2025/26 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

MODL5724M International Organisations: Context, Theory and Practice

30 Credits Class Size: 70

Module manager: Gary Hernandez
Email: g.hernandez@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2025/26

Module replaces

MODL5028M

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

The module equips you with a broad understanding of the history, theory, and practice of International Organisations (IOs). Key topics and case studies typically cover issues of security, trade, development and human rights, as well as working practices within IOs, with a particular focus on language policy and the work of professional linguistics within such organisations. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.

Objectives

This module is designed to enable you to develop your ability to both analyse the nature of IOs and discuss knowledgeably the topics that lie at the heart of their work, all with a view to enhancing your professional aptitude to work within such organisations in your future career.

The module will consist of interactive lectures and seminars that will encourage you to take an active role in all aspects of your learning.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, you will be able to:

LO1 Position and contextualise International Organisations within a broader international system.
LO2 Evaluate different IR theoretical positions in relation to the role of International Organisations in world politics.
LO3 Analyse key international issues of Collective Security, development, trade, human rights and humanitarianism along with associated International Organisations
LO4 Evaluate a specific International Organisation of interest.

On successful completion of the module, you will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:

SO5. Weigh up different arguments and perspectives, using supporting evidence to form opinions, arguments, theories and ideas.
SO6. Write in a clear, concise, focused and structured manner that is supported by relevant evidence.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 10 1 10
Seminar 10 1 10
Private study hours 280
Total Contact hours 20
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 300

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Student progress will be monitored through in-class discussion. For the in-class assessed presentations, groups of students will be encouraged to consult with the tutor in advance to ensure that their plans are suitable. Equally, students will be encouraged to discuss essay plans with the tutor to ensure that they are on the right track before submission.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Coursework Portfolio 60
Presentation Group presentation 40
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

If a group fails the presentation then there will be an opportunity to resit in the August resit period. The presentation can take the form of a recording.

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 30/04/2025

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team