economics
Urbanization and Development
Qualitative Analysis and Survey Design
Environmental Issues
Policies and Practice
Law
Governance and Public Policy
Statistical Methods and Data Analysis
List of Potential Elective Courses (for relevant electives in International Relations, Security & Strategy)
This set of courses offers a comprehensive exploration of contemporary international relations, security studies, and global governance, with a focus on the evolving dynamics of power, conflict, and cooperation in the 21st century. "Multilateral Institutions and Global Security" investigates the role of international organizations, such as the United Nations and NATO, in addressing global security challenges, emphasizing collective security mechanisms, peacekeeping, and diplomatic efforts. "Military Conflict and Deterrence in the 21st Century" delves into the theory and practice of military deterrence in modern warfare, examining the changing nature of conflict, technological advancements, and strategies for maintaining peace and stability. "The China-US New Cold War and the Indo-Pacific" addresses the geopolitical rivalry between China and the United States, analyzing its implications for regional security, economic competition, and the strategic interests of Indo-Pacific nations. "Climate Change, Migration and Human Security" focuses on the intersection of environmental change, human mobility, and security, exploring how climate-induced migration affects global stability and the challenges of adapting to new environmental realities. "India's Rise in World Affairs" examines India's growing influence in global politics, economics, and security, considering its regional role, strategic partnerships, and aspirations for global leadership. "Nuclear, Space and Cyber Security" explores the security implications of nuclear proliferation, the militarization of space, and the increasing importance of cybersecurity in modern geopolitics, highlighting new threats and challenges in these domains. "Intelligence Analysis and Risk Assessment" provides students with the tools and methodologies used in intelligence gathering, analysis, and risk assessment, teaching how to evaluate threats and opportunities in complex, dynamic international environments. Finally, "Domestic Politics and their Impact on Foreign Policy" investigates how internal political dynamics, ideologies, and public opinion influence the foreign policies of states, considering the intersection of domestic governance and international relations. Collectively, these courses offer a rich and diverse curriculum, preparing students to understand and navigate the complex security and diplomatic challenges facing the world today.
Multilateral Institutions and Global Security
Military Conflict and Deterrence in the 21st Century
The China-US New Cold War and the Indo-Pacific
Climate Change
Migration and Human Security
India's Rise in World Affairs
Nuclear
Space and Cyber Security
Intelligence Analysis and Risk Assessment
Domestic Politics and their Impact on Foreign Policy
International Relations Theory and Praxis
Investigates existing practices of international politics and relations during and after the Cold War, examining whether problems of individual and collective choices can be subjected to theoretical treatment.
Diplomatic Practice
Introduces the ecosystem of diplomatic practice, covering international relations, foreign policy, global architecture, and various diplomatic institutions and types of diplomacy including economic, cultural, diaspora, consular services, and military intervention.
Maritime Security and Naval Strategy
Covers maritime threats and challenges of the 21st century focusing on Indo-Pacific region, international maritime law, UN Convention on Law of the Sea, IMO conventions, and contemporary role of world navies.
Intelligence, War and Weapons
Explores fundamentals of intelligence gathering, warfare conduct, weapons importance, and war strategies through examination of both ancient and contemporary wars.
Terrorism, Counter-terrorism and Unconventional Threats
Explores terrorism debates, its distinction from political violence, reasons for its rise, challenges in coordinated action, and analysis of terrorist organizations across regions.
Foreign Policies of Great, Middle and Small Powers
Analysis of foreign policies based on country size and power, comparing strategies of superpowers versus weaker countries, with focus on policy making processes.
Law and Ethics in International Relations
Examines theoretical and applied dimensions of normative theories and international ethics through contemporary moral questions including drone warfare, terrorism, humanitarian interventions, and climate change.
Negotiating and Resolving International Conflicts
Provides overview of negotiation theories, peacebuilding, and conflict-transformation through case studies and practical peace design exercises.
Programme Length
The program offers flexible completion options ranging from 24 to 36 months, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. The curriculum is delivered through scheduled online sessions with approximately 10 hours of weekly engagement.
Tuition Fee
The total program fee is INR 3,00,000, payable in four equal installments at the beginning of each semester. Students must make an initial registration payment of INR 50,000, which is adjusted against the first semester fee.
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financing options
Financial Aid
Learning Experience
Students engage through an advanced online learning platform featuring live lectures, interactive sessions, and collaborative projects. The program combines synchronous and asynchronous learning methods with regular faculty interactions and peer discussions.
University Experience
Students experience a vibrant online learning environment with access to distinguished faculty, global experts, and peers from diverse backgrounds. The program provides opportunities for virtual networking, research collaboration, and engagement with industry professionals.

About the University
O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), established in 2009, is a private deemed-to-be university located in Sonipat, Haryana, India. Founded as a philanthropic initiative by Naveen Jindal in memory of his father, O.P. Jindal, the university emphasizes a multi-disciplinary and research-oriented approach to education. JGU offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including law, business, liberal arts, international affairs, and life sciences, with over 45 academic programs available.The university is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and has been ranked as the No. 1 private university in India by multiple sources. It aims to foster a vibrant learning environment that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and global engagement among its students. With a focus on research and interdisciplinary studies, JGU seeks to address contemporary global challenges through education and scholarship.JGU's campus is designed to support an engaging student experience, featuring modern facilities and resources that enhance both academic and extracurricular activities. The university promotes a culture of inclusivity and diversity, welcoming students from various backgrounds and regions.
#601-650
QS World University Ranking
9,000
Total Enrollment
Career services
O.P. Jindal Global University offers robust career services aimed at preparing students for successful careers after graduation. The Career Development Office provides comprehensive support through personalized counseling sessions, workshops on resume writing and interview preparation, and access to job fairs featuring top employers from diverse industries.The university emphasizes experiential learning by facilitating internships that allow students to gain practical experience while studying. These opportunities not only enhance students' resumes but also help them build valuable professional networks that can aid in job placements.JGU maintains partnerships with numerous organizations to provide students with internship opportunities aligned with their career goals. The Career Development Office also organizes networking events where students can connect with alumni and industry professionals for mentorship and guidance.Additionally, the university offers online resources that include job listings, career advice articles, and tools for professional development. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate the job market successfully upon graduation.
Top Recruiters

Course Start Date:
Applications are now open!
Applications Deadline:
30th August 2025
Duration:
12-24 Months
₹ 3,00,000
Whom you will learn from?
Learn from top industry experts who bring real-world experience and deep knowledge to every lesson. The instructors are dedicated to help you achieve your goals with practical insights and hands-on guidance.
Instructors
Veteran Diplomat and Expert in International Trade and Relations.
Ambassador Prof. (Dr.) Mohan Kumar has had an illustrious 36-year career in the Indian Foreign Service, culminating in his role as India’s Ambassador to France, where he significantly strengthened the Indo-French strategic partnership across various sectors, including defense, space, and energy. Prior to this, he served as Ambassador to Bahrain during the complex geopolitical landscape of the Arab Spring. Dr. Kumar is highly regarded for his expertise in international trade, having been India's lead negotiator at both the GATT and WTO, focusing on critical areas such as Intellectual Property Rights and Dispute Settlement. He has represented India at several WTO Ministerial Conferences and played a pivotal role in shaping India's relations with neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs. He holds an MBA from the University of Delhi and a Ph.D. from Sciences Po in Paris. Since June 2018, he has chaired the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and authored the book Negotiation Dynamics of the WTO: An Insider’s Account.
Leading Scholar in International Affairs at Jindal Global University
Dr. Sreeram Chaulia is a Professor and Dean at the Jindal School of International Affairs, O.P. Jindal Global University, in Sonipat, India. He is a prominent opinion columnist for Indian newspapers in both Hindi and English, providing insights on world affairs, and he hosts the "Indian Diplomacy" TV show on Doordarshan, India's national broadcaster. Chaulia has authored several influential books, including International Organizations and Civilian Protection: Power, Ideas and Humanitarian Aid in Conflict Zones (2011), Politics of the Global Economic Crisis: Regulation, Responsibility and Radicalism (2013), Modi Doctrine: The Foreign Policy of India’s Prime Minister (2016), and Trumped: Emerging Powers in a Post-American World (2019). His latest work is Crunch Time: Narendra Modi’s National Security Crises. With a strong academic background, he holds a Ph.D. in Political Science and International Relations from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University and has published extensively on topics related to diplomacy, foreign policy, and international political economy.
Testimonials
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Faculties
These are the expert instructors who will be teaching you throughout the course. With a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, they’re here to guide, inspire, and support you every step of the way. Get to know the people who will help you reach your learning goals and make the most of your journey.
Instructors
Emerging Scholar in Social Media Analytics and IT at IIM Lucknow.
Prof. Ambica Ghai is currently pursuing her PhD in Management with a specialization in IT and Systems at IIM Lucknow. Her research focuses on social media listening and monitoring, particularly examining the interplay between textual data and image analytics. This involves analyzing how images and text together can provide insights into consumer behavior and preferences.
Scholar in Organizational Behavior and HRM at Jindal Global Business School.
Anshu Sharma is an Associate Professor in the Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management (OB-HRM) area at Jindal Global Business School. She also serves as the Assistant Dean for the MBA-DFB Program and is the Executive Director for the Centre of Responsible Management. A Fellow of MDI, Gurgaon, her doctoral research, titled "Determinants of Organizational Learning Capability in the Digital Age: Role of Enterprise Social Media, Social Capital, and Informal Learning," received the Highly Commended Award at the Emerald Outstanding Doctoral Research Awards in 2017.
Instructors
Veteran Diplomat and Expert in International Trade and Relations.
Ambassador Prof. (Dr.) Mohan Kumar has had an illustrious 36-year career in the Indian Foreign Service, culminating in his role as India’s Ambassador to France, where he significantly strengthened the Indo-French strategic partnership across various sectors, including defense, space, and energy. Prior to this, he served as Ambassador to Bahrain during the complex geopolitical landscape of the Arab Spring. Dr. Kumar is highly regarded for his expertise in international trade, having been India's lead negotiator at both the GATT and WTO, focusing on critical areas such as Intellectual Property Rights and Dispute Settlement. He has represented India at several WTO Ministerial Conferences and played a pivotal role in shaping India's relations with neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs. He holds an MBA from the University of Delhi and a Ph.D. from Sciences Po in Paris. Since June 2018, he has chaired the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and authored the book Negotiation Dynamics of the WTO: An Insider’s Account.
Leading Scholar in International Affairs at Jindal Global University
Dr. Sreeram Chaulia is a Professor and Dean at the Jindal School of International Affairs, O.P. Jindal Global University, in Sonipat, India. He is a prominent opinion columnist for Indian newspapers in both Hindi and English, providing insights on world affairs, and he hosts the "Indian Diplomacy" TV show on Doordarshan, India's national broadcaster. Chaulia has authored several influential books, including International Organizations and Civilian Protection: Power, Ideas and Humanitarian Aid in Conflict Zones (2011), Politics of the Global Economic Crisis: Regulation, Responsibility and Radicalism (2013), Modi Doctrine: The Foreign Policy of India’s Prime Minister (2016), and Trumped: Emerging Powers in a Post-American World (2019). His latest work is Crunch Time: Narendra Modi’s National Security Crises. With a strong academic background, he holds a Ph.D. in Political Science and International Relations from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University and has published extensively on topics related to diplomacy, foreign policy, and international political economy.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this course. We aim to provide clear and concise answers to help you better understand the course content, structure, and any other relevant information. If you have any additional questions or if your question is not listed here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance.
The degree is equivalent to the on-campus program with no mention of online mode on the front
Graduates work in diplomatic services, journalism, NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations
No, candidates from any background can apply without prior work experience