Module SGIA49630: International Relations Theory

Department: Government and International Affairs

SGIA49630: International Relations Theory

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• This module is a graduate-level introduction to International Relations (IR) theory/international theory. The module surveys both mainstream and critical approaches to the subject.
• The module provides students with an advanced understanding of select key concepts and theories in the field of International Relations/International Politics, as well as enabling students to develop skills in the usage of theory.

Content

• Module content may change from year to year, but indicative content includes:
• Introduction to the discipline/academic field of International Relations
• Theories of International Relations
• Core concepts in International Relations

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module, students should have:
• Critically review specific debates in and understanding of the complexity of different literatures within International Relations;
• Demonstrate the ability to critically engage in different approaches to theorising the international or the global.

• By the end of the module students should have:
• Critically used relevant theoretical concepts and approaches in international theory;
• Effectively described and applied advanced academic literatures;
• Identified and evaluated key disputes and debates in the context of international theory;

• By the end of the module, students should have:
• Independently identified, evaluated, and used relevant sources for advanced academic work;
• Taken responsibility for completing assigned work within a deadline;
• Effectively communicated arguments and analysis in written form;

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Students are taught through two-hour lectures. Lectures will include introductions to key topics and debates within International Relations theory by staff, but they may also include active learning components that involve student participation. Students should expect lectures to be opportunities to engage collectively with relevant readings and materials.
• Summative assessment will consist of a 1,500-word written assignment and a 2,000-word written assignment. Assignments will focus on course content, either on specific concepts and/or in relation to particular texts, thus supporting the module learning outcomes. Assignments may include the use of multimedia elements.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Students will be given ongoing feedback during interactive activities and will have the opportunity to seek clarification and ask further questions on the material arising from these activities throughout the course.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.