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. (This makes up the 24 contact 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 to Stoke-on-Trent at the start of each semester. These will introduce you to the Blackboard learning environment and the main aims of the module. Similar material will be made available online to those unable to attend the workshops.

This module enables students to see Foreign Policy Analysis as an important part of the study of international Relations. Students learn how some of the main approaches to International Relations interpret and attempt to explain foreign policy. Students are encouraged to consider the ways in which several approaches can in their different ways contribute to the understanding of foreign policy making.

The module encourages students to critically analyse some of the most prominent and important approaches to foreign policy. The roles of states and other actors in the foreign policy-making process are examined. The ways in which international actors and processes influence foreign policy decision-making are considered. Likewise, the module considers the influence of actors and processes in domestic politics and society.

The theoretical material of the module is combined with a selection of illustrative case studies. These studies include the Cuban missile crisis and some more recent cases. Students are encouraged to consider the case studies whilst bearing in mind the theoretical and other material of the module.

The first essay will require you to apply conceptual and theoretical insights to historical or contemporary material specific to Foreign Policy Analysis. [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3]

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, 4, 5]

The virtual seminar presentation (1000 words) will require you to focus precisely and concisely on a topic, analyse it and communicate your conclusions to the group. [Learning outcomes 2 + 3 or 4]

You are required to participate in and contribute substantially to at least 5 weeks of the weekly discussions, in addition to the week in which you present your virtual learning seminar. [1, 2, 3, 4]

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.

S. Smith, A. Hadfield and T. Dunne (eds.), Foreign Policy: Theories, Actors, Cases, Oxford University Press, 2008.

V.M. Hudson, Foreign Policy Analysis: Classic and Contemporary Theory, Rowman and Littlefield, 2007.

C. Hill, The Changing Politics of Foreign Policy, Palgrave Macmillan, 2002.

A computer for accessing Blackboard, websites, and electronic journals. Course texts and course material CD.