Modules

• Year 1

  Core Modules

  Quantitative Methods (20 credits)

  ×

  Quantitative Methods

  Overview

  This course builds on the Mathematics taught at GCSE level or an equivalent level. The course is taught paying particular attention to the solving of economic problems and relating these to applications to the real world. There are two parts in the module.
  
  The first part covers mathematical techniques required to solve applied economic problems. It begins with a revision of basic algebraic methods. These ideas are then further developed to cover more advanced mathematical concepts including linear and non-linear functions; single variable calculus and calculus of several variables.
  
  The second part covers basic statistical methods used by economists and other social scientists. This will include data presentation, descriptive statistics, basic regression analysis, time series and elementary probability theory. Students will also be taught how to use Excel to perform basic statistical analysis.

  Learning Outcomes

  On the successful completion of the module students will be able to:
  
  1. Know what is meant by a function.
  2. Use calculus methods to solve basic economic problems such as profit maximization.
  3. Use calculus to locate the maxima and minima for functions of several variables.
  4. Use descriptive statistics to present data.
  5. Know what is meant by a probability distribution.
  6. Perform basic regression analysis and time series forecasting.
  7. Exhibit transferable skills of problem solving, numeracy and the communication of mathematical concepts.

  Skills

  The aim of this module is to give students a basic working knowledge of the mathematics and statistics that is needed in the quantitative and non-quantitative level 2 and level 3 modules. The primary focus of the module is to provide the basic tools to solve practical, applied problems.

  Coursework

  0%

  Examination

  100%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO1009

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Philosophy and Human Nature (20 credits)

  ×

  Philosophy and Human Nature

  Overview

  An introduction to some fundamental philosophical problems arising from theories of human nature in the western philosophical tradition, and to the methods which philosophers use for solving them, including techniques of sound reasoning and argument. Topics covered will include the soul, personal identity, free will, God and evil, and life after death (among others). Reference will be made to the ideas and arguments of many important figures in the history of philosophy, including Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Descartes, Hume and Kant.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon completion of this introduction to the nature and range of Philosophy, students will have developed a familiarity with the ideas of a number of important philosophers and a sense of the principles of sound and effective reasoning and argument.

  Skills

  KEY Intellectual skills, e.g., critical analysis, creative thinking, problem solving; communication skills, e.g., oral, listening and written; improvement of learning and performance; managing information. EMPLOYABILITY Research and communication skills (written and oral), independent learning (organising and prioritising ideas), critical/independent thinking. SUBJECT SPECIFIC Listening/analytical/literacy/presentation skills; textual analysis; the comprehension and formulation of extended and cogent arguments; the ability to participate in a tolerant and supportive learning environment.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL1001

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  The Economy (40 credits)

  ×

  The Economy

  Overview

  The Economy is the title of our new CORE (Curriculum Open-access Resource for Economics) module for Level 1. CORE is the result of a huge global collaboration to change the way introductory economics is taught; to ensure it is student-centred and motivated by real-world problems and real-world data. The module focuses throughout on evidence on the economy, from around the world, and from history. It is motivated by questions — how can we explain what we see? The method is to ask interesting questions first and then to introduce models that help to answer them. Standard tools such as constrained optimization are taught – CORE covers the ground covered by traditional economics principles modules and much, much more – by showing how they give insight into real-world problems. Economics as a discipline is set in a social, political, and ethical context in which institutions matter.
  
  The module starts with a big picture analysis of how the global economy came to look as it does today. It goes on to consider economic decision making of single actors; economic relationships and interactions; markets, their dynamics, and how they work (or may not work); and the aggregate economy in the short, medium and long runs. The module concludes by applying economic understanding to one or more key global issues such as globalization, inequality, or environmental sustainability and collapse.

  Learning Outcomes

  Successful completion of the module will enable students to understand:
  
  - The reach of economics and its place in the wider social sciences;
  - How to interpret relevant evidence and apply relevant economic theory to help answer a variety of economic and social questions;
  - How to critically evaluate the application of models in economics to real-world questions and policy issues;
  - The key aspects of the historical development of the global economy and its contemporary nature.

  Skills

  Subject-specific skills
  
  The ability to construct arguments and exercise problem solving skills in the context of real-world economic and social questions; the ability to construct, interpret and critically evaluate economic models of behaviour; the ability to apply economic models and concepts to real world questions; the ability to understand, evaluate and commentate on the economy and on economic and social policy.
  
  Cognitive and transferable skills
  
  Problem solving, logical reasoning, independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, self-assessment and reflection, synthesising information from a variety of sources, written and verbal communication, organisation and time management.

  Coursework

  50%

  Examination

  50%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  ECO1013

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Perspectives on Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Perspectives on Politics

  Overview

  This module aims to introduce students to the broad field of political theory and philosophy, a necessary and integral component of the study of politics generally. Taking a contemporary approach to the subject, the module stresses the vital importance of theoretical enquiry for understanding, analysing, and criticizing everyday socio-political life. Students are therefore introduced to key concepts and problems in the study of politics, including the meaning of democracy, the fraught relation between the individual and society, and the contested nature of power and political authority. In exploring these themes, students come to an appreciation of the complexities surrounding our everyday notions of democratic rule, freedom, justice, citizenship, government, and power.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students should acquire an understanding of a number of ways of conceptualising and analysing critically key aspects of political life. On successful completion of the module they will have demonstrated capacities for reading texts in contemporary political theory and exploring the implication of these writings for practical politics.

  Skills

  Analytical and conceptual skills. The ability to argue cogently in oral and written communication.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1007

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Issues in Contemporary Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Issues in Contemporary Politics

  Overview

  To expose students to contemporary/recent and developing political issues locally, nationally and globally. The module will change year-to-year depending on these issues and staff availability. Typically each topic/issue will be taught in 3-week blocs and each bloc either team taught or given by the same colleague.
  
  Indicative list of issues (not exhaustive)
  Political Economy - trade, finance, energy, resources, politics of austerity
  War/conflict/geopolitics - current crisis in Syria, ISIS, Ukraine-Russia-EU, Israel-Palestine
  Environment/Sustainability - climate change, climate justice, biodiversity loss,
  Political Parties and Policy-making - rise of Jeremy Corbyn, Bernie Sanders, reform of party finances, decentralisation of policy-making, innovations such as participative budgeting from around the world;
  Gender, women and politics – Hilary Clinton as US President/candidate, strategies for increasing women’s representation (including quotas), the women’s movement and politics
  Social movements and political ideas – Occupy movement, religion and politics, relevance of debates on long-standing normative political ideas – social justice, democracy, recogniton etc. to these issues; role of trades unions, workplace democracy, workers rights etc.
  Migration and refugees – normative, empirical and political-policy explanations of and responses to flows of people across borders, current Syrian one for example, but also other case studies
  Leadership and citizenship- examples of political leadership and citizenship in formal electoral politics and civil society from around the world

  Learning Outcomes

  Knowledge of long-standing or emerging contemporary international political issues
  
  To be able to connect conceptual-normative ideas about politics to these contemporary issues
  
  To be above to connect the issues, themes, ideas of this module to other Level 1 PISP modules in on their Degree Programme
  
  To come to their own understanding and explanation of the political issues covered
  
  Understand the main dynamics, actors, factors to be considered in order to analytically understand and causally explain these contemporary political issues

  Skills

  Critical and Independent Thinking
  Ability to integrate conceptual and empirical information and data
  Critically analyse evidence and normative positions and appreciate different analyses of the same issue
  Summarise the main points of different issues, positions and approaches to understanding politics
  Understand complex issues, different understandings and perspectives on political issues
  Verbal and written communication of complex issues and express one’s own critical understanding of published research and other module resources
  Managing and 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

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1003

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Philosophy and The Good Life (20 credits)

  ×

  Philosophy and The Good Life

  Overview

  This module is an introduction to moral philosophy, requiring no prior acquaintance with the subject. The module is topic based. In the first half, we will investigate some major theories of morality – systematic accounts of what makes something morally right or wrong. In the second half, we will look at the application of these theories to some practical issues, including abortion, the treatment of animals, and our duties to those in the developing world.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of a number of theories in moral philosophy; explain the relevance of these theories to some key issues in applied ethics; converse and write with critical authority about the ideas of a number of important philosophers; demonstrate the principles of sound and effective reasoning and argument; show tolerance for different and challenging ideas.

  Skills

  Students should develop skills in literacy, analysis, and communication, and the ability to comprehend and develop clear and extended arguments.

  Coursework

  30%

  Examination

  60%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL1004

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Contemporary Europe (20 credits)

  ×

  Contemporary Europe

  Overview

  The module provides a wide-ranging introduction to political developments in contemporary Europe. Following analysis of the nature and consequences for Europe of the Cold War, the module analyses some of the major political, economic and security challenges Europe has had to face since 1989 including the processes of economic and political transformation in Central and Eastern Europe as well as war in the former Yugoslavia and Ukraine. Featuring prominently in the module are developments in the process of European integration with a primary focus on the EU, how it is organized and operates, what powers it has, the attitudes of selected states in contemporary Europe towards membership, and the effects of integration on them. In doing so, the module considers the origins and implications of the Eurozone crisis for European integration as well as public attitudes towards the process.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will
  1. Understand the historical background to contemporary Europe;
  2. Analyse critically selected major political developments and trends in Europe since the end of the Cold War;
  3. Appreciate key concepts and understandings associated with the political organization of Europe;
  4. Appreciate key concepts and understandings associated with the European Union as a political entity;
  5. Analyse how the major European states have engaged with the European Union since 1957;
  6. Understand public reactions to European integration.
  7. Appreciate selected major political and security challenges facing contemporary

  Skills

  The module will develop students' analytical, research and communication skills; allow students to refine their essay-writing skills; and enhance their abilities to think critically.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI1001

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Introductory Logic (20 credits)

  ×

  Introductory Logic

  Overview

  An introduction to fundamental logical notions such as validity and entailment, including an examination of the nature of critical thinking in argumentation. This introduction may include some treatment of elementary issues in the philosophy of logic, but will focus primarily on elementary formal symbolic logic (especially propositional but also predicate calculus), using natural deduction techniques.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  
  • Acquire at least a limited ability to practice symbolic reasoning at the most basic level together with a more discursive grasp of the basic notions of logic, and of standard examples of fallacious reasoning.
  • Develop skills in analysis and communication
  • Develop the ability to comprehend and some ability to formulate clear and extended arguments.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  • 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 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
  • 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

  Coursework

  0%

  Examination

  80%

  Practical

  20%

  Stage/Level

  1

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL1003

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

• Year 2

  Core Modules

  The Politics & Economics of the Devolved UK (20 credits)

  ×

  The Politics & Economics of the Devolved UK

  Overview

  The first half of the module focuses on the politics of devolution in the UK and discusses the devolution of power to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in a multi-level perspective. It discusses the way power was devolved across the UK and how these settlements have changed over time, the policy impact of devolution, the politics of resources and identity that shape the party systems of the regions and nations of the UK, and the relations between the devolved ‘parts’ and the whole (Westminster and the UK government) and the challenges of intergovernmental relations in an asymmetrical union.
  
  The second half of the module is concerned with the economic experience of devolution/decentralization in the UK, as well as the theoretical models developed by economists to discuss devolved political structures. It will include a survey of economic performance under devolution and a discussion of the relationship between devolution and new institutional economics.

  Learning Outcomes

  By the end of the module, students will acquire knowledge and understanding of
  - the political and economic dynamics of devolution in the UK, including the existence of long-running economic unevenness within the UK;
  - the asymmetric nature of devolution;
  - the opportunities devolution provides for policy transfer and learning across the devolved territories;
  - its effects on the party systems of the devolved territories; an understanding of the UK as a union rather than a unitary state;
  - the continuing challenges devolution presents to the governance of the UK;
  - how the financing of devolution has operated in practice; and the extent to which devolution has affected economic performance in the ‘Celtic Fringe’.

  Skills

  Key intellectual skills relate to the managing and prioritization of knowledge; analytical and critical thinking and the ability to construct independent arguments. The professional and career development skills include: the ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing; to work with others in a team; to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences within the learning environment; the ability to identify and act upon ones own development needs; and to negotiate diverse and competing pressures in order to achieve an effective work-life balance. Technical and practical skills involve the ability to employ relevant ICT, while organizational skills involves working to deadlines; handling information efficiently; and employing evidence-based arguments.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2045

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Democracy, Ethics & Economics (20 credits)

  ×

  Democracy, Ethics & Economics

  Overview

  This module examines the interface and inter-relationships between politics, philosophy and economics. The first section deals with issues in classical political economy, - the relationship between political ideology and economics, the history and power of economic thought , how democratic institutions interact with the economy and the notion of public goods. Section two scrutinises the post war economic development project, - the relationship between traditionalism and modernity, western and oriental development models, the ethics of (under) development and the political and economic implications of contemporary development philosophy. Section three considers the issue of social justice, libertarian versus egalitarian debates, the ethical and political underpinnings of successful legitimate markets, and the concept of workplace democracy.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the module students will:
  • Have a familiarity with some of the key debates in classic political economy and moral philosophy concerning economic power, the economy as a political creation and the relationship between the state and the economy;
  • Be able to apply these concepts and debates to questions of economic development, the ethical implications of contemporary development trajectories and to a major current policy issue;
  • Understand and distinguish between different cultural understandings of the economy and the role of economic development;
  • Be familiar with debates on social justice, the question of how markets can be civilised and the concept of work place democracy;

  Skills

  Students will develop the ability to think critically and philosophically about economics and the economy, while placing it in its appropriate political context.
  Students will be able to communicate ideas to others in coherent and concise, written and oral form;
  Students will be able to think analytically, critically and logically about a range of important contemporary social issues.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2044

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Macroeconomic Policy and Performance (20 credits)

  ×

  Macroeconomic Policy and Performance

  Overview

  The course opens with a brief tour of the global economy. This is followed by a discussion of the meaning and measurement of the main macroeconomic variables: output, unemployment, inflation and growth. The goods and financial markets and the concept of macroeconomic equilibrium are introduced. The IS/LM model is used to analyse the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policy in the medium term. Aspects of the labour market are then considered followed by the introduction of the aggregate demand and aggregate supply model. The final third of the course is devoted to a discussion of factors contributing to the long run growth of the economy. The topics covered include: the Solow model of economic growth; growth accounting; factors contributing to total technological change and total factor productivity and the role and regulation of foreign direct investment.

  Learning Outcomes

  Knowledge and Understanding
  On completion of the course, students should have greater familiarity with salient features of the macroeconomic environment. They should understand the main determinants of aggregate output in a monetary economy in the short, medium and long-run. They should have an understanding of the factors contributing to growth and development as well as to fluctuations in macroeconomic performance. Students should understand government’s role in the economy and be able to analyze the effect of different policy interventions.

  Skills

  Intellectual Skills
  
  Students will gain knowledge and understanding of aspects of macroeconomic theory and development theory. They will become aware of competing views on the role of governments and markets. They will develop the ability to search for and interpret empirical evidence and bring it to bear on policy issues. They will gain experience in weighing evidence, developing policy options and outlining the pros and cons of these options.
  
  Practical Skills
  Students will develop their oral and written communication skills as well as their awareness of how economic policy can impact on business.

  Coursework

  40%

  Examination

  60%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO2002

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Security and Terrorism (20 credits)

  ×

  Security and Terrorism

  Overview

  This module explores contemporary approaches to the study of security and terrorism. It will examine changes in definitions of security and terrorism, the evolution of approaches to the study of security and terrorism. Students will be familiarised with the main “threats” to state and human security; the changing nature of war and other organised violence; and areas of security policy and practice including arms control, alliance formation, peacekeeping and peacebuilding, among others. Students will also explore domestic and transnational non-state terrorism, state terrorism, and counter-terrorism policy and practice.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of the course students will:
  • Be familiar with the main theories and approaches to the study of security and terrorism; and the debates between them.
  • Understand and be able to discuss the relative merits of different theoretical approaches to security issues.
  • Be able to critically evaluate international policy and practice in key areas of security policy and counter-terrorism.
  • Be able to communicate ideas to others in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in written form;
  • Be able to pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, employing analytical skills and critical thinking.

  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.
  
  Communication Skills, including oral and written communication.
  • Time-Management
  • Information Technology skills;
  • Organisation and communication skills;
  • Enterprise Thinking.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2055

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Introduction to the Philosophy of Science (20 credits)

  ×

  Introduction to the Philosophy of Science

  Overview

  This will be an exploration of fundamental philosophical issues raised by the practice of science. It will cover issues in scientific methodology, scientific knowledge, the language of science, the relation between scientific theories and reality, the rationality of science and progress and the relation between science and society.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will at least be able to
  • demonstrate an understanding of the ‘demarcation’ problem between science and non-science
  • articulate various versions of the problem of induction, as well its consequences for the justification of scientific claims
  • demonstrate familiarity with differing accounts of scientific methodology, including inductivism and falsificationism
  • confidently discuss and evaluate issues to do with observation, observables, and the theory-ladenness of observation
  • demonstrate familiarity with the realism/antirealism debates in the philosophy of science

  Skills

  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
  • Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon ones own development needs
  
  Organizational skills
  • Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines
  • 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%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL2027

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Philosophy of Race (20 credits)

  ×

  Philosophy of Race

  Overview

  This module engages critically with major issues in the philosophy of race through analysis of historical and contemporary texts and arguments. The module incorporates attention to social epistemological and metaphysical issues as well as to ethical and political issues, and will encourage students to appreciate the interconnections between these. The module may include discussion of the following questions: What is race? How do race, class, and gender intersect? How does colonialism affect our understanding of race? In what was does the history of racism impact on knowledge? How has race and racism affected our understanding of artworks and bodies? The precise issues covered in the module may vary from year to year, but are likely to include critical philosophy of race, metaphysics of race, epistemic injustice and race, coloniality, gender, and race, debates concerning social constructivism and biological realism, aesthetics and race, and feminist philosophy and race.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
  • Demonstrate critical analysis of key debates in the philosophy of race;
  • Apply relevant philosophical theories to analysis of key issues in the
  philosophy of race;
  • Demonstrate critical understanding of diverse accounts of race within
  philosophy and society.

  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

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL2028

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Identity Politics in Diverse Societies (20 credits)

  ×

  Identity Politics in Diverse Societies

  Overview

  Liberal values in Europe, as elsewhere, are coming under serious threat, driven by identity politics designed to exploit societal divisions. The historical link between liberalism and diversity in Europe, and the extent to which one can negotiate and accommodate, if not facilitate the other, holds the key to sustainable, coherent and peaceful societies. The module provides an overview and critical analysis of minority protection offering engagement with issues underpinning national politics, law and societal processes in Europe. Using a critical approach to contemporary politics, this module provides:
  
  - a historical analysis of state formation and nation building in Europe with context of religious wars and political revolutions, including the (re-)conceptualisation of basic concepts and terms such as territoriality, sovereignty, state, nation and citizenship;
  
  - reassesses primordial views on ethnicity/nationality and language & religious identities and provides a sociologically informed political lens to reconcile the requirements for political unity, obligations to international law and ensure social cohesion for the culturally diverse society;
  
  - examines the liberal and national ideological framings of equality protection in liberal-democratic regimes and the number of mechanisms from voting rights to proportional representation in state bodies, forms of cultural and territorial autonomy and federalism to engage with the challenges of the ongoing re-nationalisation in all parts of Europe.
  
  This module will help students interested in European politics, human and minority rights, governance and nationalism, and politics of diverse societies to understand the origins of and anticipate political developments of their increasingly diverse societies.

  Learning Outcomes

  - Place issues of governance in diverse societies in the context of domestic and European political and legal obligations to ensure equality of all citizens;
  
  - Contrast the differential impact nation-state building had in different parts of Europe on diverse resident populations and reflect on the role of European integration on political process;
  
  - Ascertain importance of diversity and equality as guarantee for societal stability and peace in and around Europe
  
  - Understand and be able to reflect critically on the impact accommodation and support for minorities has on the likelihood of conflict in contemporary Europe
  
  - Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in written form on issues relating to equality and diversity in contemporary Europe
  
  - Pursue intellectual questions in an academic manner, using analytical skills and critical thinking to develop transferrable skills

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  - Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner
  
  - 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 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 argument; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2066

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  History of Philosophy (20 credits)

  ×

  History of Philosophy

  Overview

  This module introduces students to key texts and arguments in the early modern period of philosophy. As well as examining texts by philosophers such as Descartes, Locke, Leibniz, Berkeley, and Hume, the module also enables students to explore texts written by less commonly taught philosophers, and to examine critical engagements with early modern texts. An indicative list of topics to be covered includes: empiricism and rationalism, ideas and language, scepticism, induction, causation, free will, and capacity for reason.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion, students will have an understanding of some of the key ideas and arguments in four of the most influential works in the history of western philosophy.

  Skills

  Skills in literacy, communication, organisation and presentation of extended arguments, development of critical powers, sensitivity to the significance of historically and culturally remote materials

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL2016

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Data Analysis and Optimisation (20 credits)

  ×

  Data Analysis and Optimisation

  Overview

  This level-2 module introduces a selection of introductory methods used to analyse data used in business and economics, such as regression analysis, optimization and project management. Statistical software (Stata and Excel) will be used in tutorials to illustrate concepts presented in lectures. Students are expected to use the knowledge gained in lectures and tutorials to perform their own data analysis project as part of a team. This module remains accessible to students without a strong statistical background, as long as they are open to learning how to read and interpret basic statistics. Tutorials, group presentations and group projects in addition to traditional lectures are essential parts of this module as it focuses on practice and applications of quantitative methods used in business. Upon completion, successful students are expected to understand and use these methods and to improve their skills concerning problem solving, verbal and written presentation, computer utilization, and working as a group.

  Learning Outcomes

  1. The student will gain the necessary skills to use business data to make forecasts.
  2. The student will gain knowledge and understanding of several optimisation techniques used in business and elsewhere for decision and policy making.
  3. The student will be able to formulate several classes of business problems analytically and to solve them, with a good grasp of the various stages involved and the implications of underlying assumptions in a practical context.
  4. The student will supplement his or her computing skills by using Excel.

  Skills

  Exercise solving, computing skills, the adoption of a quantitative approach to practical problems encountered in business.

  Coursework

  40%

  Examination

  50%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO2023

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Irish Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Irish Politics

  Overview

  An examination of the Politics of Ireland (North and South) since 1920.

  Learning Outcomes

  To provide an understanding of the political systems of both parts of Ireland and to understand Northern Ireland as an example of a deeply divided society.

  Skills

  The ability to think analytically, communicate ideas with peers, reproduce ideas in an exam setting, and construct cogent essays.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2013

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Managerial Economics (20 credits)

  ×

  Managerial Economics

  Overview

  Managerial Economics is concerned with the application of economic principles and methodologies to the decision-making process inside corporations and other organisations operating under conditions of risk and uncertainty. Students acquire a solid foundation in key analytical tools: game theory, transaction costs, information asymmetries and the principal-agent problem. These tools are used to understand organisational architecture: the assignment of decision rights within organisations, the methods of incentivising individuals, and the structures and systems used to evaluate the performance of individuals and business units. This module draws on material from allied academic fields, including personnel economics, behavioural economics, financial economics and business history.

  Learning Outcomes

  • Students will gain a better understanding of the functioning of economic agents under conditions of risk and uncertainty.
  • Students will acquire detailed knowledge about the economics of the firm, including the specific role of information, property rights and transaction costs.
  • Students will become familiar with key issues facing the owners, managers and employees of business organisations, including how these issues change with the external economic environment.
  • Students will learn how to identify, describe, analyse and solve a selection of real-world problems in managerial economics.

  Skills

  Skills gained include: logical reasoning and problem solving, working effectively in groups, and written and verbal communication skills.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO2009

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Modern Political Thought (20 credits)

  ×

  Modern Political Thought

  Overview

  This module focuses on a critical analysis of key texts and themes in the history of modern political thought. It has two aims. Firstly, by adopting a historical approach to the development of modern political thought we learn about the ideas that have shaped our own political thinking. We are typically unaware of the ways in which this history has shaped how we frame problems and our basic assumptions about how to respond to them. Adopting a historical perspective on modern political thought helps us to bring these unexamined assumptions into focus and allows us to think more creatively about how to respond to political problems. In learning about this history we are learning about ourselves
  Secondly, the course has a practical aim. Ideas are tools for responding to problems. By learning about the different arguments of these thinkers we can acquire tools to help us think about our own political problems. Some of the ideas of these thinkers are good ones, some not so good and there is often disagreement about which is which. We can learn from the mistakes of others as much as we can learn from their positive contributions.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  
  - Be familiar with the central arguments of key texts in the history of modern political thought
  - Understand the main traditions of thought which have shaped contemporary political thinking
  - Be equipped with the analytical skills necessary to necessary to interpret and criticize complex arguments.

  Skills

  The aim of the module is to provide students with the necessary analytical and interpretive tools to understand complex arguments. It will provide students with an opportunity to develop communication skills (listening, oral and written), and equip students with basic intellectual skills (particularly critical thinking and analysis). Students will also learn to present their own thoughts and arguments in a logical and coherent manner and to make points in a clear and succinct manner. These are key transferable skills.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2005

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  International Relations (20 credits)

  ×

  International Relations

  Overview

  This module sets out to help students understand and analyse the development of International Relations as a discipline through its theories and major issues. The key theories of international relations are examined, from Realism, through Marxism to contemporary approaches such as Poststructuralism, with a focus upon how each one criticises and responds to the others revealing its strengths and weaknesses. Within this, major issues of international relations will be explored from a theoretical and conceptual perspective, such as the balance of power, peace, international society, norms and gender. Finally, the course turns to modern challenges to the discipline of International Relations, such as International Political Economy, the spread of Globalization, and contemporary concerns with security and the War on Terror. The module therefore considers how well International Relations is responding to these challenges.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon completion of this module, students should be able to: Understand the main approaches to the study of IR, including current theoretical developments in the discipline. Understand the relationship between the academic analysis of international relations and the actual behaviour (e.g. foreign policy) of states. Communicate ideas to others in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in written form. Pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, employing analytical skills and critical thinking.

  Skills

  The module aims to equip students with basic intellectual skills (e.g. critical thinking, analysis, problem solving), as well as communication skills.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2017

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Studying Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Studying Politics

  Overview

  Without understanding the methodology of research practice it is not possible to undertake political research effectively or to critically assess the work of others. Equally, without research skills it is not possible to test our assertions, assumptions, knowledge and preconceptions about the political world. Research methods are therefore crucial if we are to be able to address the important questions of ‘how do we know’ and ‘what is there to know’, which are critical in all fields of political studies. Consequently, this module has four aims. Firstly, to introduce students to the political research environment, incorporating both the elements and processes that underpin inquiry. Secondly, the module seeks to examine different methodologies and techniques to enable the undertaking of both original and critical research. Thirdly, to encourage candidates to develop a critical appreciation of data including both content and use. Fourthly, to promote a general awareness and working knowledge not only of the complexities of political research but also of the variety of environments in which research takes place.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
  
  • Describe the relationship between the researchers of, the actors in and the environment determining political and social processes.
  • Develop communication skills through computer lab participation and writing for coursework.
  • Identify both the strengths and weaknesses of different research techniques.
  • Pursue intellectual questions on the basis of interpretation and analysis of data in a rigorous and academic manner by employing analytical skills and critical thinking.
  • Critically assess the collection of data and understand its use as a tool for understanding political processes.
  • Evaluate and discriminate between qualitative and quantitative data analyses and, in doing so, demonstrate a willingness to implement good practice.
  • Interpret the research of others and appreciate the problems involved in both collection and interpretation of data.
  • Compare, contrast and choose between different quantitative research methods and justify the choice through an awareness and working knowledge of quantitative methodology.
  • Implement basic intellectual skills that include data understanding, analysis, numeracy, and problem solving.
  • Present research findings in an appropriate manner and communicate finding to others in a clear and concise manner in written form.

  Skills

  To think analytically and methodologically, to apply quantitative analysis techniques using specialised computer software, and to interpret and communicate results of statistical analyses.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2043

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Moral Theories (20 credits)

  ×

  Moral Theories

  Overview

  This module explores both the status and content of morality. Drawing on historical and contemporary sources, it addresses a broad range of metaethical and normative questions, including: can morality be objective? Are moral judgments based on feeling? Are there any reasons to be moral? Is moral truth relative to particular cultures or societies? What makes right acts right? Does the end justify the means? Are there any absolute restrictions on human conduct? Is happiness all that matters? Do animals have rights?

  Learning Outcomes

  Students should be able to give a brief history of ethical theory from ancient times together with a more detailed discussion of some twentieth century moral philosophers who have been most influential in modern thought about ethics.

  Skills

  An understanding of the nature of practical reasoning. Learning to discuss rationally and dispassionately moral views which one may find personally abhorrent.

  Coursework

  35%

  Examination

  55%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL2000

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  American Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  American Politics

  Overview

  This survey course introduces students to the American political system, current debates on democracy in America and its role in the world. The first section of the module, examines the basic institutions of the American political system, its origins, development and evolving dynamics. Particular emphasis is placed on the US Constitution, federalism and the system of checks and balances, as well as the three branches of government: the Presidency, Congress and the Supreme Court. The second section constitutes a more normative engagement with issues relating to the contemporary nature of American democracy, examining in particular controversies surrounding the electoral process and the role of socioeconomic inequality and race in shaping political outcomes.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students will acquire an understanding of the basic components of the American political system and its historical and ideational origins. Students will be conversant with contemporary debates on the nature of democracy and its socio-economic context in America.

  Skills

  Ability to think conceptually and pursue rigorous, systematic inquiry into some aspect(s) of American Politics. Ability to construct a lucid argument, theoretically and empirically informed, in examination paper form, and to present oral arguments in a concise manner.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI2018

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Knowledge and Reality (20 credits)

  ×

  Knowledge and Reality

  Overview

  Problems in contemporary analytical epistemology and metaphysics. Epistemology topics covered will include scepticism, analysis of knowledge, internalism/externalism, and sources of justification; metaphysics topics will include identity, necessity, universals, and particulars.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of current theories of knowledge.

  Skills

  Students should be able to identify, formulate and appreciate the key points in an argument as presented in lecture or reading; and to develop cogency in written expression.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  2

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL2001

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

• Year 3

  Core Modules

  Optional Modules

  Security and Technology (20 credits)

  ×

  Security and Technology

  Overview

  Security politics has long been associated with the development, use and regulation of new technologies, from the ‘nuclear revolution’ to contemporary practices of cyber-security and surveillance. This module focusses on the inter-relationships of technology and security, and seeks to develop advanced understanding of the complexities of the “technopolitics” of security. This includes both novel technologies and the mundane materialities of security (fences, walls, guns). It introduces students to the role and political significance of science and technology from different theoretical perspectives, from political realism to the contemporary ‘material turn’ in critical security studies. It seeks to engage students in contemporary political debates and practices that entangle science and technology and security politics which may include issues such as cyber-security, UAVs/Drones, disarmament, nuclear terrorism, critical infrastructure protection, technologies of killing, biotechnology, biometrics, surveillance, border control, food security, health and medical technologies, and technologies of (military) bodies, among others. The module incorporates both theoretical perspectives (including IR/Security theory, and wider philosophy of technology and Science, Technology and Society approaches) and in depth empirical material.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the module students will:
  
  - Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of different theoretical understandings of science and technology in security politics and practice.
  - Be able to discuss in depth the politics of several key security technologies.
  - Critically engage in debates on key developments in the politics of security that relate to emerging technologies and technologically mediated forms of security practice.
  - Be able to reflect upon the ethical and political implications of technological developments and practices in relation to security.
  - 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 ways

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3073

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Topics in Epistemology (20 credits)

  ×

  Topics in Epistemology

  Overview

  This module explores some of the major topics in contemporary epistemology, especially the epistemology of testimony, and contextualism and its rivals.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will: Acquire the ability to critically discuss some of the most central problems and arguments in contemporary epistemology.

  Skills

  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 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 ways

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL3013

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Asylum and Migration in Global Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Asylum and Migration in Global Politics

  Overview

  down many routes for asylum seekers, turning attention to security and border control concerns. Bilateral and multi-lateral relations are imbued with concerns about controlling the movement of people as states work with and respond not only to each other, but to non-governmental and international organizations. These dynamics are imbued with global power relations, with changing notions of security and with age-old questions of sovereignty, citizenship, and belonging. The dominant policy direction favours solutions that emphasize either preventative protection or repatriation, both practices of containment and conflict resolution and management. We are witnessing a decline in the traditional category of refugees, but a rise in the number of internally displaced persons. Economic deprivation and poverty continues to pair with conflict to drive migration that muddies the waters between “forced” and “voluntary” categories. Increasing incidents of human smuggling and human trafficking, and a failure in many circles to effectively distinguish between the two, are demanding new policy innovations that are linking international criminal law to diplomatic relations – and migrants are caught in the middle. Finally, emerging categories such as “environmental refugees” are challenging the current refugee regime, which remains rooted in the 1951 Convention.
  
  This module will examine these changes in the fields of refugee and migration studies, asking questions that assess not only shifting policy and practices but also the impacts these shifts have on the lived lives of migrants themselves. We will engage these questions and the issues they raise through thoughtful and critical dialogue. We will focus on the politics of migration and citizenship as dynamic practices rather than pre-determined institutions, and ask what roles the various structures and frameworks of contemporary International Relations play in these politics. Importantly, we will also ask what role individuals play, and examine the politics of voice and agency in both shaping, contesting and resisting state practices. To tackle these issues, we will engage with both policy and theoretical literatures and illustrate conceptual and philosophical arguments through extensive use of specific case studies from different regions of the world. We will emphasize contemporary and emerging issues, but also look at the historical contexts and questions that shape the politics of migration and citizenship as they exist today.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3041

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Economic History (20 credits)

  ×

  Economic History

  Overview

  This module covers various topics in the economic history of the world across the last 500 years. It is intended to complement other final year modules; accordingly it emphasises the application of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory to solve economics and social problems in their historical context. On completion, students should be able to consider how economic reasoning can be used to explain both major historical events and long-run historical processes. Applied economics which makes use economic history is also covered. Tutorials concentrate on the in-depth discussion of landmark papers, especially in the New Economic History tradition, and on country-specific material, especially on Britain and Ireland. Topics may include: Demographic Transition; Industrial Revolution; Financialization; Divergence and Convergence; Culture, Religion and Human Capital; Anthropometrics and Health; Famine and Migration; Capitalist versus Command Economies, Great Depression, Modern Consumerism.

  Learning Outcomes

  1. To acquaint students at an advanced undergraduate level with the field of economic history and historical economics, including its major sub-fields business history and financial history.
  2. To get students to appreciate the usefulness of historical enquiry within economics and the broader social sciences.
  3. To provide students with an awareness of the long-run economic history of the world economy across the last 500 years.
  4. To further develop students' understanding of important themes within economics, such as demographic transition, industrialisation, competing economic systems, and economic crises.
  5. To develop students' ability to critically read academic articles, interpret data, weigh evidence and draw conclusions from a range of sources, both quantitative and qualitative.
  6. To provide students with the requisite skills to identify and frame independent research.

  Skills

  Awareness of how economics can be applied to have a better understanding of the wealth and poverty of nations, oral and written communication skills, analytical skills, evaluating evidence, making judgments, essay writing skills.

  Coursework

  75%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  25%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO3020

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Global Pol. Econ. of Energy (20 credits)

  ×

  Global Pol. Econ. of Energy

  Overview

  This module examines the role of natural resources in modern societies, with a particular focus on energy resources and how they have shaped international politics and economics. Specific topics include: the transition from coal to oil and the emerging role of the multinational energy corporations in international politics; the link between natural resources and development in the Global South; the nature and consequences of the ‘resource curse’; the geo-strategic implications of contestation over natural resources; a range of case studies, which may include the following: post-colonial petro-states in the Gulf of Guinea; the politics of land in Africa; the global impact of the US shale revolution; energy and authoritarianism in Russia and Venezuela; and the future of fossil fuels and the capitalist world order.

  Learning Outcomes

  By the end of this module, students will be able to identify key developments in the modern era of resource politics, and how domestic and international contestation over natural resources such as oil, gas, minerals and land have shaped global economic and political developments. Students will also be able to relate a range of topics and developments in global resource politics to other aspects of international politics and economics, including the emergence of the post-colonial world and the rising powers of the Global South, socio-economic development, international conflict and environmental sustainability.

  Skills

  Thinking conceptually and pursuing rigorous, systematic inquiry into various aspects of the political economy of natural resources in a global context; constructing lucid arguments that are theoretically and empirically informed, in both critical analysis and essay forms; presenting concise and clearly articulated oral arguments in a group setting. Intellectual skills development, including managing and prioritising knowledge, analytical thinking and critical and independent thinking. Professional and career development skills, including communication skills, self-reflexivity and time management. Organisational skills, including efficient and effective work practice, clear organisation of information, communication and enterprising thinking.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3012

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  The Placement (20 credits)

  ×

  The Placement

  Overview

  This Module offers students the opportunity to undertake a work placement for a total of 1.5 days per week for 12 weeks (18 days total) in a host organisation. Assessment will be via a portfolio, a research case study and an applied policy brief 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 thinking

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3089

  Teaching Period

  Both

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Philosophy of Technology and Environment (20 credits)

  ×

  Philosophy of Technology and Environment

  Overview

  This module engages critically with major issues in the philosophy of technology and environmental philosophy through analysis of historical and contemporary texts and arguments. The module may include discussion of the following questions: Ought we to enhance ourselves and future generations? What is artificial intelligence, and how does it affect knowledge? How should we be responding to the climate crisis? How should humans understand their relationship with nature? In what ways does climate justice intersect with refugee justice? How can we best address epistemic issues involved in understanding climate change? The module incorporates attention to epistemological and metaphysical issues as well as to ethical and political issues, and will encourage students to appreciate the interconnections between these. The precise issues covered in the module may vary from year to year, but are likely to include philosophy of enhancement, artificial intelligence, algorithm bias, digital privacy and surveillance, land and urban philosophy, animal philosophy, the global climate crisis, climate justice and refugee justice.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the module, students will be able to: * Demonstrate critical analysis of key debates in the philosophy of technology and in environmental philosophy; * Apply relevant philosophical theories and case information in discussing and responding to contemporary practical technological and environmental issues; * Demonstrate critical understanding of diverse accounts of technology and environment within philosophy and society.

  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

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL3070

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Party Politics in the 21st Century (20 credits)

  ×

  Party Politics in the 21st Century

  Overview

  Political parties define how we see and understand politics. Schattschneider (1942) wrote that ‘democracy is unthinkable save in terms of parties’. But does this remain the case? Political parties are central actors, mediating voter’s preferences and policy outcomes. At the same time, many parties in Western democracies have experienced partisan dealignment, declining membership, and increased competition from protest and populist actors. This module aims to explore the challenges facing political parties in the twenty-first century. How has the political party evolved? Has the role of political parties been diminished and if so, what might fill this gap? Have parties been supplanted by personalities? How do parties respond to the media/the social media aga? Topics may vary from year to year, allowing flexibility to capture key events and elections, but may include: the personalisation of party politics; parties in the age of climate emergency; populism and nationalism; social media and the party. The course emphasises both theory and practice, with a weekly qualitative analysis exercise relevant to the week’s topic.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module students will;
  
  Have a critical understanding of party politics and the role parties play in contemporary political life.
  Be able to identify and critically assess the key theories of party politics.
  Have demonstrated their understanding of one or more political parties through oral and written contributions.
  Have strengthened their first-hand experience in carrying out qualitative research through seminar exercises and assessments.

  Skills

  On completion of this module students will;
  
  Have a critical understanding of party politics and the role parties play in contemporary political life.
  Be able to identify and critically assess the key theories of party politics.
  Have demonstrated their understanding of one or more political parties through oral and written contributions.
  Have strengthened their first-hand experience in carrying out qualitative research through seminar exercises and assessments.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3102

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Environmental Economics (20 credits)

  ×

  Environmental Economics

  Overview

  The field of environmental economics informs policymakers of the policy levers required to efficiently guide society towards sustainable patterns of consumption. This module will provide students with a solid grounding on the theory and practice of environmental economics, focussing on climate change and the sustainable transformation of the energy system. Students will understand the economic rationale for a variety of alternative environmental policies, such as Pigouvian taxes. This module will cover the difference between theory and practice, outlining the policy experience in the UK, Ireland and Europe, and the role political and social constraints have in enacting effective environmental policy. Decarbonisation of electricity forms a central element of tackling climate change. Students will gain an understanding of how the single electricity market on the island of Ireland operates and will critically evaluate various decarbonisation policies. This module will also touch on issues such as behavioural economics when dealing with energy efficiency and consumer behaviour. As many well-meaning environmental policies have had counter-intuitive negative consequences, this module will empower students to fully engage with the costs and benefits of climate change interventions.

  Learning Outcomes

  1. To provide an understanding of the theory of Pigouvian taxation and to critically assess the means of implementing these policies.
  2. To critically evaluate environmental policy as enacted in the UK, Ireland and Europe.
  3. To understand the efficiency, equity and political economy trade-offs in environmental policy design
  4. To understand the economics of electricity markets and the efficiency and equity
  implications of various decarbonisation policies.
  5. To understand that well-meaning policies can have perverse unintended outcomes and that one must carefully think through the economic consequences.

  Skills

  Knowledge and understanding:
  Students should develop the economic rationale behind carbon taxation and the context for implementing different environmental policies. Students should understand how current environmental policies came to be and their economic and environmental impact. Students should understand how electricity markets operate. Energy and environmental economics touches on fields of game theory, behavioural economics and industrial organisation so students should develop an understanding of these fields also.
  
  Intellectual skills:
  Students should develop the ability to interrogate policies and to think through the economic consequences of a given measure. The ability to construct arguments on a solid economic foundations should be introduced to students.
  
  Practical skills:
  Students should develop an ability to evaluate and present an economic argument through continuous assessment assignments. Students should have a foundation in energy economics that will be desirable for future employers in industry, policy and research.
  
  Study skills:
  Students should develop the ability to critique an economic policy or argument. Students will work in groups when presenting their tutorial seminar, which should develop collaboration skills.

  Coursework

  25%

  Examination

  50%

  Practical

  25%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO3037

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  International Economics (20 credits)

  ×

  International Economics

  Overview

  International economics is a challenging and exciting sub-discipline of economics, which investigates the drivers and consequences of: (i) the international movement of goods and services; (ii) the international movement of money and capital; and (iii) the distributional consequences of these international transactions. This module will cover topics such as:
  
  - Which are the most influential theories of international economics?
  - What are empirically the most important drivers of international transactions?
  - Who benefits from international trade and why?
  - How can trade-induced inequalities be mitigated?
  - What are nominal and real exchange rates? What are their determinants? How do they influence international transactions?
  - What are the costs and benefits of different monetary systems, such as currency unions or fixed exchange rate systems?

  Learning Outcomes

  A course in international economics should help students gain a better understanding of a range of issues concerning the international transaction of goods, services and money. Specific learning outcomes for students include:
  
  - to gain a deeper understanding of both theory and empirical analysis in international economics, including international macroeconomics and international trade
  - to develop analytic skills, and be introduced to the main empirical methodologies used in international economics
  - to broaden students’ perspectives of the wide scope of international economics
  - to critically assess the often ambiguous evidence and real-life trade policy choices
  - to understand that well-meaning policies can have perverse unintended outcomes and that one must carefully think through the economic consequences.

  Skills

  Knowledge and understanding:
  Through this course, students should acquire a knowledge and understanding of:
  - the main theories of classical and contemporary international economics
  - increased awareness of distributional issues created by international trade
  - how the application of theory can help us understand the functioning of the world economy, and therefore predict the impact of government policies while taking into account country-specific contexts
  
  Intellectual skills:
  Through this course, students should be able to:
  - critically evaluate the main theories and concepts discussed in the course material
  - apply economic theories to a range of “real world” problems with specific reference to international economics.
  
  Practical skills:
  Through this course, students should develop:
  - an ability to evaluate and present an economic argument through continuous assessment.
  - a foundation in international economics that will be desirable for future employers in international institutions and (non-)governmental organisations that are concerned with analysing causes and consequences of international economic interaction, as well as policy and research.
  
  Study skills:
  Through this course, students should demonstrate and further develop the following skills:
  - research a wide range of relevant information
  - give effective presentations making use of appropriate information technology
  - write analytical essays based on sophisticated arguments.
  
  Transferable skills:
  Through this course, students should demonstrate and further develop the following transferable skills:
  - library and research skills, including time management
  - oral and written communication
  - presentation skills, including the use of appropriate information technology
  - group participation.

  Coursework

  75%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  25%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO3036

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Challenges to contemporary party politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Challenges to contemporary party politics

  Overview

  This module focuses on two themes: party system change and the contemporary challenges that affect political parties. Why and how do new parties emerge? Why do old parties survive crises and new party challenges? Who joins political parties and how can we explain the decline in party membership? How can parties and their representatives be more representative of society at large? Should parties be funded through our taxes or private money? Do political parties make a difference in terms of public policy? These are some of the questions that will be addressed in this module.
  The module is comparative in nature, with a focus on European and North American countries, but discussions of other cases are welcome.
  Assessment is designed to hone the students’ presentation, writing, critical and knowledge-transfer skills: students make a presentation that is partly assessed through student peer evaluation, write a case-study report and a book review, and write a policy paper in which they advise a (fictional) political party on addressing a contemporary challenge (representation of women and minorities, party finance, or membership).
  Past students on this module have enjoyed the presentations and the advantages of peer assessment (making the presentation to the whole class, more focus on content and making a good presentation, and getting to exercise their critical skills through marking), as well as the relaxed style of the seminars and the ability to write a policy paper instead of an academic essay.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the module, students will
   acquire knowledge of and engage with major debates within the literature on political parties, their interaction with other parties and their internal organisation;
   be able to identify and discuss the functions and roles played by political parties in modern representative democracies;
   be able to compare contexts of party and party system formation and forms of party organisation;
   be able to identify the challenges political parties currently face;
   use comparative qualitative and quantitative data to support arguments and evaluate relationships between variables/factors that contribute to explaining parties and party systems;
   develop and improve their skills in oral and written communication through seminar activities, presentations, essays and research papers, and feedback provided by the module convenor.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  • Managing and prioritizing knowledge: the skill of identifying relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data and to manage such information in an independent manner;
  • Synthesis of information: the skill of collecting, analysing and synthesizing information from a variety of web and library sources via oral debates and written work.
  • Critical and independent thinking: the ability to think critically and to construct one’s own position/argument in relation to leading debates within the field;
  • Comparative analysis: the knowledge and use of relevant data from a range of cases to illustrate support or challenge key arguments and debates and evaluate hypotheses (the relationship between variables or factors) in the literature. Also the ability to select appropriate cases and methodology to answer research questions.
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  • Communication skills: the ability to clearly communicate one’s position both orally and in writing;
  • Presentational and advocacy skills: the ability to present your ideas to a group of peers and sustain a convincing argument;
  • Evaluation skills: the ability to assess your peers’ work in an impartial fashion using a pre-determined set of criteria.
  
  Organizational skills
  
  • Preparatory skills: always being well prepared for tutorials (e.g. required reading)
  • Time management: effective use of study time, meeting coursework deadlines
  • Independent research: making good use of the library and the materials available

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3067

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  The Far Right in Western Europe and North America (20 credits)

  ×

  The Far Right in Western Europe and North America

  Overview

  Right-wing extremist parties have experienced success in elections in a number of countries in Western Europe over the last two or three decades. This phenomenon has attracted widespread attention, both in the media and in academic circles, sparking a number of frequently asked questions: why have these parties suddenly become electorally successful? What exactly do they stand for? What kind of people vote for them? Why do people vote for them? Why have they experienced more success in some countries than in others? Should we be worried about their rise? And what can we, or mainstream political parties, do to counter their rise?
  
  This module aims to examine all these questions. It begins by introducing students to the theoretical perspectives and key bodies of literature on the nature of right wing extremism in contemporary Europe, and it explores the complex conceptual, analytical and terminological debates surrounding this subject of enquiry. It places particular emphasis on the politics of the far right in France, Germany and the United Kingdom after 1945. It engages in empirical investigations into the ideology and the electoral base of different right-wing extremist parties across Western Europe and, in so doing, it also examines the question of why some right-wing extremist parties have been electorally more successful than others. It finishes by exploring the impact that right-wing extremist parties have had on public debate, policy-making and party competition over the last 30 years and by considering how mainstream parties have attempted to counter the rise and growing influence of the parties of the extreme right.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students will acquire knowledge of and engage with major debates within the literature on the far right. Students will be in a position to apply definitions and classifications of right-wing extremism to case studies so as to compare and contrast the ideologies right-wing extremist parties across Western Europe. Students will be able to identify and assess the reasons that explain why some right-wing extremist parties have been electorally more successful than others and be able assess the impact of right-wing extremism on public debate, policy-making and party competition across Western Europe and relate the academic study of right-wing extremism to questions of public and political concern.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  • Critical and independent thinking: the ability to think critically and to construct one’s own position/argument in relation to leading debates within the field
  • Synthesis of information: the skill of collecting, analyzing and synthesizing information from a variety of web and library sources via oral debates and written work.
  • Case study analysis: the knowledge and use of relevant case studies to illustrate, to support or to challenge key arguments and debates.
  
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  • Communication skills: the ability to clearly communicate one’s position both orally and in writing.
  • Advocacy skills: the ability to present and sustain a convincing argument.
  
  Organizational skills
  
  • Preparatory skills: always being well prepared for tutorials (e.g. required reading)
  • Time management: effective use of study time, meeting coursework deadlines
  • Independent research: making good use of the library and the materials available

  Coursework

  40%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  60%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3056

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Internship (40 credits)

  ×

  Internship

  Overview

  This Module offers students the opportunity to undertake a work placement for a total of 3 days per week for 12 weeks (36 days total) in a host organisation. Assessment will be via a portfolio, a research case study and an applied policy brief 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

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  PAI3097

  Teaching Period

  Both

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Philosophical Theology (20 credits)

  ×

  Philosophical Theology

  Overview

  This module will provide a systematic, philosophical approach to understanding and engaging with a number of topics in Christian Theology. Topics to be discussed will include divine eternity and God’s relationship to time, divine foreknowledge and human freedom, theological anthropology, and Christology. In pursuing these topics we will engage both with historical and contemporary sources.

  Learning Outcomes

  Students should become familiar with some basic issues in philosophical theology.

  Skills

  Skills in literacy and communication; the comprehension, formulation and evaluation of extended arguments, together with their written and oral presentation.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL3034

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Contemporary Political Philosophy (20 credits)

  ×

  Contemporary Political Philosophy

  Overview

  This module examines problems in contemporary normative political philosophy. Topics may vary from year to year, but will typically include questions about the interpretation of values such as freedom, equality, and welfare, principles of distributive justice, equal respect and social recognition, pluralism, toleration, and democracy.

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  -be in a position to think critically about the normative aspects of political life,
  -understand and be able to construct normative arguments about moral and political problems.
  -be able to structure logical arguments involving abstract ideas in both discussion and written work.

  Skills

  Note-taking both at lectures and during private study of key texts; ability to structure tightly knit arguments concerning abstract ideas in both oral and written form; debating and other oral communication skills; teamwork in small groups; role play.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3025

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Labour Economics (20 credits)

  ×

  Labour Economics

  Overview

  For most of us the labour market is arguably the most important market that we ever participate in: it’s where we spend a lot of our lifetime and is where most of the income that we spend on goods and services comes from. Labour economics helps us to understand this key market and our own place within it. Many social policy issues – poverty and inequality, unemployment, welfare benefits, education, migration – are also inextricably linked with the labour market. Labour economics helps us to gain a better understanding of these issues and the trade-offs faced by policy makers in trying to address them. The course is divided into 11 substantive topics as follows: an introduction to the labour market; labour supply; labour demand; compensating wage differentials; human capital; wage inequality; labour mobility; labour market discrimination; incentive pay; unions; unemployment.

  Learning Outcomes

  Knowledge and Understanding
  
  On successful completion of this module, students will have acquired an understanding of:
  
  • The theory and reach of labour economics;
  • How to apply relevant theory to a variety of labour market and social policy issues and contexts;
  • How quantitative methods can be used to analyse labour market and social policy issues;
  • How to critically evaluate the application of models and methods in labour economics to labour market and social policy issues.
  
  This module also provides opportunities for the student to acquire or enhance the following subject-specific skills:
  
  • The ability to construct arguments and exercise problem solving skills in the context of labour economics theory and its application;
  • The ability to comprehend and evaluate academic and policy literature related to labour economics and social policy;
  • The ability to construct, interpret and critically evaluate models of behaviour in labour economics;
  • The ability to apply economic models and concepts to real world questions;
  • The ability to understand, evaluate and commentate on economic and social policy;
  
  In addition, this module provides opportunities for the student to acquire or enhance the following cognitive and transferable skills:
  
  • Problem solving
  • Logical reasoning
  • Independent enquiry
  • Critical evaluation and interpretation
  • Self-assessment and reflection
  • Synthesising information from a variety of sources
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Organisation and time management

  Skills

  An understanding of the employment relationship and labour market economics.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO3019

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  Yes

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Gender and Politics (20 credits)

  ×

  Gender and Politics

  Overview

  This module introduces students to the centrality of gender and sexuality in shaping political dynamics at the local, national and global level. It approaches the topic from three perspectives - feminist political thought; strategies for political mobilization and change; and the relevance of gender in international affairs. The module aims to offer an introduction to the contribution of feminist intersectional scholarship in challenging understandings of politics and international relations as gender-neutral and draws attention to the, often neglected, experiences, agency and political claims of gender minorities. It considers key contemporary issues such as intersectionality and feminist politics, sexuality and reproductive justice; social movements and anti-gender politics; war, peace and security; climate change and the politics of global crises.
  Lectures will chart the development of feminism in its diverse ideological strands and ‘waves’.
  Students will have the opportunity to discuss theoretical perspectives and empirical examples as entry points to the gendered complexities of global politics.

  Learning Outcomes

  To provide a political perspective on gender; to clarify the diversity of feminist thought; to analyse and explain the causes of women's inequality in the public and private realms; and to provide an understanding of the inequalities confronting women.

  Skills

  The ability to comprehend the politics of sex and gender in an historical and theoretical framework; to develop a political perspective on gender; to debate positions; to engage in small group activity; to improve oral presentation and essay-writing skills.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3008

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Earth, Energy, Ethics and Economy: The Politics of Unsustainability (20 credits)

  ×

  Earth, Energy, Ethics and Economy: The Politics of Unsustainability

  Overview

  The continuing problematic relationship between key dynamics of modern economic and social systems and the non-human world is one of the most pressing issues of the 21st century and will continue shape the political agenda both nationally and globally. This module will examine some of the key debates of the politics of sustainable development, including: green ethical and political theory; the role of the environment and nature in political theorising; the economic and policy alternatives to unsustainable development and the normative underpinnings of a sustainable society.

  Learning Outcomes

  Upon completion of this module students will: Have a firm understanding of the key ethical, political and economic dimensions of green theory Be able to identify and understand the varieties of schools of thinking with green theory. Have a firm understanding of sustainable development; Be able to relate green theory to the politics of sustainable development; Be able to relate green political theory to other schools of thought within contemporary political theory; Be able to articulate and defend their own understandings of both green political theory and sustainable development; Be able to relate the empirical and scientific arguments and debates about sustainable development to normative theorising about sustainable development; Be able to defend and explain interdisciplinary methodological approaches to the study of sustainable development

  Skills

  Knowledge of the main issues, thinkers, schools of thought and debates within green political and ethical theory; knowledge of the political, economic and ethical dimensions of debates about sustainable development; ability for independent research and study; critical, analytical and independent thinking; presenting informed arguments in class; critical independent and reasoned judgement and assessment and appreciation of the arguments of others; awareness and appreciation of the complexities and nuances of different normative positions; relating the issues, thinkers and schools of thought covered in this module to other modules that students have done in Politics or other pathways.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3026

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Politics of the Global Economy (20 credits)

  ×

  Politics of the Global Economy

  Overview

  This module examines how politics conceived as relations between governments and with and between various socio-economic interests and groups shapes the global economy and the power relations it represents. Various issues addressed in the module include: how to think about power and authority in the global economy; contrasting national models of capitalism; the United States as a global economic hegemon in the post 9/11 era; the political economy of the rise of BRIC; the Doha Round of trade talks; Credit Crunch (causes, implications and responses); the geo-politics of currency rivalry; the global governance of oil; and a new global economic order to replace the old order?

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of this module, students will:
  
  Students will understand the importance of politics and the role of power in the global economy.
  
  Students will be able to debate a range of contemporary global economic issues with reference to the relevant academic literature.
  
  Students will have an appreciation and understanding of some of the key policy issues to be faced in the management of the global economy, the theoretical and normative debates surrounding them and the trade offs they entail.
  
  Students will be able to communicate ideas concisely and coherently in written and oral form.
  
  Students will be able to pursue intellectual questions in a rigorous and academic manner, based on analytical and critical thinking.

  Skills

  Students will be able to communicate ideas to others in coherent and concise, written and oral form;
  
  Students will be able to think analytically, critically and logically about a range of important contemporary social issues.
  
  Students will have the capacity to identify many of the key causes, strategies and motivations of contemporary global economic trends and developments.

  Coursework

  90%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  10%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PAI3063

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Applied Ethics (20 credits)

  ×

  Applied Ethics

  Overview

  This module explores some of the major issues in contemporary applied ethics. The precise themes discussed may vary from year to year, but examples of topics which may be discussed include: the badness of death, the wrongness of killing, abortion, euthanasia, population ethics, genetic engineering, climate ethics, and intergenerational justice.

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module, students should have an understanding of some of the main arguments in contemporary applied ethics and their relation to normative theories, such as consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics. They should also an appreciation of the bearing of such issues on current legal and social practice.

  Skills

  This module nurtures skills such as the careful reading of texts, the ability to explain and summarize the views of others, the ability to think dispassionately about issues on which one may already have preconceptions, the ability to develop (both orally and on paper) arguments of one's own, the willingness to engage in discussion with others in a tolerant and constructive manner.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL3064

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Dissertation PPE (40 credits)

  ×

  Dissertation PPE

  Overview

  The dissertation is a research project that the student develops, designs and implements. There is a Dissertation Synopsis of approximately 700 words and the end product is a substantial piece of written work of 12,000 words on a topic that has been agreed between the student and his/her supervisor. In the case of students on the PPE programme this should involve an area of study that entails engagement with literature from at least two of the disciplines of politics, philosophy or economics, or should be in an area of interdisciplinary overlap such as political philosophy, or political economy, subject to agreement with the prospective supervisor and the programme convenor.

  Learning Outcomes

  By the end of the dissertation, students will be able to: (a) develop a sustained argument, test a hypothesis, and/or write an original narrative; (b) carry out research including finding appropriate sources of information for the topic in question; (c) review appropriate theories for the topic; (d) appreciate some of the ways in which at least two of the following disciplines, politics, philosophy, economics, inter-relate and or complement one another.

  Skills

  Students participate in a workshop prior to registering for the dissertation, which focuses on how to formulate a dissertation question, how to research the dissertation and how to organise and write the dissertation. Further consultation and skills development with individual advisors. A further workshop is held at the start of semester of the student’s final year. During the course of the dissertation students should acquire the ability to make linkages between literatures in different but related disciplines through simultaneous engagement with those literatures.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  40

  Module Code

  PAI3090

  Teaching Period

  Full Year

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Public Economics (20 credits)

  ×

  Public Economics

  Overview

  The module concentrates on public expenditure and taxation issues. Following a review of the welfare basis for government intervention, the expenditure section focuses on public goods, externalities, public choice, equity and efficiency aspects of health care and education provision, and fiscal federalism. The taxation section considers issues of tax incidence and the effects of taxation on savings and labour supply. The optimal (direct and indirect) tax literature is reviewed.

  Learning Outcomes

  To develop the skills appropriate to an economic analysis of the role, and the effects of the government in market economies such as the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Students will be introduced to the concepts of economic efficiency and social justice and to the development of a framework which attempts to explain why the state produces and/or allocates some goods but leaves others to the private market. Furthermore students will be introduced to the theoretical and empirical issues of positive and optimal taxation.

  Skills

  The module will build on and reinforce the analytical skills of students and encourage them to think critically about the role of government in the economy.

  Coursework

  30%

  Examination

  70%

  Practical

  0%

  Stage/Level

  3

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  ECO3012

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional