Theories In International Relations
- Social Sciences
- 300 level
- 3 credit units
- 156 pages
- 20 units
This course provides a general introduction to the major theories of international relations. It explores the historical context of these theories and their contributions to understanding international relations. The course examines key concepts such as war and peace, states and nations, and various theoretical traditions, including mainstream and alternative accounts. Students will develop analytical skills and engage in informed discussions about complex political questions.
About this course
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Study hours
- 200 hours
- Maths
- None
- Content
- Theoretical, case study
- Practical work
- No
- Assignments
- Tutor Marked Assignments
- Final Examination
What you'll read
The real module and unit structure of INR386, taken from the course material NOUN publishes.
One paragraph, so you can see how it reads
INR386 · UNIT 1 WHAT IS INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS?
This is a theory course but you will get the best out of it if you cultivate the habit of relating it to political issues in domestic and international arenas.
What you should be able to do
- Understand major theories of international relations
- Analyze foreign policy decisions
- Evaluate the role of power in international politics
- Assess the impact of international organizations
- Comprehend the causes and consequences of war
What it prepares you for
- Diplomat
- Policy Analyst
- Intelligence Officer
- International Relations Specialist
- Political Risk Analyst
- Government
- International Organizations
- Non-Governmental Organizations
- Consulting
- Academia
Where it gets hard
The units students slow down on, and what makes each one heavy.
- Module 3: Basic Theories in International Relations
Unit 3: Marxism, Neo Marxism, Feminism, the English School
Requires understanding of complex philosophical underpinnings and historical context.
- Module 5: War and Politics in the International System
Unit 3: The Changing Nature of War
Involves grasping intricate strategic concepts and historical applications.
A suggested way through it
13 weeks, about 65 hours in total. Yours will differ.
- Week 1Module 1: The Study of International Relations
Unit 1: What is International Relations? · 5 hours
Define international relations. Differentiate between international politics and international relations.
- Week 2Module 1: The Study of International Relations
Unit 2: Scope and purpose of international relations · 5 hours
State the scope of international relations. Explain the purpose of international relations.
- Week 3Module 1: The Study of International Relations
Unit 3: Preconditions for International Relations · 5 hours
Describe the preconditions of international relations. Narrate the changing patterns of international relations.
- Week 4Module 1: The Study of International Relations
Unit 4: Is International Relations a discipline? · 5 hours
State categorically whether international relations is a discipline or not. Quote authors in support of their arguments.
- Week 5Module 2: Approaches to the Study of International Relations
Unit 1: Approaches to the Study of International Relations · 5 hours
Elucidate on the historical approach to the study of international relations.. Criticize on the descriptive approach to the study of international relations..
- Week 6Module 2: Approaches to the Study of International Relations
Unit 2: The Analytical Approach · 5 hours
Evaluate the analytical approach to the study of international relations.
- Week 7Module 2: Approaches to the Study of International Relations
Unit 3: The Normative Approach · 5 hours
Provide relevant examples of the normative approach to the study of international relations.. Mentions authorities in the field of normative approach to the study..
- Week 8Module 2: Approaches to the Study of International Relations
Unit 4: The Scientific Approach · 5 hours
Provide relevant examples of how scientific approach to the study of international relations is carried out.. State categorically the elements of Scientific Research in International Relations.
- Week 9Module 3: Basic Theories in International Relations
Unit 1: Basic Theories and Concepts in International Relations · 5 hours
Explain the concept of theories in international relations.. Situate theory in the study of international relations..
- Week 10Module 3: Basic Theories in International Relations
Unit 2: Liberalism, Neo-Liberalism, Realism, Neo Realism Theories · 5 hours
Discuss articulately the theories of Liberalism, neo liberalism and the democratic peace theory.. Explain what they understand by Realism and neo realism..
- Week 11Module 3: Basic Theories in International Relations
Unit 3: Marxism, Neo Marxism, Feminism, the English School · 5 hours
Define Marxism. Explain the Marxist core arguments. Differentiate between Marxism and neo Marxism. Define Feminism and state its core arguments. Discuss the power theory and the Balance of Power theory.
- Week 12Module 3: Basic Theories in International Relations
Unit 4: System, Game, Integration and Humanitarian Theories · 5 hours
Identify the basic theories in international relations. Discuss exhaustively the Game theory. Evaluate the Humanitarian theory.
- Week 13Module 4: Foreign Policy Analysis
Unit 1: Analyzing Foreign Policy · 5 hours
Define foreign policy analysis. State the elements of foreign policy. Evaluate the techniques or the instruments of policy.
Preparing for the exam
- Review key concepts from each module
- Create flashcards for important terms and theories
- Practice essay questions on major topics
- Analyze case studies of international events
- Participate in online forums and discussions
- Focus on understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each theory
- Pay close attention to the historical context of each theory
- Review all Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs) and feedback
- Create concept maps linking different theories and concepts
- Allocate sufficient time for revision and practice questions
- Prioritize understanding over memorization
- Focus on application of theories to real-world events
- Practice time management during mock exams
- Identify and address any weak areas in your understanding
- Seek clarification from your tutor on any challenging topics
- Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam
- Read all questions carefully before answering
- Manage your time effectively during the exam
- Answer all required questions to the best of your ability
- Review your answers before submitting the exam
- Stay calm and focused during the exam
Questions students ask about this course
What is INR386 about?
This course provides a general introduction to the major theories of international relations. It explores the historical context of these theories and their contributions to understanding international relations. The course examines key concepts such as war and peace, states and nations, and various theoretical traditions, including mainstream and alternative accounts. Students will develop analytical skills and engage in informed discussions about complex political questions.
How many units does INR386 have?
INR386, Theories In International Relations, has 20 units across 5 modules, over 156 pages of course material. You can read it one unit at a time.
How many credit units is INR386?
INR386 carries 3 credit units, at 300 level in Social Sciences.
Is INR386 hard?
INR386 is rated intermediate level, with no mathematical content. It is mostly theoretical and case study work.
How long does INR386 take to study?
About 200 hours of study, spread across its 20 units.
How is INR386 assessed?
INR386 is assessed by Assignments, Tutor Marked Assignments and Final Examination.
What can I do with INR386?
Diplomat, Policy Analyst, Intelligence Officer, International Relations Specialist and Political Risk Analyst.