|SECURITY IN IR | POWER IN IR|| INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS|

Security

This module discusses the key concepts that will help you understand and critically analyse contemporary global security issues. We cover both traditional and critical theoretical discussions in security. We also analyse some of the key themes in contemporary Security Studies such as peacekeeping, peacebuilding, mediation and other conflict resolution tools.

International Relations Theory

The purpose of this module is to introduce you to the range of approaches in international theory. Within International Relations theory there are many varied interpretations and applications of key concepts (e.g. power, the state, agency, structure, and world order) as well as contested views about the practical purpose underpinning theories of world politics. This module gives you the opportunity to explore the key tenets of the major theories of international relations and secondly will encourage you to critically analyse your assumptions and ideological baggage

Researching Political Issues

The aim of this module is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the methods, techniques, and processes that are involved in the research of Politics and International Relations. The first section of the module will develop your awareness of exactly what advanced social research entails. The second section of the module will seek to deepen and enhance the knowledge gained in section one, with a series of guest speakers offering you insights into their own experiences of researching Politics and International Relations.

Dissertation, Work-based Experience or Policy Lab

The final core component of the MA International Relations course is an extended piece of written work, which entails three options that students can choose from.

The first ‘standard’ option comprises the development of a coherent and viable research proposal on a topic of your choice, with its eventual assessment being a 12,000-word dissertation. The other option involves a period of work-based learning, spending time engaging with a chosen institution or community-based organisation, either in the local Nottinghamshire community or further afield. Here, in contrast to the development of a research proposal geared for the completion of a standard 12,000-word dissertation, your assessment will comprise a research plan of how you intend to draw on your experiences, which ultimately will culminate in a written work-based project of a maximum of 10,000 words.

The Policy Labs module places an emphasis on gaining practical research experience and meaningful engagement with external (or internal) partners on a real policy issue. Policy Labs comprise small groups working in close collaboration and making their recommendations after close consultation with partners and supervision by academic staff. External partners may come from the public, private and/or civil society and academia. Internal partners may include departmental research teams and internal organisations. The program is intended to focus on policy problems within the East Midlands region, but some Policy Labs may focus on national or international issues.