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Sussex launches new dual Masters programme with Luiss University in Rome
By: Heather Stanley
Last updated: Monday, 11 May 2026
The first year of the programme is delivered in Rome, Italy, and the second at Sussex.
Masters international studies and development students can now undertake a two-year dual Masters programme offered by Luiss University in Rome and the University of Sussex taught in English by faculty with wide international research expertise and extensive teaching experience.
The first year of the programme - which provides in-depth interdisciplinary knowledge of contemporary global challenges at the intersection of political, environmental and security issues – is delivered in Rome, Italy, and the second at Sussex.
Students can take one of two optional paths - International Relations, Security and Development, or International Relations, Environment and Development. The former combines the Master’s Degree Programme in International Relations (Laurea Magistrale) at Luiss with the Conflict, Security and Development MA at Sussex and a unique opportunity to explore the intersections of global politics, security and development. The latter combines the Master’s Degree Programme in International Relations (Laurea Magistrale) at Luiss with the Environment, Development and Policy MA at Sussex and equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle global challenges at the nexus of international politics, environmental sustainability and development.
Students of both pathways can do research placements at institutions ranging from international organisations to local NGOs and take part in field trips, enhancing their employability in public and private sectors.
The partnership with Luiss was made possible thanks to the connections and endeavours of Fabio Petito, Professor of Religion and International Affairs at the University of Sussex and Sussex Director of the two new Dual Masters programmes. Speaking of his hopes for the new Dual Masters Programme, Fabio said:
“I am delighted that two world leading universities in the field of international relations and development have joined forces in creating a unique learning programme in Europe which combines the best of a 2-year EU second-cycle qualification with the internationally renowned UK post-graduate taught experience. This opens new perspectives and opportunities for our university which are very exciting for teaching and research collaboration.”
Professor Rosario Forlenza, Director of the programme at Luiss, added:
“We are delighted to partner with the University of Sussex on this new Dual Masters Programme, which offers students a distinctive international learning experience across Rome and Sussex. By combining the strengths of both institutions, the programme will equip students with the interdisciplinary knowledge, practical skills and global perspective needed to address today’s major political, environmental, security and development challenges.”