International relations

Introduction to International Relations

Module code: L2008
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Essay, Coursework

On this module, you’ll be introduced to the academic study of international relations. The module outlines the specific characteristics of International Relations (IR) as a distinct scholarly discipline, separate from other disciplines such as politics or sociology. The module:

• considers what has defined IR as a discipline
• what constitutes its core conceptual and methodological coordinates at the present time.

The module approaches these questions through a consideration of the historical development of IR through a series of conceptual and methodological debates. Classically, these debates are conceived of as tracing a path from idealism via realism to a pluralist methodological position. Understanding these debates, the circumstances that have given rise to them, and the methods they have generated, will give you a good orientation in the disciplinary terrain of IR. 

Module learning outcomes

• Understand the reasons for IR as a separate social science.
• Develop an initial understanding of the main IR paradigms and subfields.
• Understand the relationship between theory and practice in IR.
• Produced, in an academically acceptable manner, an essay in which they have demonstrated the ability to write about theoretical issues in International Relations.