Postgraduate Module Descriptor


POLM503: Foreign Policy Decision-Making

This module descriptor refers to the 2019/0 academic year.

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics:

  • introduction to key psychological concepts in foreign policy and international relations,
  • decision-making models,
  • decision-making in times of crisis,
  • introduction to rational choice theory,
  • strategies for political leaders across different regime types,
  • the role of public opinion and leader motivations in coercive foreign policies. 

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching ActivitiesGuided independent studyPlacement / study abroad
22278

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

CategoryHours of study timeDescription
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activity2211 x 2 hour seminars. These will primarily consist of guided discussions where topics can be explored further through debate.
Guided Independent Study66Reading texts for class
Guided Independent Study37Preparing questions and answers based on weekly readings
Guided Independent Study45Preparing small group op-ed
Guided Independent Study100Essay preparation
Guided Independent Study30Preparation for and completion of written take-home assignment

Online Resources

This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).

Other Learning Resources

Other materials and resources will be identified by the module convener in lectures and/or via ELE.