Several years ago, I had a choice between LSE International Relations and KCL War Studies. I chose LSE. For those who might follow and face the same dilemma, I share the reasons why I decided on LSE and why I did not regret in retrospect. (I just focus on the comparison between LSE IR and KCL WS because there is no question that LSE IR is better than KCL IR).
First, LSE offers a broader intellectual landscape. I was genuinely interested in security studies, but I thought it made more sense to study IR theory properly before narrowing down to security studies. All the professors I talked to agreed with me. Plus, you can seek advice from KCL experts with regional/technical expertise whenever you want, as these schools are next to each other (I actually visited some KCL professors, who kindly welcomed me during their office hours). So, unless you are a PhD student and have a specific KCL professor in mind, it’s better start broader at LSE.
Second, LSE offers excellent methodology courses. If you intend to go on for research, you should get ready for methodology asap, no matter how boring it is. LSE’s social science methodology courses are second to none.
Third, at LSE, I met some of the most brilliant students I’ve ever seen. A friend of mine had rejected an offer from Oxford and came to LSE instead. Many of my former classmates have proceeded to PhD at Oxbridge or other good schools in North America. It might sound crude, but it really helps to have smart friends. You can exchange comments for essays and develop ideas together.
Fourth, LSE definitely has a better reputation around the world. LSE ranks constantly higher in major university rankings, and is better known in the US.
Fifth and finally, I’ve got a research job I wanted. Period.
Of course, I cannot do a counterfactual experiment (“what if I had chosen KCL?”). Nobody can. The point is to make a decision that you are less likely to regret later. In my case at least, LSE worked well.