This module introduces students to the concept and practice of security governance since the end of the Cold War. It begins by exploring security governance in theory and traces the conceptual development of security governance in the context of other theoretical readings of security cooperation, such as the balance-of-power, multilateralism and security community. The module then examines security governance in practice in two regional contexts and explores how the attendant forces of globalisation have shaped state relations and national security culture. The final week examines a particular issue area requiring security governance. The module aims to equip students with knowledge of change in national security culture and identity in response to increasingly complex global security issues, and with knowledge of the consequences of these responses to the organisation of regional models of security governance.

The essay is designed to enhance practical research skills (problem-solving and application). It will also require an in-depth study of an area of security governance (enquiry; knowledge and understanding and research, analysis, application, communication) (Learning Outcomes 1-4)

The participation grade encourages engaged and consistent learning. This builds up subject-knowledge as well as enhancing communication and analysis skills. You are expected to post a 500-word answer to the week’s set question. The participation grade is worked out on the number of these you do each week and how well you engage with the posts of others. (Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

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 students 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 students will be expected to interact and share material and ideas with other students in their learning group and their tutor.

1. On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the theoretical context of security governance.

Enquiry; Knowledge and Understanding; Learning.

2. On completion of this module, you will be able to critically analyse conceptual debates and policy developments in security governance.

Knowledge and Understanding; Learning; Enquiry; Application; Reflection

3. On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate a systematic understanding of changes in regional and national security culture/policy with respect to security governance.

Analysis; Enquiry; Learning; Problem-solving; Reflection

4. On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate well-researched and developed pieces of work in appropriate academic style.

Analysis; Application; Enquiry; Learning

Students will need a computer and regular internet in order to access Blackboard, the electronic reading list and the e-resources of the University Library.

Spyros Economides and James Sperling (2018) (eds), EU Security Strategies: Extending the EU System of Security Governance, Routledge, London

James Sperling (eds) (2014), The Handbook of Governance and Security, Edward Elgar, Cheltenham.

Emil J. Kirchner and James Sperling (eds) (2010), National Security Cultures: Patterns of Global Governance, Routledge, London.

Emil J. Kirchner and Roberto Dominguez, The Security Governance of Regional Organizations, Routledge, London.

Ursula C. Schroeder (2011), The Organization of European Security Governance: Internal and External Security in Transition, Routledge, London.

Mark Webber (2007), Inclusion, Exclusion and the Governance of European Security, Manchester University Press, Manchester.