2024/25
2.1
1 year (Full Time)
30 (Full Time)
Current information: Borders have become a key site and central concern of global security practices and theory, from the Mexican-United States border to the Mediterranean ports of the EU. The many facets of borders are introduced and analysed in this programme: they are understood as containers of identity, sites of power, and points of weakness where the mobility of people (e.g. terrorists, migrants) and things (e.g. drugs, weapons) can disrupt prevailing forms of security. This programme aims to help students navigate this complex terrain by providing a firm grounding in critical border studies. At the core of this programme is the chance for students to apply their academic insights within a work-based environment with borders/security professionals through the Borders Internship module.
Please Note: due to external international funding deadlines and the limited availability of internships, the closing date for International student applications to this programme is 31st January 2024 at 4pm GMT; for EU and UK students the closing date for applications is 29th March 2024 at 4pm GMT. Applications received after these closing dates will be regarded as LATE and will be considered only if vacancies exist when all applications received by these closing dates have been processed.
A specialised MA not offered anywhere else in the UK or Ireland. A dedicated focus on global security as it operates on borders. An intense semester-long Borders Internship in key political organizations The chance to shape political policy
Global Security and Borders highlights
Industry LinksThe opportunity to feed into contemporary policy debates both directly with professionals through the Internship as well as debating with staff who advise governments and security sector actors.
This programme has the particular benefit of an Internship module where students will learn to manage their time and acquire transferrable skills in a work-based environment.
Internationally Renowned Experts
Research-led teaching by world leading experts who have been awarded grants by UK and EU funding bodies to undertake research on the interaction of borders and security.
Student Experience
A unique opportunity, not offered anywhere else in the UK or Ireland, to study the crucial interaction of global security practices and borders as sites of power, identity and politics.
The chance to apply theoretical insights in the real world through the Borders Internship module where you will also learn key transferrable employability skills.
The School's active research environment, including internationally renowned guest speakers, staff seminars and reading groups.
Queen’s is ranked in the top 170 in the world for graduate prospects (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022).
16% of the Queen’s student population are international students (Queen’s Planning Office, 2023).
Queen’s ranked 18 in the world for international outlook (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023).
Queen’s is ranked in the top 75 universities in Europe for Teaching Excellence (Times Higher Education, 2019).
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Course content
Course Structure
A unique course, not offered anywhere else in the UK or Ireland, through which you’ll critically examine how pressing security issues are increasingly being felt at border sites around the world.
In the first semester, you’ll explore how issues such as migration, security, human rights, technology and sovereignty converge at key border sites. The curriculum responds to current transformations in global politics, and addresses entrenched problems through contemporary case studies.
In the second semester, you will engage with these issues first-hand on an intense semester-long Borders Internship. Students will spend 10 weeks in a government department or local organization crafting policies that address borders, security and conflict. You will produce a substantial Briefing Paper for your organization, and present this work to wider audiences. During the summer, students will work exclusively on their independent MA dissertation.
Course Details
The programme has three different components: Core modules, Elective modules, and an MA dissertation.
In addition to the 3 compulsory modules + the dissertation, students also have the opportunity to take 2 elective modules from the wider offering in HAPP that will enhance and strengthen the core provision. Given the broad nature of security and borders, the elective modules are drawn from some of our other MA programmes. Here, students will get the chance to discuss and debate relevant issues with students with diverse intellectual interests. The elective modules available on this programme change each year, but may include some of the following:
AUTUMN
Students are required to take TWO compulsory modules:
HAP7001 – Approaches and Debates in Research Design
This module aims to introduce key approaches to research design, while also introducing some of the contemporary debates in research in the social sciences and humanities.
PAI7037 Global Borders and Security
The module will examine the key theoretical approaches, debates and issues that constitute Border Studies, and place these in a wider context of global security.
Plus ONE optional module from choices such as:
PAI7022 – The Politics of the Republic of Ireland
This module explores and analyses the political development of the Irish Free State/Republic of Ireland in historical context.
PAI7051 Contemporary Security
The module will examine the key theoretical approaches and practical issues and debates that have defined the evolution of Security Studies.
PAI7099 The UK and Europe
This module offers students the opportunity to address core issues in Politics via a focus on the UK’s relationship with Europe in a time of flux.
PAI7103 – Global Development
This module will cover cutting-edge debates on the contemporary form and function of the policies, theories, and practices that comprise the field of Global Development.
SPRING
Students are required to take the following module:
PAI7097 Borders Internship
This new Module will offer students the opportunity to undertake a work placement for a total of 2 days per week (including half days as necessary) for 12 weeks (24 days total) in a host organisation.
Plus ONE module from choice such as:
PAI7007 Global Terrorism
This module introduces students to the range of important issues relating to the phenomenon of global terrorism and responses in terms of the global war on terrorism.
PAI7021 The Politics and Institutions of Northern Ireland
The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement put an end to armed conflict in Northern Ireland and set up institutions designed to govern a society and polity divided along unionist and nationalist lines.
PAI7027 Conflict Intervention
The module will evaluate the changing nature of intervention, from unilateral forceful intervention to multi-lateral intervention, to humanitarian intervention, and third party mediation.
PAI7030 Global Political Economy
This module provides a themed examination of the changing politics of the world economy, through the lens of the sub/inter-discipline, known as International Political Economy.
PAI7032 Gender and Politics
This module analyses the link between gender, politics and democracy in a comparative context.
PAI7050 - Ethnic Conflict and Consensus: the power of institutions
This module examines concepts of ethnicity, national identity, multiculturalism as they relate to contemporary conflict.
PAI7059 – Freedom and Modernity
The modern era is distinguished by the emergence of divergent interpretations of the nature of freedom, individual, social, and political. This course is devoted to exploring the nature of these different conceptions and the theories of freedom associated with them. Benjamin Constant famously contrasted the liberties of the ancients, i.e. collective political freedoms, with the liberties of the moderns, i.e. individual freedoms.
PHL7057 Social Injustice
This module examines the problem of social injustice in contemporary, plural societies.
PAI7102 Global Ireland
The module would explore Ireland’s international experience, from the past to present, with a focus on three key relationships: that with Britain, with America and with Europe.
SUMMER
Students complete research on:
PAI9099 – Dissertation
The research and writing of a 15,000-word dissertation on any chosen aspect of Politics or International Studies. Submission date - early to mid-September.
People teaching you
Senior LecturerHAPP
Dr Heather Johnson’s research focuses on irregular migration and asylum seekers, border security, and the practices of resistance, solidarity and protest of non-citizens. She is interested in developing new understandings of mobility and non-citizenship, and particularly in new methods for engaging with these issues.
Email: h.johnson@qub.ac.uk
Natural and Built Environment
A cultural and political geographer with particular interest in critical perspectives on security, processes of border making, geographies of embodiment, critical cultural analysis and feminist and queer theory. Research examines the use of border making technologies in the Israeli control over the occupied Palestinian territory. Dr Amir also researches political activism and the securitization of public spaces. Prior research projects included analysis of modes of embodiment and the political and social implications of the new reproductive technologies.
Email: m.amir@qub.ac.uk
HAPP
Cathal McCall is Professor of European Politics and Borders. He has published widely on the theme of European Union cross-border cooperation and conflict transformation. Currently, he has a specific interest in bordering, debordering and re-bordering on the island of Ireland.
Email: c.mccall@qub.ac.uk
HAPP
Professor David Phinnemore’s research interests are focused on European integration and cover in particular processes of EU treaty reform and their impact on the EU, the political dynamics underpinning EU enlargement and the EU’s relations with European non-member states.
Email: d.phinnemore@qub.ac.uk
HAPP
Prof Lisle’s research engages with a number of contemporary debates in International Relations, International Political Sociology and beyond, most notably around issues of difference, mobility, security, travel, visuality, governmentality, biopolitics, materiality, technology, practice and power. My earlier work explores the relevance of cultural and visual artifacts (e.g. contemporary travel writing, museum exhibits, photographs, art, war films) to world politics, and argues that the cultural realm tells as much about International Relations as the official documents usually privileged in this context.
Email: d.lisle@qub.ac.uk
SSESW
Professor of Political Sociology at Queen’s University Belfast and a Senior Fellow of the UK in a Changing Europe thinktank, where she leads a major ESRC-funded project on the topic of the future and status of Northern Ireland after Brexit. She is an Eisenhower Fellow (2019) and a Fellow in the Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice at Queen's University.
Professor Hayward is an internationally recognised expert on Brexit and Northern Ireland/Ireland, particularly with respect to the Irish border. She was appointed to the technical expert panel of the UK government’s Alternative Arrangements Advisory Group on Brexit (2019) and has given written and oral evidence before several parliamentary committees in the UK, Ireland and EU.
Email: k.hayward@qub.ac.uk
Teaching Times
Teaching takes place at a variety of times from 9-8pm Monday – Friday.Learning and Teaching
In general, there is an average of six hours contact teaching hours per week for the first semester. In the second semester, as well as two hours contact on an Elective module, the Borders Internship module will involve three days of a work-based placement per week for 10 weeks, as well as dedicated supervision with a member of academic staff.
Students should expect to spend 10-12 hours of independent study for every two hours in seminars and lectures, spread across the course of the semester. However, the second semester Borders Internship involves a more complex mix of work-based learning and supervision.
Cognitive Skills
Develop advanced analytical, reasoning, literacy and communication skills.
Solve problems, process and prioritize a wide variety of information, and express sophisticated arguments and positions in oral and written form.
Enhance their knowledge of relevant methodological and theoretical approaches to key issue areas relating to global security and borders.
Identify and articulate advanced level arguments relating to global security and borders in oral and written form.Knowledge and Understanding
• engage in relational thinking by acknowledging how pressing issues of global security are revealed most clearly in the operation of borders, and how borders expose the contingency of state sovereignty and the international system
• demonstrate an advanced awareness and understanding of the foundations of Critical Security Studies and Border Studies within International Relations;
• understand how Critical Security Studies and Border Studies relate to different theoretical approaches to global security and borders within International Relations; acknowledge the diversity of critical approaches and identify key tensions between them;
• recognise the interdisciplinary influences on Critical Security Studies and Border Studies and acknowledge how these inform its development;
• understand how critical theories of global security and borders translate into different practices at border sites, even when those sites are radically dispersed;
• apply contemporary academic debates about global security and borders to contemporary bordering practices;
• critically engage in debates on key developments in the politics of global security and borders;
• reflect upon the ethical and political implications and developments in global security and borders;
• engage in depth with a wide range of key issues in a theoretically informed way;
• pursue independent, creative and critical thinking through both written work and group debate and discussionsSubject Specific Skills
• understand of the key and evolving debates in Critical Security Studies and Border Studies
• critically engage with arguments relating to global security and borders, including contemporary bordering practices, the ethical and political implications of efforts to increase the security of borders; and moments where border security fails.Transferable Skills
Acquire and develop advanced subject-specific skills, as well as organizational, professional and career development skills that will be beneficial in further research, education and employment.
One of the MA's core modules – the double-weighted PAI7097 Borders Internship – is key to providing transferable skills relating to employment. It has two main components:
• Students will undertake a dedicated 10 week site-specific Borders Internship at a non-HE institution for 3 days a week for 10 weeks. This will be supported by a preparatory workshop. The host institutions are both governmental and non-governmental (3rd sector), and all are directly engaged in the work of global security and borders. The confirmed host institutions for the borders internship will change every year, depending on need, availability and student numbers. These will normally be finalised by September before the students begin the programme. Host institutions we routinely work with include:
- Dept. of Foreign Affairs, Ireland
- The Executive Office, Stormont (Good Relations)
- Cyber Crime Centre, PSNI.
- The Equality Commission
- UK Visas & Immigration
- Irish Central Border Area Network
- Pivotal
- Cooperation Ireland
To ensure that the learning outcomes on the programme are met, the Borders Internship module will provide the following additional assurances:
• A fair and transparent allocation of internships to students involving the student's preferences, student ranking by entrance grades and achievement, and an interview with relevant staff .
• A comprehensive model of supervision and monitoring (see next column) including regular one-on-one meetings with an academic supervisor, peer group mentoring and dedicated onsite supervision by a host mentor
• A dedicated effort, by the course convenor, to ensure that all visas for Tier 4 students undertaking internships in the Republic of Ireland are acquired in advance
• A concentrated effort by the course convenor and host mentor to ensure that any required security clearances are undertaken in advance of the internship starting
• A comprehensive risk policy to ensure that alternative arrangements can be made if an internship does not work out, runs into difficulty or breaks down.
Assessment
Each module has its own assessment structure. At Postgraduate level, these are almost all continuous assessment and can include the following:
- • Essays
• Learning Journals
• Literature Reviews
• Policy Reviews
• Blogs
• Briefing Papers
• Book Reviews
• Seminar Presentations - The assessment breakdown for the CORE modules on this programme is as follows:
HAP7001 Approaches to Research Design: 2 Portfolio Entries + Research Design
PAI7037 Global Security and Borders: 1 Blog Portfolio + 1 Essay
PAI7097 Borders Internship: 1 Briefing Paper + 1 Learning Log
PAI9099 Dissertation: 1 15,000 word dissertation
Modules
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2023/24). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
- Year 1
Core Modules
Borders Internship (40 credits)Borders Internship
Overview
This new Module will offer students the opportunity to undertake a work placement for a total of 2 days per week (including half days as necessary) for 12 weeks (24 days total) in a host organisation. Assessment will be via a learning log, policy brief and academic paper, thus allowing students to use their workplace project more laterally in the achievement of Module requirements.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will have significantly developed their administrative knowledge and capacity; acquired a clear understanding of the work, organisation and operation of the host institution; produced a body of work that is both academically sound and, ideally, of practical utility for the host institution; and developed and acquired a range of skills including working within a team setting and complying with the norms and ethical standards of a professional working environment. Students will also have learned to locate their applied experience with academic interests and concerns.
Skills
This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include:
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge
• Analytical Thinking
• Critical & Independent Thinking
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills
• Teamwork
• Diversity
• Self-Reflexivity
• Time Management
Technical and practical skills
• Information Technology
• Regulations and standards
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice
• Clear organisation of information
• Organisation and communication
• Enterprising thinkingCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
40
Module Code
PAI7097
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Dissertation (60 credits)Dissertation
Overview
The research and writing of a 15,000-word dissertation on any chosen aspect of Politics or International Studies. Submission date 15th September.
Learning Outcomes
To encourage students to engage in independent and original research.
Skills
Students are allocated an individual supervisor, with whom they work closely throughout the research, drafting and writing of their dissertation. The skills required for ongoing research, organisation of a thesis and professional writing and presentation of a dissertation are all acquired, and monitored, through liaison with the supervisor.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
60
Module Code
PAI9099
Teaching Period
Summer
Duration
12 weeks
Global Security and Borders (20 credits)Global Security and Borders
Overview
The module will examine the key theoretical approaches, debates and issues that constitute Border Studies, and place these in a wider context of global security. Students will critically assess some of the main texts in Border Studies and analyse their relation to established theoretical traditions within International Relations and Security Studies. It will critically address mainstream accounts of sovereign borders and statehood by developing a much more comprehensive approach in which mobilities, flows, contradictions, circulations, re-directions and interruptions are understood to constitute contemporary borders. It will introduce students to the major and emerging theories of borders, contextualize those within prevailing security dynamics, and illustrate those studies with multiple examples from contemporary global borders. Some of the topics we will engage with are: sovereignty; bordering / debordering; regular and irregular migration; security technologies; the differences between freight and human traffic; data collection and circulation; visa regimes; citizenship; nationalism; mobility and travel; disruption and delay; interoperability; efficiency and risk management;
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module students will:
- Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of different theoretical engagements with border studies and security, and acknowledge the diversity of critical approaches.
- Understand how theories of borders, sovereignty and security translate into different practices at border sites, even when those sites are radically dispersed
- Be able to apply critical concepts about borders, security and mobility to contemporary bordering practices.
- Critically engage in debates on key developments in the politics of borders and security studies.
- Be able to reflect upon the ethical and political implications and developments in borders studies and security.
- Be able to engage in depth with a wide range of key issues in a theoretically informed way.
- Pursue independent, creative and critical thinking through both written work and group discussions.Skills
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
• Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
• Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way
• Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative waysCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7037
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
APPROACHES TO RESEARCH DESIGN (20 credits)APPROACHES TO RESEARCH DESIGN
Overview
This module aims to introduce key approaches to research design, while also introducing some of the contemporary debates in research in the social sciences and humanities. It will also provide students with an introduction to some of the key practical research skills they will find of use when designing and conducting their academic research. These skills are also those which students will find necessary as they continue their academic and research career.
Students will have a high degree of choice across workshops, enabling them to tailor the module content to their pathway of student and personal research goals. The workshops will address five key areas: Fundamentals of Research; Debates; Philosophy of Science/Epistemology; Qualitative Methods; and Quantitative Methods.
The broad aims of the module are to:
• Introduce students to the diversity of research approaches and debates;
• Heighten awareness of methodological issues facing researchers in the social sciences and humanities;
• Develop an awareness of interdisciplinarity and its potentials and challenges in research;
• Encourage students to develop their research skills through the selective use of this reading guide and their own search for appropriate literature on research design topics that are of interest to them.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will have:
• obtained a clear understanding of some central issues and methodological debates that are basic to social science and humanities research;
• been introduced to interdisciplinarity in research, and developed an understanding of how it relates to their own work;
• communicated this understanding in an analytically rigorous manner through assessed written work;
• demonstrated the kind of methodological awareness that will allow them to pursue their own research or coursework in an analytically rigorous and self-critical manner.
• been equipped with the intellectual capacity to defend a particular approach to their own research;
• started to make preparations for a research dissertation.Skills
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
• Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
Technical and practical skills
• Information Technology: demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way
• Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative waysCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
HAP7001
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Optional Modules
The Politics and Institutions of Northern Ireland (20 credits)The Politics and Institutions of Northern Ireland
Overview
The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement put an end to armed conflict in Northern Ireland and set up institutions designed to govern a society and polity divided along unionist and nationalist lines. As the experience of Northern Ireland shows, governing in such a context is not easy. Stability and cross-community agreement can be hard to reach, which has occasionally led to the suspension of Northern Ireland’s institutions. Yet these institutions have endured despite repeated crises and are heralded by some as examples of post-conflict governance.
The module explores contemporary developments in Northern Irish politics and discusses institutional design and politics in a changing Northern Ireland. It addresses topics such as the development of Northern Ireland’s consociational model of government, how institutions like the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive perform their functions, how parties and identity shape politics and voting behaviour, North-South relations after Brexit, and Northern Ireland’s place in Europe.Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this module, students
- Should be able to understand how Northern Ireland institutions work and how they compare to other devolved institutions
- Should demonstrate a critical understanding of the debates about consociationalism and the role it plays in the stability of Northern Ireland’s institutions and of its community divisions
- Should understand party competition and voting in Northern Ireland
- Should demonstrate an ability to write well, conciselySkills
This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include:
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
• Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
• Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
Technical and practical skills
• Information Technology: demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way
• Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative waysCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7021
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Social Injustice (20 credits)Social Injustice
Overview
This module examines the problem of social injustice in contemporary, plural societies. The first half of the module explores some of the main philosophical assessments of social injustice. Students will first be introduced to key critiques of liberal theory as a response to the structural disadvantages associated with difference (including race, gender, sexual-orientation, religion, and class, among others). Here, liberal policy approaches to difference (including toleration, uniform treatment, and non-discrimination), will be critiqued alongside liberal modes of justification for their failure to deal appropriately with the disadvantages suffered by affected groups.
The second half of the module discusses the practical implications of both social injustice and its potential solutions. Precise topics vary year-on-year, but may include discussion of some of the following questions: Is unfettered freedom of speech a necessary feature of or a hindrance in the fight for social equality? What role does historical injustice play in the ongoing oppression of marginalised groups? Is the recognition of difference the appropriate response to cultural domination? How has social media changed the shape of social justice movements? Is civil disobedience a legitimate response to injustice, and must it always be ‘civil’ in nature?Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module students:
• Should demonstrate a critical understanding of key debates about social injustice.
• Should be able to explain some of the central critiques of liberal theory as a way of dealing with structural oppression.
• Should be familiar with debates surrounding the role of historical injustice as it pertains to ongoing marginalisation.
• Should have a critical understanding of the changing nature of social justice movements.Skills
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner.
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments.
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field.
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing.
• Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning.
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment.
• Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development.
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance.
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines.
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information.
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way.
• Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative ways.Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PHL7057
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Global Development (20 credits)Global Development
Overview
This module provides a critical examination of the policies, theories, politics, and practices that comprise the field of international or ‘Global’ Development. This module is not only concerned with mainstream policies and practices, but also with the processes of resistance that result from the pursuit of ‘Development’ projects across diverse polities and geographical contexts. Interdisciplinary in nature, this module provides a comprehensive overview of the field. It engages with literatures and debates across International Political Economy, Human Geography, Business Management, International Relations, and Development Studies.
Students will examine the colonial origins of the development regime, the pursuit of "development" alongside US power and hegemony in the mid-20th century, the role of "modernisation" discourses and "state-led" forms of development, development as a vehicle towards neoliberal capital accumulation, radical and post-modernist understandings on the means and ends of development, the rise of "new" actors and discourses such as Chinese and Indian "South-South Cooperation", the growing privatization of global development, and the ecological limits to the pursuit of development alongside "post-growth" alternatives.
This module will be particularly of interest for those seeking work in international development, international organisations, or non-governmental sectors.Learning Outcomes
* Students will possess an advanced understanding of the current state of international development both as a field of practice and area of academic debate and inquiry. * Students will be able to apply and interrogate a range of concepts from across International Political Economy, International Relations and Human Geography.
* Students will understand not only heterodox critiques of mainstream international development practices and discourses, but they will also receive balanced insights into the practical challenges and bottlenecks faced by practitioners in the field.Skills
This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include: Intellectual skills * Managing & Prioritising Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner * Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments * Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field Professional and career development skills * Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing * Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance Technical and practical skills * Information Technology: demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT Organisational skills * Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines * Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information * Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear argument; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way * Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative ways
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7103
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
The Politics of the Republic of Ireland (20 credits)The Politics of the Republic of Ireland
Overview
This module explores and analyses the political development of the Irish Free State/Republic of Ireland in historical context. It combines an historical and thematic approach to provide students with an understanding of the politics of the Irish Free State, later the Republic. It introduces students to key debates on the Irish Revolution and its background, on Irish historical revisionism, on the foundations of statehood, and the institutions and political culture of the new state. Particular themes include partition , the pursuit of stability and order, negotiations of identity, problems of modernisation, Ireland’s shifting place in European and world politics, changing attitudes towards partition and ‘the Troubles’, the impact of social change on self-representation in a post-Tiger context.
Learning Outcomes
To enrich understanding of key debates and themes in modern Irish politics.
Skills
To enrich understanding of key debates and themes in modern Irish politics.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7022
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Global Ireland (20 credits)Global Ireland
Overview
The module explores Ireland’s international experience, from the past to present, with a focus on three key relationships: that with Britain, with North America and with Europe. Through multi-method research, it explores common themes of empire, colonialism, emigration, diaspora identities, economic development, and culture. It examines the intersection of these themes at key moments in Ireland’s recent past such as the 1990s, when the Celtic Tiger economy, peace process, and global popularity of U2 and Riverdance all demonstrated the importance of the Irish diaspora. It also involves comparative examination of different diaspora experiences: how the Northern Ireland conflict affected the Irish in Britain; how Irish America contributed to that conflict, but also its resolution; and how the experience of female or Protestant migrants from Ireland had been markedly different from that of male and Catholic migrants respectively. The course looks at how Irish foreign policy continues to be shaped by its colonial past, particularly its role in the UN and peace-keeping operations. However, it questions the integrity of Ireland’s claimed neutrality, and considers how the Ukraine conflict fundamentally challenges its stance. The course looks particularly at the shock of Brexit, the ongoing challenges that it creates for both parts of Ireland, but also the possibilities which it creates for their reunification. Similarly, it reflects on how Brexit is reshaping Irish approaches to a changing EU order. In addition, the course reflects on the implications of globalisation and the role of the “New Irish” and other identities in Ireland that are now reshaping its international image. It concludes by considering the challenges of contemporary geopolitics, including climate change cyber security, the Covid pandemic, , and how Joe Biden’s election might be considered the last hurrah for Irish America, whilst a Chinese century unfolds.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will:
• demonstrate an awareness and understanding of Ireland’s place in the changing international order, from its integration into the British Empire to its embrace of an EU future without the UK;
• appreciate the continued importance of the UK relationship, particularly with respect to Northern Ireland, but also how the EU and the US still provide balancing forces to this relationship;
• be able to compare and contrast the very different experiences of the Irish diaspora, particularly in Britain and North America, and how female and Protestant migrants from Ireland have also had markedly different experiences from that of male and Catholic migrants respectively;
• be able to critically examine different conceptions of “diaspora”, plus related notions of identity such as “hybridity” and “authenticity”;
• understand how Irish foreign policy is shaped by its colonial experience, but is also is idealised in its presentation, and is facing increased challenges;
• identify patterns in the spread of Irish culture, from the “exile” of its greatest writers to the Continent, to the success of its musicians, filmmakers and actors in Britain and the US;
• critically interrogate the global phenomenon of St Patrick’s Day as an economic and cultural “soft power” project, with effective branding by the Irish government and private companies helping it to shut down Fifth Avenue and light the Great Wall of China up in green;
• understand the contemporary challenges of globalisation for Ireland, with the need to integrate “New Irish” ethnic minorities, and continue its economic progress through the dual shocks of Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic;appreciate the ongoing political challenges that Brexit creates for both parts of Ireland, but also the possibilities which it creates for both their economic future and possible reunification;
• understand how international responses to issues like climate change and global tax evasion, and also the rising power of internet and social media-based companies, pose particular challenges for Ireland’s political future;
reflect on the future of global Ireland given power shifts both within and away from the US, political change and continued challenges for the EU, and the need for new international alliances.Skills
The module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include:
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Comparative Analysis: ability to understand commonalities and divergences across the cases and themes examined
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates across the various disciplinary fields examined
Professional and career development skills
• Interdisciplinarity and multi-method learning: ability to use a variety of intellectual sources, from political speeches to poetry, song lyrics and film criticism, in order to analyse the overlapping themes of the module
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
• Presentational and Advocacy Skills: ability to present your ideas and arguments before a group of peers and respond to questions in a convincing fashion
• Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognise different ways of learning
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures and cope with stress
Organizational skills
• Preparatory Skills: always being well prepared for seminars (e.g. completing required reading)
• Time Management: effective use of study time, meeting coursework deadlinesIndependent Research: making good use of the library and the materials availableCoursework
90%
Examination
0%
Practical
10%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7102
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
The Politics and Political Economy of Energy and Low Carbon Energy Transitions
Overview
This module will take as it’s starting the concept of ‘Carbon Literacy’, its definition, measurement and development. Students will study policy making, governance and institutional structures at International, national, regional and local levels through the selection of relevant case studies. They will gain an understanding of the spectrum of carbon literacy and the challenges of identifying knowledge and capacity building needs for stakeholders, policy and decision makers at all levels, from global to local and individual.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module each student should have gained knowledge of:
• The emergence of carbon literacy and its role in the creation of a low carbon society;
• The conceptual and interdisciplinary dimensions of carbon literacy as a communication and policy language and tool;
• The scientific and normative components of carbon literacy in theory and practice;
• The positive and negative dimensions of carbon literacy in relation to communication and policy relevance; and
• The relationship between carbon literacy and existing frameworks for understanding and devising policies for the green economy.Skills
The module provides students with opportunities to develop the following skills:
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: to identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; to manage such information in an independent manner;
• Analytical Thinking: to identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; to construct independent arguments;
• Critical & Independent Thinking: to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing;
• Diversity: to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment;
• Self-Reflexivity: to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development;
• Time Management: to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; to cope with stress; and to achieve a work / life balance.
Technical and practical skills
• Information Technology: to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT.
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: to demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines;
• Clear organisation of information: to show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information;
• Organisation and communication: to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; to show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way;
• Enterprising thinking: to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, display originality of thought and argument.Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7036
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Institutions and Politics of the European Union (20 credits)Institutions and Politics of the European Union
Overview
The module explores the structure and institutions of the European Union (EU) as well as selected theoretical approaches to the study of European integration. It examines in detail the nature and roles of the EU’s main institutions (i.e. Commission, European Parliament, Council, European Council, European Central Bank, and Court of Justice), and provides a critical assessment of selected EU policies and political challenges facing the EU. In doing so the module explores the decision- and policy-making dynamics within the EU as well as some of the most pressing themes in European governance.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will:
• have a detailed knowledge of the institutional structure of the European Union
• have an appreciation of the explanatory value of selected theoretical approaches to the study of European integration and EU decision- and policy-making
• be able to critically assess the essential characteristics of the EU’s institutional framework
• have a familiarity with the EU policy base and policy priorities
• be able to identify specific, timely and pressing contemporary issues of relevance to the politics of the European Union
• have detailed knowledge of a selection of salient policy areas
• be able to pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, employing analytical skills and critical/independent thinkingSkills
Intellectual skills
• Managing and Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical and Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate wayCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7052
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Freedom and modernity (20 credits)Freedom and modernity
Overview
The modern era is distinguished by the emergence of divergent interpretations of the nature of freedom, individual, social, and political. This course is devoted to exploring the nature of these different conceptions and the theories of freedom associated with them. Benjamin Constant famously contrasted the liberties of the ancients, i.e. collective political freedoms, with the liberties of the moderns, i.e. individual freedoms. Berlin’s canonical contrast between negative and positive liberty, while partly inspired by Constant, approaches the analysis of freedom in a different way, foregrounding the contrast between ‘freedom from’ and ‘freedom to’. Recent work on freedom, however, challenges these accounts by reviving an older, republican, conception of freedom as freedom from domination. Where libertarian theories typically consider the state to be the primary threat to freedom, the non-domination account understands the state to be a potential bulwark against domination by other social actors. In this way, its concerns overlap with those of the critical theorists who are similarly concerned with obstacles to freedom in social relations more generally, reflected in theories of alienation and disciplinary power. This course will combine analytical and genealogical approaches to the problem understating the complexity of freedom in the modern world. Topics will vary from year to year but may include: liberal and libertarian conceptions of individual freedom, the relation between individual and political freedom, populist and constitutionalist conceptions of collective freedom; freedom as non-domination and the problem of structural domination; dimensions and theories of autonomy: moral, social, and political; alienation and disciplinary power.
Learning Outcomes
1. Students will be familiar with the standard theoretical analyses of the nature of freedom, i.e. negative liberty, autonomy and non-domination. 2. Students will be familiar with the historical development of different currents of thought about freedom in the modern era. 3. Students will be familiar with debates about interpersonal and structural accounts of domination, alienation and oppression. 4. Students will be familiar with debates about the different dimensions of freedom: personal, social, and political and their relations to one another.
Skills
Intellectual skills * Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner. * Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments. * Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field. Professional and career development skills * Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing. * Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning. * Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development. * Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance. Organizational skills * Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines. * Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information. * Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way. * Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative ways.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7059
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Gender and Politics (20 credits)Gender and Politics
Overview
This module analyses the link between gender, politics and democracy in a comparative context. It begins by discussing approaches to research gender in social science, and specifically in political science. The fundamental concept of political representation is adopted as the theoretical prism through which patterns of gender presence and interest representation are explored. Numerical, or ‘descriptive’ representation is taken as a starting point, and develops into discussions on the role of parties, electoral systems, and gender quotas in addressing women’s political under-representation in a global context. The contribution of women’s movements, state feminism and trans-national agencies in fostering gender democracy is also discussed. The module incorporates insights from current research on the subject by well-known scholars and offers an opportunity to students to study the subject in detail and to participate in the activities of the Centre for Advancement of Women in Politics.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to;\n- Provide a multi-dimensional analysis of the connections between gender, politics and modern democratic practices;\n- Understand and evaluate a range of feminist research methods appropriate to the social sciences;\n- Have an understanding of normative thinking on gender and democracy;\n- Understand current analyses of political representation;\n- Offer a comparative analysis of gender balances in parliaments;\n- Address the utility of quota measures as a tool for redressing under-representation;\n- Have an understanding of the gendered nature of parliaments as institutional organisations; \n- Have the capacity to analyse the effectiveness of parliamentarians in addressing gender matters in a range of democracies;\n- Evaluate the importance of gender mainstreaming and state feminism as routes to raising gender concerns in contemporary political systems.
Skills
Communicate ideas to others in a clear and concise manner, in oral and written form.\nPursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, employing analytical skills and critical thinking.\nDiscuss issues that challenge dominant perspectives in an informed manner.\nEngage in small group activity.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7032
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
The UK and Europe (20 credits)The UK and Europe
Overview
This module offers students the opportunity to address core issues in Politics via a focus on the UK’s relationship with Europe in a time of flux. It is built around three broad themes: understanding, negotiating and delivering Brexit.
The first part of the module focuses on explaining the UK’s past relationship with Europe, it’s nature as an ‘awkward partner’ in European integration and the outcome of the 2016 Referendum (“understanding Brexit”). It introduces students to theories of Euroscepticism, ideas of British ‘exceptionalism’ and the study of elections, referendums and public opinion.
The second part of the module engages with the on-going Brexit negotiations, in terms of trade, citizens’ rights and borders. It introduces students to the politics of trade and negotiation dynamics. It considers and explain changes to both the UK and EU positions in the negotiations.
The third part of the module focuses on Brexit delivery - the administrative challenges of taking back control and the constitutional challenges of repatriating competences for central and devolved governments. It introduces students to studies of multi-level governance and devolution and theories of implementation, enforcement and good governance.Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module, the students:
- Should be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of the UK’s relationship with the EU
- Should understand debates about explanations of the EU referendum outcome and challenges for delivering Brexit
- Should be able to understand how different theories and approaches in political science can help make sense of the UK’s changing relationship with Europe
- Should have developed basic blog writing skills and basic policy brief writing skillsSkills
Skills
This module will assist in developing students’ skills in a number of important areas. These include:
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
• Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
• Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
Technical and practical skills
• Information Technology: demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way
• Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative waysCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7099
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Conflict Intervention (20 credits)Conflict Intervention
Overview
The module will evaluate the changing nature of intervention, from unilateral forceful intervention to multi-lateral intervention, to humanitarian intervention, and third party mediation. Focusing on state, intergovernmental and non-governmental actors’ interventions, it will look at various conflict intervention practices in all phases of conflict from conflict prevention to post-conflict peacebuilding.
Learning Outcomes
To acquire an overview, both historical and substantive, of various approaches to analysis of conflicts and of conflict transformation. The content will deal with different theories of conflict origins, conflict process, and conflict transformation, as well as examining the practices of different state and non-state actors after conflicts.
Skills
Emphasis will be placed on the development of analytic skills for identifying different types of conflict and alternative modes of intervention. Special attention will be given to questions of language, moral justification and power.
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7027
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Contemporary Security (20 credits)Contemporary Security
Overview
The module will examine the key theoretical approaches and practical issues and debates that have defined the evolution of Security Studies. They will engage the changing definitions of security and approaches to understanding security. It will address both ‘domestic’ and ‘international’ security and the ways in which these are increasingly connected in both theory and practice. Moreover, it will introduce students to the inter-disciplinary nature of engagements with security (from politics to geography to technology). It will engage theorising in application by introducing students both to the major concepts and theoretical assumptions of understandings of security and showing how these play out in debates and practices of security. Students will be introduced to the core concepts and differences between ‘traditional’ rationalist theories of security and the emergence and development of varieties of critical security studies. They will then examine key issues in security that may include: The state, sovereignty and internal securities; uncertainty, the security dilemma and risk; regimes, regions and security communities; non-proliferation and disarmament; theorising war; migration and borders; surveillance and security; cyber-security; environmental security: beyond energy and resource conflict; Poverty, food, and human security; gender and security; and others. Students will therefore engage critically with the intersections of theory and practice; domestic and international; and state and human securities; and be able to understand contemporary transformations of security in relation to power, sovereignty, mobilities, and technology.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module students will:
- Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of different theoretical engagements with security and the diversity of critical approaches.
- Understand how theories of security translate into different political practices of security.
- Be able to apply critical security concepts to contemporary security practices.
- Critically engage in debates on key developments in the politics of security.
- Be able to reflect upon the ethical and political implications developments in security theory and practice.
- Be able to engage in depth with a wide range of security issues in a theoretically informed way.
- Pursue independent, creative and critical thinking through both written work and group discussions.Skills
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
• Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments
• Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing
• Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning
• Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment
• Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development
• Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
• Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information
• Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way
• Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative waysCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7051
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Global Terrorism (20 credits)Global Terrorism
Overview
This module introduces students to the range of important issues relating to the phenomenon of
global terrorism and responses in terms of the global war on terrorism.
The key debates that students will engage with will include: the emergence of transnational terrorism structures, transnational terrorism case studies, state and transnational state responses to terrorism including international actors such as the UN, NATO and other regional organisations.
The study of these debates will lead to the investigation of particular groups, state actors, themes and responses which will culminate in a student-led simulation exercise.
Overall the module aims to equip students with an understanding of the key discourse and examples as they pertain to contemporary terrorist challenges and responses at a global level.Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module students should
- Have acquired a good understanding of the basic concepts underlying the module;
- Have an in depth knowledge of a variety of manifestations of violence and terrorism and;
- Be able to critically discuss different responses to terrorism, situated on a spectrum from domestic to international measures.Skills
The module provides students with opportunities to develop the following skills:
Intellectual skills
• Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: to identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; to manage such information in an independent manner;
• Analytical Thinking: to identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; to construct independent arguments;
• Critical & Independent Thinking: to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field
Professional and career development skills
• Communication Skills: to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing;
• Diversity: to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment;
• Self-Reflexivity: to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development;
• Time Management: to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; to cope with stress; and to achieve a work / life balance.
Technical and practical skills
• Information Technology: to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to use contemporary and relevant ICT.
Organizational skills
• Efficient and effective work practice: to demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines;
• Clear organisation of information: to show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information;
• Organisation and communication: to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; to show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way;
• Enterprising thinking: to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, display originality of thought and argument.Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7007
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
Global Political Economy (20 credits)Global Political Economy
Overview
This module provides a themed examination of the changing politics of the world economy, through the lens of the sub/inter-discipline, known as International Political Economy. International Political Economy (IPE) has become the accepted academic term for the analysis of the exercise of economic power and the politics of economic policy and capitalist development placed in a global context. This module introduces students to theories and concepts in International Political Economy related to the exercise of power and authority. It then goes to analyze a number of key topics and issues relating to the power and politics of economic organization and management including: the future of United States supremacy; the politics of money and finance; theories of development; the politics and policy of economic development in developing countries; problems of underdevelopment; the politics of global civil society; the global politics of energy policy and climate change; and the political economy of environmental sustainability.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to:, understand the main theoretical, ideological and normative interpretations of and claims relating to globalisation; understand the ways in which globalisation is reconfiguring political, cultural and economic processes; pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, employing analytical skills and critical thinking; communicate ideas to others in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in written form.
Skills
Students will develop key intellectual skills such as critical analysis, creative thinking, problem solving; communication, e.g., oral, listening and written, working with others, improvement of learning and performance, managing information They will also cultivate employability skills such as research and communication skills, independent learning (organising and prioritising ideas), critical/independent thinking, co-operative endeavour (e.g. tutorial based teamwork). Subject specific skills include: listening/analytical/literacy/presentation skills; comparative methods, textual analysis, developing cogent arguments, ability to participate in a tolerant and supportive learning environment
Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
PAI7030
Teaching Period
Spring
Duration
12 weeks
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Entry requirements
Entrance requirements
Graduate
Normally a minimum of a 2.1 Honours degree or above, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a Social Sciences, Humanities or Arts subject, or a minimum of a 2.1 Honours degree or above, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in any subject with relevant professional experience.
Further criteria may be applied since placements are limited. This may include ranking applications on the basis of academic performance, a personal statement and/or an interview.
Please Note: due to external international funding deadlines and the limited availability of internships, the closing date for non-UK/Irish applicants to this programme is 31st January 2024 at 4pm GMT; for UK/Irish applicants the closing date for applications is 29th March 2024 at 4pm GMT. Applications received after these closing dates will be regarded as LATE and will be considered only if vacancies exist when all applications received by these closing dates have been processed.
A deposit is required to secure your place. (This condition of offer will be in addition to any academic or English language requirements).
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).
International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.
For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
- Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
- Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
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Fees and Funding
Career Prospects
Introduction
All of the MA programmes offered in the School provide our graduates with the skills to pursue a wide range of careers in the private, public and voluntary sectors. In addition they provide an appropriate basis for those who wish to proceed to Doctoral-level study. Former students on the Global Security and Borders programme have gone on to the following careers:
- Fully funded PhD Programme in the US
- UK Navy
- Immigration services in Ireland
- Law School on the US
- Civil Service in Canadian Federal Government
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/
Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
Tuition Fees
Northern Ireland (NI) 1 | £7,300 |
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 | £7,300 |
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 | £9,250 |
EU Other 3 | £21,500 |
International | £21,500 |
1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
More information on postgraduate tuition fees.
Additional course costs
Students will undertake internships located mostly in the Greater Belfast area. Where the internship requires travel outside the Belfast area, the School of HAPP will negotiate with the host institution/provider to cover travel costs.
Terms and Conditions for Postgraduate applications:
1.1 Due to high demand, there is a deadline for applications.
1.2 You will be required to pay a deposit to secure your place on the course.
1.3 This condition of offer is in addition to any academic or English language requirements.
Read the full terms and conditions at the link below:
https://www.qub.ac.uk/about/Leadership-and-structure/Faculties-and-Schools/Arts-Humanities-and-Social-Sciences/WelcometotheFaculty/AHSSPostgraduateTaughtProgrammes/
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
How do I fund my study?
The Department for the Economy will provide a tuition fee loan of up to £6,500 per NI / EU student for postgraduate study. Tuition fee loan information.
A postgraduate loans system in the UK offers government-backed student loans of up to £11,836 for taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas. Criteria, eligibility, repayment and application information are available on the UK government website.
More information on funding options and financial assistance - please check this link regularly, even after you have submitted an application, as new scholarships may become available to you.
International Scholarships
Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.
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How to Apply
Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
When to Apply
The deadline for applications is normally 30th June 2021. In the event that any programme receives a high volume of applications, the university reserves the right to close the application portal earlier than 30th June deadline. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Entry Portal (DAP) against the programme application page.
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.
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Fees and Funding