A computer for accessing Blackboard, websites and electronic journals.
Course texts and course leaving pack

The first essay will require you to apply conceptual and theoretical insight to historical or contemporary material specific to the course. [Learning Outcomes 1,3,4]

The second essay will require you to show your overall appreciation of the concerns of the module. It will enable you to demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of the module and your flexibility in applying your knowledge to specific concerns. [Learning Outcomes 1,2,3]

The virtual seminar presentation (1000 words) will require you to focus precisely and concisely on a narrow topic, analyse it and communicate your conclusions to the group [Learning Outcomes 2,3]

A pass (Grade point 7-9) is awarded only when all of the assessment is complete and the work meets the learning objectives of the module.

A merit performance (Grade point 10-12) is indicated by an exemplary performance in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

A distinction performance (Grade point 13) will be indicated by excellence in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

K.Booth (ed), Statecraft and Security (1998)
B.Buzan et al., A New Framework for Analysis (1998)

This module explores the changing nature of security studies from origins in the study of military strategy.

The theories of Sun Tzu and Clausewitz. War as policy and the importance of strategic theory. Interwar theories of strategic bombing and the experience of the Second World War: Douhet and Trenchard. Vulnerability of the state.

Theories of deterrence and the nuclear age. Political realism and nuclear weapons. Wohlstetter, Kahn and Schelling. The evolution of NATO strategy. Theories of arms races and arms control.

Peace Research as critque and alternative perspective. Wright, Richardson and Galtung. North-South security issues.

Post-cold war security. The 'new security architecture' in Europe. NATO, Partnership for Peace and OSCE. Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction: State and non-state threats.

Critical security studies.

The main focus will be on self instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course material (delivered via blackboard), which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking the specific tasks set. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor. (24 hours) The module will run over 16 weeks including 4 weeks to complete assessments.

Optional introductory workshops at Staffordshire will be provided for those students able to travel here at the start of each semester. These will introduce you to the Blackboard learning environment and the main theories of the module for that semester. Similar material will be made available online to those unable to attend the workshops.