Diplomacy and International Relations induction information

About your programme

Module information

You’ll complete your course one block or ‘semester’ at a time. In each semester you’ll study modules. Some are core modules you have to take – others you’ll be able to choose between when you arrive, personalising the course to your interests.

In your first semester you will study the following modules:

• History, theory, and practice of diplomacy  Core

History, theory, and practice of diplomacy (Core)

Diplomacy is central to foreign policy. It is the way in which the representatives of states interact with one another. This module provides an outline of how diplomacy emerged. It shows how diplomacy can be traced back to the very earliest phases of human development, long before the emergence of modern states as we know them. It then outlines the development of diplomatic practice through the Medieval world, before looking at how diplomacy evolved in the modern era.

• Internal relations theory Core

Internal relations theory (Core)

International relations theory is crucial to the way we understand global politics and the international system. While international relations traditionally refers to relationships between states within an international system this module seeks to explore different theoretical understandings of international order at the level of the international system, states, and the individual. The module examines some of the most significant theories of international relations and seeks to apply these in real world contexts, asking in particular whether relations between states are driven by realism or idealism or for other purposes.

• Human rights and migration  Core

Human rights and migration (Core)

Justice systems at a national, international, and transnational level exist to mediate rights for individuals and groups. In an age of migration, border control, trafficking, and governance of migration are emerging themes in criminology. What are the limitations of the sovereign state? What are the limitations of international legal instruments to protect human rights? How can security be achieved for all? Building on these questions, students will critically examine the governance of migration and how European states deal with problems of law, order, and inclusion. The study of human rights institutions, processes, and practices will enable students to address current dilemmas associated with migration such as state sovereignty, security, inclusion, inequality, and citizenship.

Further information about the structure of your course can be found within the programme specification document.