SGIA49630: International Relations Theory

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• This module is a graduate-level introduction to International Relations (IR) 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.

• 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
• Different methodological traditions that have shaped the study of international relations/international politics
• Topics studied may include the following
• Realism
• Idealism
• Liberalism
• Marxism
• Critical Theory
• Feminism
• Post-colonialism
• Post-structuralism
• The English School
• Global IR
• Security
• Ethics and War
• Democratic Peace
• The Environment
• Justice
• Power
• Sovereignty

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• By the end of the module, students should have:
• Demonstrated depth of knowledge of key concepts and theories in International Relations;
• Critically reviewed specific debates and understanding of the complexity of different literatures within International Relations;
• Demonstrated a deep appreciation of the significance of theory in political research.

Subject-specific Skills:

• 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, including the limits of current knowledge;
• Demonstrated sophistication in the use of methodological ideas and approaches to theorising.

Key Skills:

• By the end of the module, students should have :
• Practiced working autonomously within a defined framework of study at an advanced level;
• Independently identified, evaluated, and used relevant sources for advanced academic research;
• Communicated complex ideas in a clear, concise, and engaging manner with their peers;
• Taken responsibility for completing assigned work within a deadline;
• Effective written communication of research and policy applications;
• Reflected critically on their own work and performance.

• 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.
• Formative assessment is a 1,500-word written assignment. The formative is an opportunity for students to receive feedback on how well they understand key concepts and theories within International Relations, effectively apply these concepts, and develop sophisticated work within a deadline. Formative assessments prepare students for summative assessments.
• Summative assessment will consist of a 1,500-word written assignment and a 3,000-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.

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