International Relations Theory

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

170 hours

Entry into the Master of International Relations (MIR)

Politics and International Studies at Undergraduate level

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

This subject provides an advanced introduction to the major theories of International Relations and their influence on international affairs. Students will be introduced to mainstream approaches like realism / neo-realism, liberal internationalism / neoliberal institutionalism, and critical and normative approaches to international theory. The subject will also explore how different theories of International Relations have shaped contemporary debates and practices in international affairs, including the role of power and morality, the role of international institutions, and practices of inclusion and exclusion.

On completion of this subject students should:

• demonstrate a familiarity with the major theoretical perspectives in world politics;
• understand the major points of disagreement between these perspectives;
• be able to relate the theoretical debates about world politics to practical problems and issues.

1. Two x 1000 word briefing essays (20% each) due during the semester;
2. A 3000 word essay (60%) due during the examination period.

Hurdle Requirement: Students are required to attend a minimum of 75% of classes in order to qualify to have their written work assessed. Regular participation in class is required.

Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per working day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

Readings will be available from LMS.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students should:

• develop persuasive arguments on a given topic;
• apply research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;
• be able to communicate oral and written arguments and ideas effectively;
• develop cross-cultural understanding.

This subject is a compulsory component of the Master of International Relations. It is also compulsory in the following courses, for those students who have not completed 166-401: Master of International Politics 200-point program(teach-out), Honours (International studies), Postgraduate Certificate in Arts (International Politics), Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (International Politics).