The module introduces students to a range of important and influential theories in the study of International Relations. It focuses on some of the major theorists and the concepts one finds in their work. The aims are to facilitate an understanding of some of the most influential ideas and tenets in International Relations theory; to help develop an appreciation of the lasting influence of the theories, focusing on the importance of key changes and developments; and to encourage analysis of the key ideas, tenets and arguments, considering their significance today.

Research paper (20%) Requires students to select a topic from a selection relevant to the module and research, reflect, plan, write, draft and reference a precis on this topic. Achievement is assessed in Learning Outcomes Knowledge and Understanding, Analysis, Reflection.

Essay (80%) Requires students to select a topic from a selection relevant to the module and research, critically reflect and design an argument before planning, writing, drafting and referencing their essay-length response to the question. Achievement is assessed in Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding, Enquiry, Reflection, Analysis, Reflection,
Application, Communication via these methods.

Key Information Set Data:
100% Coursework

The learning materials and items we advise you to read for each topic introduce the main themes and arguments of the module content. This helps you to develop definitions, and to compare, contrast and analyse important and influential International Relations theories. The seminars provide for discussion and analysis of the themes. The independent study element should be used for further reading and preparation of the written assignments.

1. DEMONSTRATE A SCHOLARLY APPRECIATION OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF INFLUENTIAL INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORIES, THE IMPORTANT THEORISTS AND THEIR KEY IDEAS, CONCEPTS AND TENETS.

Knowledge and Understanding

2. COMPARE AND CONTRAST THE WORK OF INFLUENTIAL INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORISTS.
Enquiry
Reflection

3. ANALYSE DEBATES ABOUT INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORY, IDENTIFYING STRENGTHS AND PROBLEMS WITH IDEAS, CONCEPTS AND TENETS.

Analysis
Reflection

4. APPLY ACADEMIC SKILLS AND INTELLECTUAL ABILITY IN THE ANALYSIS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORY.

Application
Communication

Teaching space with digital projection.
Library access plus students’ own textbooks; supplied course packs of readings; e-books; e-journals; relevant websites.
Blackboard VLE
Computer with internet access

Dunne, T. Kurki, M and Smith, S. (2016) International Relations Theories: Discipline and Diversity, 4th ed (Oxford University Press)

Jackson and Sorensen (2018), Introduction to International Relations (Oxford University Press)

Baylis and Smith (2019), The Globalization of World Politics (Oxford University Press)

Lamb and Robertson-Snape (2017) Historical Dictionary of International Relations (Rowman and Littlefield) [e-book]