International Relations

Competing and conflicting national interests remain a core concern of scholars of international relations and diplomacy, despite the profound changes in the international system as a result of the end of the Cold War in the 1990s.

In the International Relations Learning Circle, postgraduate students and professors explore the theory and practice of international relations – the relations between nations – and the roles played by both state and non-state players in that process.

Furthermore, academic field study during port calls provides an invaluable learning opportunity for students to reflect outside the classroom, in a context that resonates long after their voyage concludes.

Subjects

• Theory of International Relations (required - all students)
• International Political Economy
• Security Politics in the New Europe
• Colonization and Decolonization in North Africa and the Middle East
• Evolution of the International System
• Diplomatic History Since the Congress of Vienna

Themes

The following themes play a prominent role in the subjects offered:

• Power, the state and other actors in the international system
• Determinism and voluntarism in international relations
• Globalization and democratization
• Particularism versus universalism

Learning Outcomes

The core learning outcomes for this learning circle are to enhance students’ ability to:

• Understand the history and practice of international relations
• Understand international relations theory
• Develop critical perspectives with regard to state-centered historiography and narratives
• Successfully apply learned theories in simulations
• Develop self-awareness and responsibility as world citizens
• Develop a systemic approach to world politics

Fields of Study commonly associated with the International Relations Learning Circle

• Conflict Studies
• History
• Intercultural Studies
• International Law and Diplomacy
• International Studies
• Peace Studies
• Political Science
• War Studies