Pursuing a degree in International Relations (IR) in Europe is an excellent strategic move for any aspiring diplomat or policy analyst. Compared to institutions in the US, European universities offer world-class academic standards and global networking opportunities, often with significantly lower tuition fees or even tuition-free models for international students.
However, selecting the right institution is vital, as facilities, faculty expertise, and program focus vary significantly between schools. To help you identify the best international relations programs in Europe, we have curated the latest insights from global authorities, including QS TopUniversities and Times Higher Education:
1. Best international relations schools in Europe – TopUniversities Rankings 2021
- , France
- , UK
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- , UK
- , UK
- , Germany
- , UK
- , Netherlands
- , Austria
- , Netherlands
Read the full QS Rankings by Subject on the TopUniversities webpage.
2. Best international relations schools in Europe – Times Higher Education Rankings 2022
- University of Oxford, UK
- The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), UK
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- University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
- , Switzerland
- , UK
- , Netherlands
- , Germany
- PSL Research University, France
View the complete World University Rankings by Subject on the Times Higher Education website.
In addition to the highly-ranked institutions above, here are several other prestigious European schools specializing in international relations that come highly recommended:
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- , Estonia
- , Italy
- , Austria
- , Poland
If you prefer the flexibility of distance learning, explore our top picks for online degree programs at and .
Student reviews of the best international relations schools in Europe
Still undecided about your future university? Peer reviews provide invaluable transparency into the student experience. Below, we share testimonials from alumni who have graduated from some of Europe's top-rated International Relations departments:
Free University of Berlin
“FU Berlin is a well-functioning university where the professors are very well prepared and always looking to find a new and more interesting way of teaching. It is full of libraries and green spots to study and meet new people. The lectures help you to build more consciousness in discussing important topics with both the professor and other students.”
SOAS University of London
“I really enjoyed studying with people from all over the world coming from different educational backgrounds. The course is challenging but interesting, and the atmosphere at the uni is very relaxed and open-minded.”
Leiden University
“I was always very interested in other cultures, in global affairs, in intercultural contact and in learning from each other. As an international college, Leiden University gave me the opportunity to academically learn about politics, sustainability and other subjects that provide challenges today as well as socially learn from the diversity of cultures and identities that meet at this college.”
University of Manchester
“My experience at UoM has been simply amazing. Coming from a humble background in the suburbs of Florence, Italy, Manchester has been a great place where to start my climb up the ladder. It is a city which is fast developing, and you can witness and feel it everywhere you go.
The University staff is always there to make your experience worthy of the tuition fees you pay and will always be ready to listen to your concerns and suggestions on the programme you study. The resources you have access to are overwhelming at times, and you will be literally spoilt for choice on how to invest your free time and energy.
Always bear in mind that you are studying at a world-leading academic centre, with all the benefits such a label carries with it. You will often come across world-renowned scholars, policy-makers both from Westminster and other European countries, and representatives from the private sector.”