Introduction to Politics and International Relations
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CELEN068 | Centre for English Language Education | 0 | 20 | Autumn China |
- Code
- CELEN068
- School
- Centre for English Language Education
- Level
- 0
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
This module is an introduction to the study of politics and international relations (IR). It will familiarize students with the basic concepts and theories; issues and concerns; and the key historical case studies that constitute and drive the discipline. The module promotes critical thought about contemporary and controversial issues in world politics, and the ability to articulate this thought clearly and concisely in both the written and spoken word.
Target Students
Year one International Studies Students
Classes
- One 1-hour-30-minute seminar each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: 1,000-word essay
- 50% End of Semester Exam (1-hour-30-minute): 1.5 h exam
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
The aims of the module are to provide students with a set of conceptual and analytical tools concerning the nature of contemporary politics and international relations; to understand the historical context in which the discipline arose; the case studies that are key to IR; and to provide a background for eventual careers in many fields – including work in government, international organisations, academic work, research, business and the media – all of which require articulate, clear thinking individuals with a grasp of contemporary international relations.Learning Outcomes
Intellectual skills (Knowledge and Understanding)
- An understanding of what political science is, and how IR fits therein
- An understanding of basic concepts and theories that are pertinent to IR
- A grasp of a set of conceptual and analytical tools concerning the nature of contemporary international relations
- An understanding of the historical context in which the discipline arose, and a number of key historical case studies in IR
- Professional practical skills
A background in IR that will assist them with eventual careers in fields including work in government, international organisations, academic work, research, business and the media – which require articulate, clear thinking individuals with a grasp of contemporary international relations - The ability to seek information to make informed judgments and think critically about contemporary and controversial issues in world politics
Conceptual and analytical tools that will assist students in problem solving and analysis in the discipline of IR
Transferable (key) skills
- The ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely in both the written and spoken word - Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Basic skills in argumentation, thought organization, persuasive writing, and referencing
- Improvements in English language oral, listening and writing skills for non-native English speakers
Conveners
- Mr William Shipton
Last updated 09/01/2025.