INTR8011 International Relations Theory

INTR8011 is only available under certain award programs.

Offered By	Dept International Relations
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	International Relations
Offered in	First Semester, 2009 and First Semester, 2010
Unit Value	12 units
Course Description	‘Theories of International Relations' is the core compulsory course for students enrolled in the Master of International Affairs and the Master of Arts in International Relations degrees. Designed as a foundation for other courses in the Graduate Studies in International Affairs program, ‘Theories' introduces students to the principal schools of thought that have evolved to understand international relations and global politics, from classical realism and liberalism to feminism and poststructuralism. Its central theme is the tension between the empirical and normative aspects of all theories, a product of their nature as practical discourses. The overall aim of the course is to develop students' theoretical literacy, and to enhance their capacities to reason theoretically about core issues and problems in international relations.
Learning Outcomes	This course is designed to give students: An appreciation of the centrality of theorizing to all thinking about international relations. An understanding of the principal theoretical perspectives that have been developed to understand international relations and global politics, and an appreciation of how individual theories have evolved in relation to one another and within particular social and historical contexts. An ability to engage with theories critically and reflectively. An ability to reason theoretically through written and spoken communication. The course is taught by a leading specialist on international relations theory, and is taught through face to face, seminar based teaching over the course of a semester.
Indicative Assessment	The course has three pieces of assessment: Small assignment (1500 words): a short, focused comparison of two theoretical works, designed to develop students' theoretical comprehension and capacity to engage systematically and critically with clearly delineated sets of ideas. Due end of week 4. Major essay (5000 words): a long research paper that gives students the opportunity to explore in detail a theory of theoretical issue that particularly interests them. Due end of week 9. Final exam (three hours): a major examination sat under formal exam conditions. The question is, however, provided to students one week prior to the exam to encourage reflection and dialogue. The exam has one question only, designed to have students reflect back over the themes and content of the course as a whole.
Workload	12 hours per week: two for seminar attendance, and ten for reading and writing. Please note this is a general guide, averaged over the semester and the final hours ultimately depend on the individual's ability in reading and writing.
Course Classification(s)	AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest	International Relations
Eligibility	Students must be enrolled in the Graduate Studies in International Affairs program.
Technology Requirements	Students need access to a computer with a Microsoft Word and access to the internet.
Programs	Master of Arts (International Relations) and Master of International Affairs
Other Information	Delivery Mode: Semester 1 2009, on campus, seminar-style.
Academic Contact	Mr Greg Fry

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.