The module will focus on key concepts in IR like power, national interest, war, balance of power, institutionalism, interdependence, dependence, behaviouralism and post-behaviouralism. Students will be introduced to these concepts within the historical and theoretical context in which they arose, and to become familiar with the theoretical frameworks (Realism, Liberalism, Transnationalism, Dependency and World Systems Analysis) within which these concepts occur. They will also develop some familiarity with the main trends of 20th Century history, and the interaction between real-life events and theoretical developments in IR.

The assessment is in two parts;
1 x 2000 word essay requiring them to critically evaluate concepts/conceptual frameworks in IR (learning outcomes 1,2,3,4) weighted at 50%

1x 2 hour unseen class test (learning outcomes1, 2, 3,4) weighted at 50%.

Lectures will initially provide an introduction to historical events, the theoretical frameworks and the significance and inter-relatedness of the two and then focus upon the key concepts in IR theory.

Seminars and workshops will deepen knowledge and develop skills of analysing concepts and theories, and their contemporary relevance and applicability, and encourage students to engage in debate.

Tutorials will provide students with assistance in preparing for their assessments.

William Keylor, Twentieth Century World (5th ed) OUP, 2005.
Peter Calvocoressi, World Politics, 1945-2000, 9th Ed. Longman, 2008.
Vioti and Kauppi, International Relations Theory (3rd ed) Prentice Hall, 1998
Jackson and Sorenson , Introduction to International Relations (3rd edition) OUP, 2007.

Recommended Library books, Journals and e-resources.
DVD and video
OHP's and screens
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available(where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.