Module manager: Dr Adrian Gallagher
Email: A.Gallagher@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
This module is not approved as a discovery module
We live in one world but there are many theories which offer competing interpretations of international events. This module offers students advanced training in International Relations Theory (IR) by critically analysing rival theories. As part of which, students will develop critical thinking through assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. Furthermore, lectures and seminars will apply these theories to understanding contemporary international developments and in so doing, ask students to consider the relationship between theory and practice at the international level.
Provide students with an advanced training in international relations theories. As a result, students will be able to:
i) understand the utility of theory,
ii) apply theory to contemporary international developments
iii) critical analyse rival theoretical approaches.
Demonstrate an understanding of the major themes, concepts and debates in the discipline of International Relations
Be able to critically analyse the strengths and weaknesses of each theoretical approach.
Demonstrate a critical understanding of the philosophical and practical issues that underpin the study and practice of International Relations.
The module introduces students to fundamental theoretical approaches in International Relations such as Realism and Neo-realism, Liberalism and Neo-liberalism, Race and Eurocentricism, The English School, Constructivism, Cosmopolitanism, Marxism and Critical Theory, Feminism, and Poststructuralism.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 11 | 1 | 10 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Private study hours | 180 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Students are required to do a considerable amount of reading, be able to respond in an appropriate manner to the material and engage in class discussions.
Assessment is an integral part of the module’s learning outcomes and facilitates the participant’s development of core skills such as problem solving, information management, research and analytical skills. There will be a 750 word formative essay (Non Assessed)Student in preperation for the 3000 word essay submission. Tutors will also monitor student progression informally through seminars by looking at individual student engagement and understanding.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | 1 x 3,000 End of Term essay | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 29/04/2024
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team