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IR3083   Foreign Policy Analysis

Academic year(s): 2026-2027

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: To be confirmed

This module covers the research, concepts, and current issues in the area of foreign policy analysis -- an identifiable, research active, and policy-relevant subfield within the study of international relations. Research in this area is designed to answer the question: Why do states (and other actors) do what they do in international politics? The module is organized in a "levels of analysis" framework– from outside, ‘external’ approaches associated with general international relations theories, to ‘inside’ sources of culture public opinion, governmental structures, and leader decision-making. The module highlights how domestic-political and policy-making processes influence states’ foreign affairs. The emphasis in the course is on theories of and conceptual approaches to foreign policy, although students will also be exposed to the substance and content of the foreign policies of various countries. This module is delivered in a discussion-style seminar format.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2005 and pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 seminar (X10/11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 25

Guided independent study hours: 260

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor J B Kaarbo
Module teaching staff: Prof Juliet Kaarbo
Module coordinator email Kaarbo@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

  • comprehensively understand the study of foreign policy
  • master theoretical foundations to explain foreign policy across states and in comparative perspective
  • appreciate methodological issues in the study of foreign policy
  • assess the relationship between foreign policy analysis and the study of international relations and politics
  • better critically evaluate research and investigate empirical phenomena