BA Degree in International Relations

Open University validated as BA (HONS) Social Sciences: International Relations with Combined Studies

This major examines the historical, ideological, economic and political aspects of international affairs. The program familiarizes students with the central concerns of international relations – foreign policy analysis, international organizations, strategic studies, diplomacy, international political economy, international law and international relations theory. Classroom-based instruction is supplemented by opportunities to participate in comprehensive overseas research and discussion trips. The major provides an excellent foundation for careers in international organizations, government agencies, the diplomatic service, international business and finance and international media. It also prepares students for more specialized graduate studies in international relations.

Degree requirements

The Richmond core course requirements (34-41 credits)

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Lower division requirements (30 credits)

ECN 3100 (3 CREDITS) - Foundations of Economics
This course will introduce students to the foundations of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory and to aspects of international economics and development economics. The fundamental concepts address the behaviour of consumers and producers, the role of the government and to economic policies to influence economic growth, inflation or unemployment. The course also explores reasons for trade between nations and the role of currencies. You will also come across some answers as to why some nations are poor and some are wealthy.


PLT 3100 (3 CREDITS) - Foundations of Politics
Introduces students to the study of politics by defining, exploring and evaluating the basic concepts of politics through the analysis of modern and contemporary ideologies. It outlines some of the central issues in the study of politics such as the nature of the political itself; power and authority in the state; political obligation; the rights and duties of the citizen; liberty and equality; economic systems and modes of production through the scope of central political ideologies such as liberalism, Marxism, conservatism, feminism, multiculturalism and environmentalism.


PLT 3105 (3 CREDITS) - Comparative Political Systems
Examines the political experience, institutions, behavior and processes of the major political systems. Analyses major concepts, approaches and methods of political science in order to produce comparative analyses of different states and governments and provide a critical understanding of political decision-making processes in modern states.

Plus one of the following:

HST 3100 (3 CREDITS) - World Cultural History I
The course serves as a broad introduction to world cultures from the beginnings of humankind in Africa through to the end of Western Roman Empire in AD476. The peoples and cultures covered include: Neolithic society, Sumeria, Egypt, the Hittites, Assyria, Persia, the Greek world (including Alexander the Great and the successor kingdoms of the East), Han China, Rome, Islam, and the Byzantine Empire. The course aims to give the student a general understanding and appreciation of some of the art, architecture, philosophy, literature, religion, and politics of the cultures being studied. It also draws attention to diversity as well as similarities within and between regions and countries, emphasising the considerable interaction that occurred between different places and peoples. Specific attention will be paid to how historians study the past, including different forms of evidence and historiographical debates.


HST 3105 (3 CREDITS) - World Cultural History II
This course is designed to study in broad outline the origins of global interdependence, from 1500-1800. The politics, religion, art and architecture of European, Islamic and East Asian cultures will be studied. In world terms, the period is most noteworthy for the impact of European expansionism, sustained by scientific invention and commercial acquisitiveness, underpinned by religion. While the class work focuses on the discussion of broad themes supported by close reading of relevant primary texts, students will practice presenting specific topics in group oral presentations. Class visits are scheduled to relevant exhibitions in London.

DEV 4100 (3 CREDITS) - Rich World / Poor World
Provides students with an introduction to development studies, seeking to explain both the existence of and persistence of a Poor World from a political, sociological, historical and economic perspective. The course addresses numerous issues as they affect the Poor World, and studies relations both within and between Poor World and Rich World. Topics include colonialism and post-colonialism, processes of industrialization, food security, inequality, nationalism, aid, democratization, and conflict, as well as an introduction to theories of development.


ECN 4110 (3 CREDITS) - Introduction to Macroeconomics
This course introduces students to a theoretical treatment of national income and its key component parts. Macroeconomic models are used to examine policy issues and contemporary problems relating to output, income, spending and employment as well as inflation and growth. Prerequisite: MTH 105/3110 or ECN 3100.

Prerequisits (ECN 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or (MTH 3110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLAC/ MATH < min score =3 > ))

INR 4100 (3 CREDITS) - Introduction to International Relations
This course is a broad introductory survey of international relations. It acquaints students with the fundamental concepts and theories used in the discipline that help us make sense of our political world, and are crucial for further analysis of the field. The course gives students a taste of the theoretical debates and practical dynamics of global politics. It further examines some of the major challenges that humanity faces in the 21st century. Students get a chance to learn about and take part in the major debates of the discipline, for example concerning actors in the international system, the sources of insecurity, the relevance of economics to international politics, the importance of fighting poverty and underdevelopment, questions about how best to address environmental challenges, whether the state is still important and if globalization is a phenomena of the 20th century.


INR 4105 (3 CREDITS) - Evolution of International Systems
European ‘states’ system. It will provide a comparative cultural, economic, historical, and political analysis of how international systems have evolved and functioned, illustrating the ways in which ‘states’ interact with one another within systems. It will begin with the fall of the Roman Empire in Western Europe, move through to the early European systems of the medieval period, on to the wars of religion of the sixteenth century, the defeat of Napoleon in 1813, and end with the Paris Peace Conference of 1919. This course will analyse the development of European international systems, the methods via which they were spread, and examine the elaborate rules and practices that regulate them. Prerequisites: HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105

Prerequisits HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

MTH 4120 (3 CREDITS) - Probability & Statistics I
An introductory course in probability primarily designed for business economics and psychology majors. The course coverage will include: descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory, random variables and expectations, discrete probability distributions (Binomial and Poisson distributions), continuous probability distribution (Normal distribution), linear regression analysis and correlations, elementary hypothesis testing and Chi-square tests, non-parametric methods and SPSS lab sessions targeting applications of statistical concepts to business, economics and psychology and interpretations of hardcopies. All practical work will be produced using SPSS statistical software. Prerequisites: MTH100/MTH 3000 or MTH105/MTH 3110 or math diagnostic exemption.

Prerequisits MTH 3000/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or MTH 3110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLAC/ MATH < min score =2 >

PLT 4100 (3 CREDITS) - Major Political Thinkers
This course provides students with an introduction to political thought and political philosophy, as it has developed in the Western World. The origins of modern political thought and political ideologies are discovered and explored through the study of a range of major political thinkers, such as Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Wollstonecraft, Marx, Mill, and Nietzsche.

Upper division requirements (48 credits)

DEV 5100 (3 CREDITS) - Global Development Politics
Examines the global politics of development and of developing states, and various social, economic and environmental themes surrounding post-war attempts to promote development. The course will consider both development theory and practice in the context of globalization, and provide an overview of the history of global development from economic miracles to failed states. A range of contemporary development debates and issues are addressed. Prerequisites: PLT 202/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100 or INR 203/4100 or ECN 103/4100

Prerequisits PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 5200 (3 CREDITS) - Global Governance
This course investigates cooperation and discord in international organisation. While evaluating theoretical debates and examining a selection of inter-governmental organisation, the focus is on broader questions of how the global system is organised. Students interrogate the role that power and coercion play, the inequalities and marginalisations in the international system, the nature and role of non-state actors, and the content of the global political agenda. The course critically evaluates different forms of governance from grassroots to regional governance, from global multilateral negotiations to economic crisis management. Questions about the continuity and change of global governance are addressed both holistically and in the case of specific institutions. Prerequisites: INR 203/4100 or INR 210/4105 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 5205 (3 CREDITS) - Security Studies
This course examines enduring and contemporary questions of security and insecurity in the international system. Security has traditionally been defined in terms of strategic state politics and the use of military force to counter external military threats. The end of the Cold War and the ensuing conflicts of the late-20th century raised questions about the continued relevance of traditional theories of security. New security threats have been defined both in the academic literature and by state security strategies. This course critically evaluates these developments using IR and security studies theories, supplemented by practical case-studies. Students investigate the definition of the term security and threats to security, questions about the referent object of security, the root causes of insecurity and the methods of eliminating or lessening such threats. The course evaluates traditional and contemporary security concepts such as national security, conventional weapons systems, nuclear non-proliferation, human security, responsibility to protect, the poverty-security nexus in a post-Westphalian context. Prerequisite: INR 203/4100.

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

SCL 5200 (3 CREDITS) - Social Research
Familiarizes students with the key elements of social research: the formulation of research questions, the structure of research projects, the most common types of social research methodologies, the use of new technologies in social research, and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. Prerequisite:COM 3100 or HST 3100 or HST 3105 or PLT 3100 or PLT 3105 or SCL 3100

Prerequisits (COM 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > )

plus two courses from the following:

COM 5215 (3 CREDITS) - Political Communications
The course focuses on the role of political communications in the political process. It examines the relationship between governments, the media and the public in Western democracies, with emphasis on the UK and the US political systems. Starting with an overview of the role of the media in political theory, it moves to the examination of the origins and development of political marketing and public relations, the use of political advertising by political parties, and the representation of non-governmental actors in the media coverage. Furthermore, the course considers issues of national security and secrecy as well as changes in political communications brought about by the introduction of new technologies. Particular attention is given to the use of techniques and strategies during election campaigns. Prerequisite: At least one 4000-level COM, PLT or INR course


HST 5100 (3 CREDITS) - Cultures Of Imperial Power
This course examines the causes and consequences of empires throughout history from a broad range of comparative perspectives, including the economic, political, social and (by way of postcolonial theory) the cultural. It investigates why empires are historically significant, how and why they rise and fall, whether they are good or bad, how they are defined, and how they can be resisted. The subject matter ranges from the earliest land superpowers of the ancient world to the ‘New Rome’ - the United States. It finishes by suggesting other potential contenders for imperial hegemony, including Multi National Corporations. It examines the question as to whether or not all history is essentially a history of empire, with the legacies of this imperial past (if not some of the empires themselves) still alive and well despite decolonisation. Where possible the course will make use of museums and collections within London.


HST 5105 (3 CREDITS) - Rise Of The Right: History of Fascisms
This course is intended to be a comparative study of various forms of fascisms from the end of the nineteenth century through to the modern period. It explores the fundamental interpretative questions concerning the nature of fascism, namely: whether there is such a thing as ‘generic’ fascism; the characteristics of fascist regimes; and how useful the term fascism is for historical analysis. This is followed by a study of the historical origins of fascism as well as an examination of late nineteenth/early twentieth century proto-fascist movements. The focus then moves to the individual fascist movements themselves, including Italy (where the fascist prototype evolved), Germany (where it was taken to its extreme), and Spain (where a variant persisted until 1975). Where appropriate other fascist movements and regimes will also be discussed, both western and non western. The course concludes with a discussion about the ‘return’ of fascism, examining Neo-Nazi violence, immigration, ‘ethnic cleansing’ and the return of fascism under ‘other names’. The course is intended to be interactive with guest speakers, class visits, films, and regular seminar sessions.


HST 5110 (3 CREDITS) - Nationalism And Conflict
This course is intended to be a comparative study of the various forms of nationalism, dictatorship and democracy that evolved and emerged across Central/Eastern Europe (CEE) during the ‘short’ twentieth century (1914-1990). It seeks to identify how CEE has been defined and how it came to take its present form. The main focus of this course will be on the various ideological currents that have shaped the region’s history – in particular nationalism, democracy and Communism. In addition, it will explore the conflicting arguments and different historical interpretations with regard to the key events of the period, including the development of nationalism, the emergence of fascism and Communism, the causes and courses of the two world wars and the Cold War, and finally, the causes behind the ‘reunification’ of Europe after 1989. Prerequisites: HST 102/3105 or HST 277/4110 or INR 203/4100 or INR 210/4105 or PLT 202/3105.

Prerequisits HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 5100 (3 CREDITS) - Critical Globalization Studies
This interdisciplinary course addresses the vitally important and complex phenomenon of contemporary globalization. The concept of globalization and the history of this phenomenon are interrogated. Political, social, economic and cultural aspects of globalization are discussed, and core themes of globalization debates are addressed, such as convergence, nationalism, and inequality. A range of global actors, agents and institutions are critically engaged with. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or INR 203/4100 or INR 210/4105 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100 or ECN 211/4110 or ECN 220/4115.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4115/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 5400 (3 CREDITS) - US Grand Strategy
This course examines the major issues that underlie the development of United States' foreign policy. The course considers the theoretical and actual implementation of foreign policy, firstly by examining the constitutionally mandated practitioners of such policy and secondly by exploring the execution of policy in a series of case studies covering the latter half of the Twentieth Century and early Twenty-First Century. Individuals, structures and theories are examined and explained in a course designed to convey the complexities that contribute to the formulation of U.S. Grand Strategy.

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 5405 (3 CREDITS) - Miracle To Meltdown: East & SE Asia
Follows the developmental trajectory of East and South-East Asian states in the post-colonial era. The course will address both the international context and the internal social, political and economic dynamics of these states. Particular emphasis is placed on different theoretical and empirical explanations for both the phase of rapid economic growth and development (the ‘miracle’) and the 1997/1998 Asian Economic Crisis (the ‘meltdown’). The international relations of the region are addressed through a study of ASEAN, and of the political economic significance of the ‘hot’ Cold War in East and South East Asia. Prerequisites: INR 203/4100 or INR 210/4105 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

MTH 5130 (3 CREDITS) - Game Theory and Decision Methods
This course provides an introduction to game theory and its relation to decision methods in business. The course will cover the core principles of game theory and its role in the process of decision making in business. The use of game algebra and the analyses of the structure of various types of practical statistical decision problems as applied to business will be emphasized. The areas to be studied will include decision making under uncertainty, risk analysis, Baye's strategies, decision trees, linear programming, Markov Processes, game strategies, classification of games, game trees, the Nash equilibrium, zero-sum games, mixed strategy games, the prisoner's dilemma and repeated games, collective action games and evolutionary games in the context of hawk-dove games. Applications to specific strategic situation such as in bargaining, bidding and market competition will be explored. PREREQUISITES: MTH 218/5120 OR MTH 230/4130.

Prerequisits MTH 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or MTH 4120/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5100 (3 CREDITS) - Politics Of The Middle East
Deals primarily with the politics of the Arab world, although Iran and Turkey are discussed where appropriate. Deals with issues of political and economic development in the region, as well as with geo-strategic and international concerns. This course is thematic rather than national in focus, and addresses issues such as nationalism, religion, revolution, democratization, gender politics, the politics of oil, and external influences on the Middle East. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or SCLANT 203/DEV 4100 or permission of instructor.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5200 (3 CREDITS) - Political Economy: Capitalism and Critic
This course examines the historical development of political economy, from liberal, mercantilist and radical political economy in the 18th and 19th centuries, to a range of 20th century scholars of political economy. The object of study in the course is theories of capitalism, and addressed themes include the nature of market society, the relationship between state and market, economic growth and economic crises, market failure and government failure, and the relations between capitalism, democracy, authority, and the individual. The course focuses on the study of major thinkers with regard to the capitalist system, such as Smith, Marx, Keynes, and Schumpeter. Preerquisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 222/4100 or HST 277/4110 or ECN 211/4110 or ECN 220/4115 or PHL 203/4100

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4115/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PHL 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5205 (3 CREDITS) - British Politics: Inside Parliament
This course will introduce students to the main political institutions in the United Kingdom (the monarchy, the executive, parliament, political parties and electoral systems) and to important debates in contemporary British society, such as constitutional reform, Britain’s relations with Europe, the power of the media, gender debates and multiculturalism. The class combines theoretical and empirical approaches. Classes are supplemented by 10 sessions in the House of Commons with a Member of Parliament. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or permission of instructor.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5400 (3 CREDITS) - Politics in the USA
Examines the nature of politics and political processes in the United States of America. The course considers the theoretical and actual implementation of policy. Constitutional mandates and constraints on the different branches of government are addressed, along with the impact of these on policy making processes. The course then examines and explores post-war policy practices, considering both internal and external influences on political processes in the USA. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 235/4100.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5405 (3 CREDITS) - The EU in New International System
Historical beginnings of the European Union, its institutions and its economic performance. The Single European Act, the European Monetary System, social, political and economic aspects of integration and foreign policy cooperation. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or INR 203/4100 or ECN 211/4110 or ECN 220/4115 or permission of instructor.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4115/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5410 (3 CREDITS) - Islam and The West
The aim of this course is to focus on the historical, political and religious relationships between "Islam" and the "West". Islam has for centuries been Europe's neighbour and cultural contestant with a history of conflict and co-existence. Since September 11 there has been increasing talk of a "clash of civilizations", but globalization has also created an interdependency of faiths which requires greater co-operation, understanding, and dialogue. A recurrent theme of this course will be whether it is possible to separate the world into monolithic entities called "Islam" and the "West". Why is one defined in terms of religion and the other a geographical designation? Further, we are increasingly witnessing "Islam in the West". Muslims are not confined to the Middle East but have spread in large numbers to Europe and the United States and there have been Islamic communities living in the Balkans and in parts of southern Europe for centuries. Another theme will be the relations between religion and state in Islam and Christianity. Is Islam inherently resistant to secularization as some scholars believe? Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or INR 203/4100 or INR 210/4105

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5415 (3 CREDITS) - Politics Of Sub-Saharan Africa
Follows the attempt to promote stability, economic development, and democratic systems of government in sub-Saharan Africa, and engages with the core issue of the relationship between the state, civil society, and external interests in the region. The many social, political, economic and security problems that hamper the development project are addressed, by following a historical trajectory from the colonial era through to modern times. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5420 (3 CREDITS) - Russian Politics and History
This course focuses on the political evolution of the world’s first Communist state - its birth, development, collapse and recent transformation. The course will introduce students to the major developments in Russian politics and history over the last century, from the revolution of 1905 to the First and Second World Wars, to the Cold War, the rise and fall of the Soviet Union and to its successor. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 5425 (3 CREDITS) - Modern China
Examines aspects of China’s history such as the Opium Wars, the downfall of the Empire in 1911, the growth of nationalism and the ensuing civil war, the rise and decline of Maoism and the role of China in world politics, with particular reference to its increasing economic importance. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or SCLANT 206/DEV 4100 or ECN 211/4110 or ECN 220/4115 or permission of instructor.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4115/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6200 (3 CREDITS) - International Relations Theory
The theories of international relations are best introduced through a study of the classic texts and debates in the discipline. This course examines most of the theories and approaches to international politics, as well as their historic foundations. It begins with some philosophical debates regarding the purpose of theorising, the importance of understanding ontological and epistemological assumptions and the difference between ‘understanding’ and ‘explaining’ in international relations theory. The course then critically evaluates the grand and middle range theories of IR, followed by a multitude of multidisciplinary approaches to conceptualising global politics and the post-positivist critiques. The course provides students with a set of conceptual and analytical tools in order to acquire a deeper and more nuanced understanding of international relations and global politics. Prerequisites: INR 317/5200 or INR 328/5205 or PLT 350/5200.

Prerequisits INR 5200/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 5205/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 5200/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6205 (3 CREDITS) - International Political Economy
Examines the revival of IPE since the 1970s through studying the contribution of key scholars to the discipline, then engages in a study of core problems of the contemporary international political economy. This course assumes that the separation of politics and economics is artificial and works toward a synthesis of the two to understand the globalizing world, and engages in a study of the state-of-the-art of the discipline. Prerequisites: INR 317/5200 or PLT 350/5200 or PLT 312/DEV 5100 or ECN 353/5105.

Prerequisits INR 5200/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 5200/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 5100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 5105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6210 (3 CREDITS) - The Politics of International Law
This course examines the concept, scope and nature of Public International Law and its significance in the context of the international political system. It examines both the legal approach to international politics and the IR approach to public international law. The course explores key issues in international law such as: the nature of international laws, the significance of state practice, the sources and jurisdiction of law, the role of law in limiting the use of force, governing environmental politics and trade.. Questions of statehood are examined and case studies discussed to shed light on the controversies that characterise legal debates such as evaluation of the war in Iraq, the independence of Kosovo and South Sudan, the attitudes of the US towards international law, the role of International Tribunals and the United Nations. PLT MAJORS SHOULD NOT ENROL IN THIS COURSE. Prerequisites: INR 317/5200, INR 238/5205, or PLT 312/DEV 510.

Prerequisits INR 5200/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 5205/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 5100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6296 (3 CREDITS) - Snr Seminar in International Relations 1
This research intensive course for the major is the first part of a two semester sequence taken in the Senior year. Students produce a research proposal, a literature review and a substantial draft that feeds directly into Senior Seminar 2 which culminates in a 8,000 - 10,000 word dissertation. Students are guided through the various stages of proposal and dissertation writing, and draft work is supervised regularly in a process of continuous feedback. Prerequisite: SCLANT 203/SCL 5200

Prerequisits SCL 5200/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6297 (3 CREDITS) - Snr Seminar in International Relations 2
Senior Seminar 2 is second half of the research intensive course for the major. Building directly on the writing completed in Senior Seminar 1, students produce an 8,000-10,000 word thesis driven research paper. Students are guided through the various stages of drafting and revising their final dissertation, and orally present their research according to conference standards as part of the formative process. Prerequisite: INR 6296.

Prerequisits INR 6296/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

plus six of he following OR Internship and four of following:

DEV 6200 (3 CREDITS) - Sustainable Development
Examines the theoretical assumptions and practical outcomes of ‘sustainable development’. The course explicitly focuses on the political, social and economic complexity of managing environmental issues in developing states. The tension between developmental and environmental issues is often a determining factor in the formation and implementation of policy at both national and international level, and sustainable development has provided a framework for managing these tensions. Prerequisites: PLT 312/DEV 5100 or ECN 353/5105 or PLT 320/6140

Prerequisits DEV 5100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 5105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 6410/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

DEV 6205 (3 CREDITS) - Postcolonial Theory and Development
This course seeks to examine key arguments by theorists of postcolonialism and their implications for development studies. Postcolonial theory has offered some of the most profound critiques of Western modernity’s self-representations and claims to truth and progress. Such critiques have significant potential to reconstruct dominant understandings of development, gender, social change and emancipation. Thinkers studied might include Edward Said, Gayatri Spivak, Frantz Fanon, Aime Cesaire, Aijaz Ahmad and Leopold Senghor. Themes studied might include empire, gender and sexual politics, representation, minorities in Europe and diaspora, decolonisation, resistance and liberation. Prerequisites: PLT 312/DEV 5100 or HST 319/5100 or PHL 307/5400

Prerequisits DEV 5100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 5100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PHL 5400/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INB 6200 (3 CREDITS) - Country Risk Analysis
This course provides students with an overview of the history, methods, strengths, and limitations of economic and political risk forecasting. Economics and political risk forecasting is defined as a package of social science concepts and methods used by governments and multinational businesses to analyze the future economic and political environments in which they operate. A seminar format with extensive student participation is used. Prerequisite: ECN 211/4110.

Prerequisits ECN 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6400 (3 CREDITS) - Conflict And Peace Studies
Starts with an overview of the different theories of international conflicts, discussing different factors like identity, material factors, security, and basic human needs as forces that underlie the outbreak and reproduction of international conflicts. Focus on theories of peace and the criteria for successful conflict resolution. Examines forms of outside interventions, ranging from humanitarian intervention to joint military actions, and develops criteria of success. Considers issues that arise in countries which have experienced civil wars, such as the power of war memories or the destruction of civil and political infrastructure. Case studies are used to highlight cultural differences in conflict resolution.

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6405 (3 CREDITS) - International Human Rights
This course will cover the evolution of international human rights and of the various regional and international treaties and institutions designed for their protection. It will interrogate the fundamental tension between state sovereignty and individual rights, guaranteed by international law. It will further examine the historic and theoretical foundations of the idea of human rights in various civilizations and cultures, evaluate their legacy within western and non-western traditions, and examine their meaning and relevance in thinking about international human rights in contemporary world politics. The class principally draws on the theories and methodological approaches of the following disciplines: Sociology, International Law and International Relations The course will address the classic debate regarding the universality of international human rights. Students will have an opportunity to critically evaluate a number of specific human rights regimes as illustration of the complex politics of contemporary human rights. The course further evaluates the pressures that developments in the broader field of global politics place on the protection of human rights.

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6410 (3 CREDITS) - Diplomatic Studies
This course offers an overview of the history and practice of contemporary diplomacy. It begins with analysis of what a modern diplomat currently does, both at home and abroad, set within the context of diplomatic history and theory. The normal practice of diplomacy and the various techniques of international negotiation will be addressed by using both historical and contemporary examples. It will familiarise students with the activities of a modern diplomat within a wider historical and theoretical context. Prerequisites: INR 203/4100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 236/4105

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6415 (3 CREDITS) - Foreign Policy Analysis
Foreign Policy Analysis considers the manner in which a state arrives at its foreign policy decisions. It is, therefore, characterized by a focus on the roles of individuals in the decision-making process. The course considers the important interaction between international and domestic politics and the impact that the latter has on the implementation of foreign policy. The course addresses the manner in which individuals devise and implement policy on an international stage through a variety of comparative and case study driven approaches.

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or INR 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6420 (3 CREDITS) - Global Energy Politics
Examines some of the contemporary geo-political, economic, technical, governance and environmental issue surrounding global energy issues. We look at supply and demand tensions, transit and pipeline issues, infrastructure problems, private companies and state monopolies, deregulation and markets, innovation policy, energy and development, international cooperation, environmental stress, and energy futures. Prerequisites: INR 203/4100 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100 or ENV 123/3120 or ECN 211/4110

Prerequisits INR 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ENV 3120/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ECN 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

INR 6962 (6 CREDITS) - World Internship International Relations
The World internship is a student work placement carried out abroad, that aims to provide students from all disciplines and majors with the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to function well in a culturally diverse working environment in all key job sectors. All World internships are supervised by faculty, and all last a minimum of 8 weeks in length and are carried out full time Monday to Friday. Each student will also complete a series of assessments throughout the internship, such as keeping a written journal of their experience and preparing an internship portfolio. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the skills they are learning and the benefits gained from the internship experience, and also to help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them. During the internship, the staff of the Internship Office and a faculty supervisor work closely with each student to ensure that the placement is a successful one. Students’ final grades are based on several factors including written assignments and a report from their workplace supervisor which is taken into consideration. Prerequisites: 75 completed credit hours upon application to the World Internship, GPA of 3.0 for all majors, 2 strong academic references.


INR 6972 (6 CREDITS) - Internship In International Relations
The London internship is a student work placement that aims to provide students from all disciplines and majors with the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to function well in a culturally diverse working environment in all key job sectors. All internships are supervised by faculty, and all last a minimum of 9 weeks in length and are carried out full time Monday to Thursday/ Friday. Each student will also complete a series of assessments throughout the internship, such as keeping a written journal of their experience, preparing an internship portfolio, and delivering a final presentation. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the skills they are learning and the benefits gained from the internship experience, and also to help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them. During the internship, the staff of the Internship Office and a faculty supervisor work closely with each student to ensure that the placement is a successful one. Students’ final grades are based on several factors including, written assignments, presentation, and a report from their workplace supervisor which is taken into consideration. Prerequisite: 75 completed credit hours upon application to the London Internship, GPA of 3.0 for finance, and psychology majors and a GPA of 2.75 for all other majors, 2 strong academic references.


PLT 6200 (3 CREDITS) - Liberty Justice Equality: Contemp Pol Th
Investigates the central debates and concepts of 20th and 21st century political theory. Through a close examination of key texts representative of the spectrum of contemporary ideological positions, students will become familiar with a variety of key arguments around political concepts such as equality, freedom, democracy and justice. Students will become familiar with central ideas that have shaped political activity in the 20th and 21st centuries and will become familiar key issues discussed in contemporary political theory. Prerequisites: PLT 222/4100 or PHL 203/4100 or HST 277/4110.

Prerequisits PLT 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PHL 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6205 (3 CREDITS) - Policy-Making in a Globalized World
This course investigates the process of policy-making in modern states. It explores how in the new globalized world governments “import” and “borrow” policy ideas from each other, while analyzing how the different actors – states, bureaucrats, think-tanks, policy-networks, lobby groups, citizens, etc – participate and influence the policy-making process. Through role-play activities (such as writing a political manifesto, advising a President on a foreign-policy issue, or enacting a policy-network in the policy process) students will understand the complexities of policy-making and the challenges that the modern state faces in the era of globalization. Prerequisites: PLT 202/3105 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100.

Prerequisits PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6400 (3 CREDITS) - Pol Sociology: Power, State and Society
At the heart of political sociology is a concern with the relationship between the state and society, a relationship that, as citizens, affects us all. This course explores the link between the people and the state in three interrelated respects: the concept of power, the theory and practice of revolution and the way politics affects the social fabric of daily life in technologically advanced, multi-media societies. In addition, a discussion takes place regarding the global significance of political and social change. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or SCL 210/4110.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6405 (3 CREDITS) - Citizenship: National and Global
Examines the theoretical, political and sociological conceptions of citizenship. Tracing the development of the concept from ancient societies to the present day, it examines both the theoretical constructs and the concrete political meanings of the term. The course therefore considers the development of the nation state and the establishment of both legal and social citizenship. The course also addresses the notion of global citizenship in the context of international governance as well as the globalization of both economies and environmental issues. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or PLT 222/4100 or HST 277/4110.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6410 (3 CREDITS) - Politics Of Environmentalism
Examines the political, economic, ideological, and social dilemmas associated with environmental issues. The first section of the course addresses the historical roots of environmentalism, its key concepts, and a range of key thinkers and paradigms for understanding environmentalism as an ideology. The second section of the course explores the role of key actors engaged in environmental policy making, and important issues in contemporary environmental politics. Topics addressed include environmental movements and parties, global environmental regimes, the impact of the media on environmental issues, and prospects for green technologies and employment. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or ENV 150/3125.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or ENV 3125/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6415 (3 CREDITS) - Ethnicity and Identity
Examines the questions of whether ethnicity is a universal phenomenon, and if ethnic conflict is inevitable. Investigates why ethnicity became such an important tool of political organization in the 20th century. This course examines ethnicity, and to a lesser extent religion and nationalism, as bases of social and political belonging and differentiation and sources of both creativity and conflict. Starting with the premise that identity is socially constructed, the ways in which ethnic identity has been formed and used in different societies will be examined. Different theories of ethnicity will be explored during the course, as well as specific case studies. Key contemporary issues in the study of ethnicity and identity, such as immigration and multiculturalism, are also addressed. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6420 (3 CREDITS) - Gender, Politics and Intl Relations
Explores the field of gender and politics. It addresses both theoretical and practical concerns. Starting from an analysis of the concept of gender, the course moves on to a discussion of feminist theory, followed by feminist criticisms of political and IR theory. The main body of the course is comprised of the examination of a range of issues from gendered perspectives including: nationalism, democracy, security and war, development and political economy. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 222/4100 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100 or SCL 210/4110.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6425 (3 CREDITS) - Religion, Identity And Power
The recent emergence of a number of religious movements in many parts of the world has raised important questions about the role of religion in political and social life. This course explores the relationship between religion, political identity and its expression between and across nation-state borders. By focusing on a number of religious movements, such as various Islamic revivals and the new Christian right, this course will examine the various ways in which religious traditions are used as identity-building vehicles, particularly at times of cultural transition and social change. It examines how the internet and other communication networks serve as mediums for Religious identity formation. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or SCL 150/3100 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100 or HST 101/3100 or HST 102/3105.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or SCL 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

PLT 6430 (3 CREDITS) - Democracy and Democratization
This course analyses the rise of democracy as an idea and as a practice using both theoretical and historical approaches, and processes of democratization in both theoretical and empirical terms. The course aims to (1) provide an introduction to the central models of democracy (namely classical democracy, republicanism, liberal democracy, deliberative democracy and cosmopolitan democracy); (2) to analyse problems associated with the practice of liberal democracy, namely political engagement, the advent of post-democracy and the rise of populism: and (3) to analyse the practice of democracy in Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and its relation with Islam, particularly with reference to experiences with democratization. Prerequisites: PLT 150/3100 or PLT 202/3105 or PLT 222/4100 or HST 277/4110 or SCLPLT 206/DEV 4100.

Prerequisits PLT 3100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 3105/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or PLT 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or HST 4110/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 > or DEV 4100/Lecture < min grade =D-, min credit = 2.33 >

Downloads:

• Programme Specification for BA International Relations Spring 2013
• Degree Planner/GCL form -- for students who started in September 2012/January 2013 or later
• Degree Planner/GCL form - for students who started in September 2010 or later.
• Degree Planner/GCL form - for students who started in September 2009 or later.
• Degree Planner/GCL form - for students who started in September 2008 or later.
• Degree Planner/GCL form - for students who started in September 2007 or later.
• Degree Planner/GCL form - for students who started in September 2006 or later..