Undergraduate Module Descriptor

POL1027: Strategic Theory and Contemporary International Conflict

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

Module Aims

This module will aim to:

  • Give you a basic grounding in a range of theoretical approaches to strategy
  • Introduce you to topics that are currently important in the international arena such as inter-state conflicts, civil and ethnic conflicts, transnational terrorism, international alliances, arms races and deterrence.
  • Provide you with an understanding of how employing a strategic framework can help governments design effective policies in a globalized age.
  • Expose you to emerging and future threats in contemporary international affairs.
  • Provide you a dynamic learning environment in which to develop and test ideas interactively
  • Provide you with an intellectual ‘toolkit’ with which to understand aspects of the security environment of the 21st century.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate knowledge of a range of contemporary strategic theory as applied to mass violence and conflict
2. Demonstrate knowledge of how applying theory to current strategic problems can help us understand them
3. Demonstrate knowledge of current threats and patterns in contemporary international conflict
Discipline-Specific Skills4. Critically examine how the strategic approach to international relations changes the way in which current strategic problems are conceptualized
5. Demonstrate awareness of the key concepts and debates relating to the strategic approach to international relations
Personal and Key Skills6. Demonstrate the ability to work independently, within a limited time frame, and without access to external sources, to complete a specified task.
7. Communicate effectively in speech and writing
8. Demonstrate critical and analytical skills through tutorial discussions and module assessments
9. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the internet and online journal databases