Program Structure

THESIS track (Plan A)
The thesis track requires two years of study. The first year is dedicated to coursework, while the second year focuses on the completion of a 12-credit thesis. At the end of the first year, during the semester break in June–July, students concentrate on developing their thesis proposal. In the third semester, students may continue with electives while advancing their research and must defend their thesis proposal at the end of the semester. Students must completing and defending the thesis at the end of fourth semester. 

To graduate, students must earn a total of 36 credits with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Twelve credits come from required courses, 12 from electives, and 12 from thesis. In addition, thesis-track students are required to present their research at an academic conference or publish in a peer-reviewed journal as part of the graduation requirements.
2-year program
  • Coursework: 8 courses for 24 credits (12 required + 12 elective)
  • Thesis: 12 credits
  • Total: 36 credits
NON-THESIS track (Plan B)
The non-thesis track also requires two years of study. Students complete the bulk of their coursework during the first year and then prepare for their Independent Study (IS) proposal and the comprehensive exam during the summer semester break (June–July). The IS is worth 6 credits: the first 3 credits in the third semester are dedicated to developing and defending the IS proposal, and the final 3 credits in the fourth semester are for completing and defending the IS.

To graduate, students must earn a total of 36 credits with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Twelve credits come from required courses, 18 from electives, and 6 from the IS. In addition, students must successfully pass a comprehensive examination—a closed-book, essay-based written test that evaluates their knowledge of theories, concepts, and current issues in international relations.
2-year program
  • Coursework: 10 courses for 30 credits (12 required + 18 elective)
  • Independent Study (IS): 6 credits
  • Total: 36 credits
  • MIR Program
  • Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University
  • Phone: +66 2 221 6111 to 20, Ext. 813411
  • Email: mir@tu.ac.th
  • Address: 2 Prachan Road, Bangkok 10200
  • Working hours: 9:00AM - 3:00PM
  • Office closed (October 2025): October 13, 23 & 26

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