International Relations BA (Hons)

International Security, Interdependence and Organisation

introduces the major theoretical and analytical problems in the field, including the concept of war, conflict and security; interdependence among states and international organisations; and the practice of interdependence in global politics and security.

Introduction to International Relations

provides an overview of the field of international relations including its historical context and traditions of thought. The module addresses core concepts in the field including power, sovereignty, the international system, the international society, the state and norms.

Perspectives of Political Economy

through an enquiry-based learning approach to contemporary issues in everyday life, the module introduces you to the central concerns of political economy as an inter-disciplinary social science that focuses on the relationship between political and economic systems, agents and institutions.

Researching Politics and International Relations

introduces a range of strategies used to produce knowledge in politics and international relations. This module examines the strengths and weaknesses of a range of research methods. You will gain some practical experience of carrying out research in politics and international relations.

In recent years optional modules have included: Democratic Political SystemsIntroduction to Political TheoryIntroduction to Comparative Politics

International Organisations

examines the role of key organisations in international relations, and their external impact. Looking at organisations such as the United Nations, the European Union, the World Trade Organization, NATO, ASEAN, etc., you will gain an understanding of the dynamic nature of global governance with emphasis on the dynamics of the global international environment.

International Theory

develops knowledge of the major debates in contemporary international relations theory. The module helps to build a wider understanding of theoretical, conceptual and methodological matters in the study of domestic and international politics.

Research Project

is an extended piece of work produced within a structured framework that will help prepare you for the demands of writing a dissertation. You will gain a deeper understanding of politics as an academic subject and as an aspect of wider human activity.

In recent years optional modules have included: International TheoryPolitics and International Relations of East AsiaFoundations of Western Political ThoughtInternational OrganisationsSovereignty, State and EmpireCapitalism: History and TheoryMiddle East in the International SystemGender and PoliticsDebates in Political TheoryAnalytical PoliticsDemocracy, Conflict and American Society

Dissertation

is a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of politics. It develops your ability to plan and manage your own learning and provides you with an opportunity to research a specific topic in greater depth and present your findings and conclusions.

In recent years optional modules have included: British Political ThoughtMuslims and Politics in the Modern WorldTheories of LibertyThe American PresidencyChina in Global Political EconomyIsrael: Politics and SocietyPolitical Psychology in International RelationsWoman, Gender and Politics in the USElections and British PoliticsAdvanced Readings in Political EconomySpecial Topic on the American Presidential ElectionAre Voters Really Rational? The Political Economy of Political Behaviour and its DiscontentsAdvanced Topics in International Relations.