Course summary

The post-Cold War promise of a new ‘World Order’ was a defining historical moment. But how have international relations actually progressed in the years since? In this degree, you’ll explore this idea in extensive and illuminating detail. This degree will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of contemporary international relations. By taking this course you will have the opportunity to study a range of international issues, and to investigate whether international relations in the post-Cold War period have been founded upon a Western model of 'World Order'. The course will introduce you to differing concepts of order in the post-Cold War world. It will enable you to think critically about the nature of international relations: about the extent to which Western interests, institutions and culture dominate the world system and the challenges and responses generated by that dominance. The course focuses on both theoretical and empirical approaches to this subject. You will complete one core module which will critically examine the means by which the West maintains its concept of 'Order' and non-Western responses to it. You can then choose three option modules, which, along with your dissertation, allow you to specialise in areas that interest you or complement your professional goals. As well as equipping you with a detailed understanding of contemporary international relations this degree will develop your ability to think both analytically and critically and to produce reasoned arguments encompassing your increased knowledge and understanding of the issues. It will also develop your practical transferable skills, including the ability to conduct independent research, verbal and written communication, and presenting and planning.