IR5832
Introduction to War and Strategy
2026-2027
15
7
SCQF level 11
1
Academic year(s): 2026-2027
SCOTCAT credits : 15
ECTS credits : 7
Level : SCQF level 11
Semester: 1
Availability restrictions: Enrolment is limited to students taking MSc Conflict and Security in Policy and Practice
This core module introduces students to key definitions, debates, and paradigms in the study of war and strategy. It seeks to answer a range of core questions: What is war? Where is knowledge about war produced? Does war change? What is the relationship between war and strategy? What is the link between strategy in theory and practice? To address these questions, the module introduces students to different disciplinary approaches to the study of war and strategy, particularly from IR and History. Students will engage with critical approaches to the study of war and strategy, notably gendered and decolonial critiques, and explore the disciplinary status of so-called ‘war studies’. The module also explores the link between theory and practice in war and strategy making. Drawing on empirical case studies and real-world examples, students are invited to reflect on the relationship between war, policy, and strategy, and how that manifests in practice.
Weekly contact: There are no fixed weekly contact hours, but students will take part in asynchronous discussions, and optional synchronous sessions.
Guided independent study hours: 150
As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%
As defined by QAA
Coursework: 100%
Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%
Module coordinator: Dr A E Fox
Module teaching staff: Dr Aimee Fox
Module coordinator email af274@st-andrews.ac.uk