University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 2.00 pm Tue

This module introduces students to international political theory, or the use of ethical, political and legal theory to evaluate various international practices. Unlike IR theory, IPT is primarily normative in orientation, drawing on both the history of ideas and current political and ethical theory to give students tools for evaluating international affairs rather than simply explaining them. It addresses topics such as war, economics, environmental issues, law, and religion.

Relationship to other modules

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

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1 x 1-hour tutorial (x 10 weeks), 2 consultation hours with Coordinator (x 12 weeks). 2 hours examination feedback in week 1 of following semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 46

Guided independent study hours: 254

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 60%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor A Lang
Module teaching staff: Prof Anthony Lang

Intended learning outcomes

• Know how to ask and answer normative questions about global politics.
• Understand the difference between social scientific and philosophical approaches within international relations.
• Be able to debate normative issues in an objective and reasonable way.
• Be able to critically engage texts and ideas in tutorial sessions and written essays.
• Gain research and writing skills appropriate for both synthetic and analytic studies.