University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: Tues 2 - 4pm Wed 10am-12pm

We live, we are told, in an increasingly mobile world, and yet the ability to move is experienced differentially: not everyone has the same access to 'movement' or experiences such movement in the same way. This module explores the relationship between political thought and the complex phenomenon of migration. The first half of the module will focus on understanding how migration has been conceptualised in Political Theory and the kinds of debates that have characterised political theorising about migration, particularly within the tradition of normative political thought. In the second half of the module, we will shift from examining how migration has been thought about in (normative) political theory to examining the impact that migration has on understandings of other core concepts/practices in political theory, including borders, rights, justice, security, and citizenship.

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: 2-hour weekly seminar (x11 weeks), plus office hours.

Scheduled learning hours: 44

Guided independent study hours: 253

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Exam = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr N E G Saunders
Module teaching staff: Dr Natasha Saunders

Intended learning outcomes

• Demonstrate understanding of legal/institutional frameworks governing global migration.
• Demonstrate understanding of core debates in political theory on migration.
• Critically evaluate these debates and the assumptions upon which they rest.
• Articulate how migration can impact the meaning and role of core concepts/ideas in global politics.
• Articulate reasoned and factually supported arguments both orally and in writing.