Entry requirements for Exchange students: Introduction to International Relations (or equivalent course at another university).
Admission requirements
This course is open to all students enrolled in the IRO specialization of the BSc Political Science and to exchange students with pre-approval.
Description
This course explores various theoretical approaches to international relations with a focus on the nature of the international system and the dynamics and evolution of international cooperation and global governance. It builds upon the first-year Introduction to International Relations, complements other mid-level thematic courses, and provides a foundation for more advanced study of international relations.
Course objectives
The course has three specific goals: to develop students’ abilities to interpret and critique classic and contemporary scholarship on international relations; to deepen students’ understanding of the nature of the international system and the dynamics of international cooperation and global governance in a changing world; and to prepare students for more advanced courses and independent (thesis) research in international relations.
Mode of instruction
The principal mode of instruction is lectures, supplemented by optional small group discussions.
Assessment method
The final grade will be based on a single exam with one re-sit opportunity composed of multiple-choice questions (50%) and open questions (50%).
Reading list
Readings will be journal articles and book chapters available electronically via the university library.
Registration
See 'Practical Information'
Timetable
See 'MyTimetable'
Contact
Prof. Daniel Thomas: d.c.thomas@fsw.leidenuniv.nl. Office hours will be announced.