BA International Relations and Politics (L290)
- Course Code UNU1L290301
- Duration 3 Years
- Attendance Full Time
- Award Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- Overview
- Why Choose Us
- Requirements
- Course Profile
- Fees and Funding
- Apply
Some of the most important political debates are those about international relations. Is it right to intervene in the politics of other countries? How ought we to respond to the threat of global warming? Is America too powerful? How big a threat is international terrorism? What should be done to improve international security? How much power do multinational corporations have? Are global media institutions, such as CNN, shaping foreign policy?
These are the sort of questions that arise when studying a course such as International Relations and Politics. It allows you to think about and explore the causes of conflict – in the Middle East, for example - and to assess attempts to resolve it.
This course, in short, gives you the opportunity to study those forces and issues which are shaping the contemporary world.
Shape of the course: The first year is structured so as to ensure that study and other key skills are acquired to enable students to benefit most fully from the rest of the course. Firm foundations of knowledge are laid in respect of political theory, government and international relations and modern history. The programme in the second and third year is designed to draw upon a range of units in the areas of international relations and politics offered in the schools of Political, Social and International Studies. Students also have the opportunity to take relevant units in the School of American Studies and the School of History. The second year units, “International Politics since 1945”, and “Democratic Theory” are compulsory and these are designed to provide a core foundation of knowledge of the international system since the Second World War and in the main traditions in the history of democratic thought. Otherwise in the second year, students choose with the assistance of their adviser, the Programme Director, two optional units in politics and two free choice units. All these are 20 credit units.
In the third year students take a compulsory dissertation unit where they choose a subject relating to international relations and/or politics. This unit includes some basic training in research methods and students also receive one-to-one individual supervision relating to their topics. A further ninety credits are taken from a range of specialist options within the School.
Examples of units: Introduction to International Relations Politics in the USA, International Organisations American Foreign Policy, International Security and Conflict Resolution, International Relations, Britain and Europe, Politics and Mass Media, The Clash of Fundamentalisms: Religion and International Relations and Policy-Making in Britain Power over the Pacific.
The Student Experience Survey ranks UEA third in the country - two places higher than last year's result and overtaking both Oxford and Cambridge... Read More >
The School of Political Social and International Studies (PSI) specialises in teaching and research in politics, international relations, media and culture.
We offer a wide range of courses that allow you to explore the politics of different countries and regions – for example, Russia, South-east Asia, the United States, Europe and Australia and, of course, the United Kingdom. You can learn about the key power-holders, about how parties compete to influence the public and how policies are made. Some of our students experience life in the lobby at first hand through the parliamentary internship scheme.
In the international arena there are modules dealing with security, terrorism, American foreign policy, fundamentalism, environmental issues and international players such as the United Nations. A module on the history of world politics since 1945 helps you understand how we arrived at 21st-century global patterns of power.
We offer a distinctive range of degrees specialising in media, culture and politics where topics covered may include mass media, political blogs, popular culture, new media, political marketing and 'practical media’, which enables students to make their own news documentary.
All our degrees give you opportunities to take modules from other UEA Schools which are selected to fit in with our degree programmes. Each degree includes the option of a 'free choice’ module taken from another School.
- A Level ABB
- International Baccalaureate 32
- Scottish Advanced Highers ABB
- Irish Leaving Certificate AABBBB
- Access Course Please contact us for more information
- HND Please contact us for more information
- European Baccalaureate 77%
If English is not your first language you must have a recognised English Language qualification:
Minimum IELTS 6.5 with a 6 in reading and writing
Minimum TOEFL 585 (240 on the IBT)
Minimum Grade C in UCLES Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
If you do not meet the academic and or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Humanities and Law
International Foundation in Computing with Business
The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.
Deferred Entry
We welcome applications for deferred entry, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.
Students are required have Mathematics and English at Grade C or above at GCSE Level.
Key skills, issues and ideas are introduced in lectures given by all members of faculty. More specialist study is undertaken in small group seminars. These are chosen from a range offered within the School and across the University. You will also spend time studying and researching in the library or carrying out practical work or projects. In most subject areas, you are assessed at the end of each year on the basis of coursework and, in some cases, project and examination results. In your final year, you will write a dissertation on a topic of your choice and with the advice of tutors. There is no final examination. Your final degree result is determined by the marks you receive in years two and three.
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
Year 1
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Global Politics 1
This module introduces students to the study of global politics. It outlines the architecture, actors and history of the international system. It introduces students to the core theoretical approaches to understanding the dynamics of global politics, such as Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism and Critical Perspectives. It also introduces a number of core concepts for making sense of global politics, including sovereignty, the balance of power, international law, security and globalization.
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PSI-1A11 | 20 | Semester 1 |
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Global Politics 2
This module focuses on particular controversies and debates within contemporary global politics. It can be taken as a stand-alone module, and it also builds upon the conceptual frameworks of Global Politics I. It takes in debates related to security and power, such as US decline, the rise of China, and nuclear proliferation. It looks at transnational problems such as global governance, the global environment and global poverty. It engages with ethical debates and controversies surrounding the transformation of the international system, such as the future of the EU, humanitarian intervention, democratization and the transformation of the state and political community.
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PSI-1A10 | 20 | Semester 2 |
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Introduction to Contemporary Politics
This module introduces students to some of the key contemporary debates and issues in the disciplines of Politics and International Relations. The central theme of the module is liberal democracy, its nature, scope and potential strengths and weaknesses. We consider forces which have had an impact upon western liberal democracy ' such as globalisation and the media ' and examine case studies which illustrate the success and failure of liberal democracy in practice. The case studies change from year to year, but currently include Weimar Germany, Northern Ireland, Britain and the Middle East.
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PSI-1A02 | 20 | Semester 2 |
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Social and Political Theory
This module introduces students to the fundamentals of modern social and political thought by means of in-depth study of key texts by leading thinkers of the nineteenth and twentieth century. An emphasis is placed on classical social theory and liberal political theory as well as more recent departures from those traditions. Students will have an opportunity to read and discuss major works of social theory by Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Pierre Bourdieu, and of political theory by J. S. Mill, John Rawls, Robert Nozick, and Iris Marion Young.
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PSI-1A01 | 20 | Semester 1 |
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Economics and Society
In this module we consider the following questions: What is people's motivation and behaviour when they make choices? What are the behavioural and cognitive biases, and non-economic considerations that influence people when they make important economic decisions? Do these biases justify government's intervention (nudges)? When is rational to follow the crowd? When can humans co-operate successfully? What do we mean by fairness? How should we measure happiness? What are the economic factors that determine people's happiness? What insights can recent research from the field of `behavioural economics' give?
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ECO-1A08 | 20 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Introduction to Modern History
This module provides a wide-ranging introduction to the political, social and economic transformation of Britain and Europe from the early nineteenth century to the First World War. Among the themes it considers are industrialisation and its impact; revolution and reform; nationalism and imperialism; gender and society; great power relations; the impact of war and the collapse of the old Europe in 1917-18.
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HIS-1A19 | 20 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Media, Society and Power
This module introduces first year students to the main theories of mass communications and provides them with the key skills of academic reading and writing. Students will reflect on the importance of reading for academic research and learn how to assess and discuss the relevance and impact of milestones in mass communications theory from the nineteenth century to the present. The module explores theoretical approaches to media content, production, regulation and reception, including key themes such as freedom of speech, public sphere and political economy.
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PSI-1A09 | 20 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Philosophical Problems
The module offers a problem-focused introduction to philosophy, which requires no prior knowledge of the subject. The course presents core problems from different areas of philosophy and some first techniques for analysing philosophical problems. The module explores a series of subtly related issues: problems about scepticism, the possibility of knowledge, induction and causation, functionalism and the mind, language, morality and issues in political philosophy. The module presents different techniques of philosophical analysis by demonstrating their application to these problems. This includes basic techniques of logical, conceptual, and diagnostic analysis. The module is taught annually.
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PHI-1A03 | 20 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Understanding Media Cultures
This module introduces first year students to the main theories of cultural studies and explores how they have been applied in empirical research. Students will discuss the relevance and impact of key thinkers, such as S Hall, R. Williams and P. Bourdieu and will learn how to apply the key principles of methodological tools, such as ethnography, semiotics and quantitative content analysis. The aim is to engage students with original, seminal texts which will allow them to understand the social and political importance of culture within society and to encourage them to engage actively in the academic research environment.
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PSI-1A08 | 20 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Year 2
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Building Blocks of Political Science
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the key theoretical issues and debates that underpin the discipline of political science so that students understand the main methodological and ideological approaches to political science. It will also be of relevance to international relations students. The module will provide important foundations for the remainder of the politics major degree. It will be one of two compulsory modules for single honours Politics students. The first half of the module will focus on meta-theoretical concerns such as how to compare political phenomena and systems, ideas and material explanation, structure and agency, epistemology and ontology. The second part of the module will be concerned with the way in which these issues inform empirical political analysis. It covers the key empirical debates in political science about power, representation, accountability and policy making in the western democracies.
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PSI-2A48 | 20 | Semester 2 |
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International Relations Theory
This module will give students an essential grounding in International Relations theory, that is, the different ways we understand and predict international politics. The module is structured around the positivist/post-positivist divide and starts with classical realism and neo-realism, and liberalism and neo-liberalism. It then explores constructivism before turning to more critical theories like post-colonialism, feminism and gender studies, and Marxism. By the end of the module you will design your own IR theory. The module will be taught predominantly using letures and seminars but will make use, where appropriate, of film and documentaries in order to explore different theoretical schools, both thermatically and empirically.
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PSI-2A47 | 20 | Semester 1 |
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Comparative Politics
The aim of this module is to enable students to develop understanding of political systems in advanced Western states. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate:
- critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of political systems and their comparison
- knowledge of national political systems and their institutional dynamics, political processes and debates concerning the emergence of new political regimes, the politics of territory, parties and party systems, political leadership, legislatures, interest groups, the state and public policy, and identity and citizenship;
- critical awareness of current debates in comparative politics
- key skills, including critical evaluation, analytical investigation, written presentation, and oral communication
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PSI-2A45 | 20 | Semester 1 |
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Democratic Theory
This module considers how the concept of democracy has changed since it originated in ancient Greece and looks at the critiques of democracy advanced by its opponents. The ideas and values underpinning democracy will be examined. The first part of the module focuses on texts by the major democratic thinkers including Locke, Rousseau and Mill. The second part concentrates on contemporary theories of democracy and examines the problems which democracy currently faces and evaluates the solutions proposed, including "electronic democracy" and "cosmopolitan democracy".
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PSI-2A24 | 20 | Semester 2 |
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International Organisations
There are few areas of international politics which remain unregulated by international organisations or international norms. This module examines the historical development of international organizations and regimes, including the UN, NATO, European Union, International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. It looks at why sovereign states decide to establish international organizations, the factors which determine their design and evolution, and the extent to which their operation reflects underlying power and interests. It critically evaluates the main theories to explain cooperation between states and the development of international institutions, examines the role played in security, trade, finance, gender and environmental policy, and asks whether global governance is possible.
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PSI-2A30 | 20 | Semester 2 |
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International Politics Since 1945
This module provides a brief historical and theoretical review of the cold war. It then goes on to look at some of the key issues of the post-cold war world. How far have international relations changed since the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989? What are the prospects for peace, stability and prosperity now that the ideological and military struggle between the USSR and the USA is over?
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PSI-2A07 | 20 | Semester 1 |
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America and Vietnam
This module examines the involvement of the United States in Vietnam, from the Second World War to the Paris Peace Accords of 1973. Focusing on the main period of US entanglement, 1963-1973, it uses documents, historical studies, film, and literary texts to illuminate the American experience in Vietnam and its domestic repercussions.
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AMSA2H01 | 20 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Contemporary US Foreign Policy and International Affairs
The aim of this module is to introduce students to issues in recent American foreign policy for the most part since the end of the Cold War, though with some reference where appropriate to earlier periods and events. We also examine institutional and political processes in policy-making. The module draws on the disciplines of history, political science and international relations to develop historical awareness along with an understanding of the workings of American political institutions in their international context.
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AMSA2H41 | 20 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Race and Racism in the USA
This seminar will explore the origins and continued role in American culture of the idea of race. Where did the concept of race come from? And to what uses has it been put by various groups within America's pluralistic society? Restricted to students on programmes in American History or Literature, or who have previously done modules on race. Not available to first year students.
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AMSA2H32 | 20 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Twentieth-Century Britain, 1914 to the Present
This module offers an in-depth history of Britain from the Great War to the present day, both through the study of political life and also by assessing the impact of economic, social and cultural change. There are opportunities to re-evaluate issues such as the impact of war on society, `landmark' General Elections such as those of 1945 and 1979, the rise of consumer society, post-colonialism, the sexual revolution, the politics of immigration, unrest in Northern Ireland, as well as Britain's changing role in the world.
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HISH2G01 | 20 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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War and Peace Since 1945
This module analyses the use and non-use of force in inter-state relations. It first asks why wars occur between states and examines the political, legal and ethical constraints on military action. We then consider peaceful alternatives and civil society. The themes include: the causes of wars; the history of warfare; the Cold War; nuclear strategy and arms control; the laws of war; peace theories; UN peacekeeping; disarmament, and non-violent resistance
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HISH2G02 | 20 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Year 3
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British Intelligence in the 20th Century - Myth and Reality
The study of intelligence history has seen considerable growth over the last 20 years, as a result of new archival evidence and above all a growing realisation that intelligence has for long been the "missing dimension" in historical interpretation of 20th century diplomacy, defence policy and strategy and in the operational history of two world wars. A consideration of the impact of intelligence assessment, its acceptance (or rejection) and its proponents has well known areas of historical analysis, particularly in the period from the 1930s to the Cold War. The aim of this module is to examine the current historiography of this "missing dimension" and assess its impact in the interpretation of British strategic and defence policy and to some extent, in internal and imperial security as well as considering popular and fictional interpretations of the intelligence service.
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HISH3F96C | 30 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Chamberlain, Churchill and Appeasement, 1935-1940
Britain's response to the aggression of the fascist powers in the inter-war period has been the subject of fierce debate for decades, and is still hotly disputed between historians. This module examines British foreign policy in the era of 'appeasement'. It will focus on the period between 1935 and 1940, analysing a range of primary source material in detail. It will explore the role of key policy-makers, their critics, and the domestic context in which policy was constructed.
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HISH3G13C | 30 | Semester 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dissertation Module
This dissertation module gives students the opportunity to undertake research on a project of their own choosing under the supervision of a member of staff. The goal is to produce an extended essay of between 7,000-8,000 words, which relates in-depth research on a specialist topic to wider issues in politics, sociology and international studies. A limited number of parliamentary internships and an advertising
internship are also available as part of this module. The only timetabled contact time is an introductory lecture from the module convenor. Thereafter, it is up to you to arrange meetings with your supervisor after s/he has been allocated.
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PSI-3A0Y | 30 | Year Period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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European Studies (With Brussels Internship)
This is an intensive module for ambitious students who are a national of an EEA member state (i.e. UK and other EU countries, plus Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein ) who demonstrate drive, and commitment to wanting to work at the international level, have some prior knowledge of how the EU works, and a basic knowledge of another language of the EEA. It will provide insights into the operation of the EU, facilitiate e networking and the follow up of job opportunities. There will be 10 two hour seminars during the Spring Semester and a four week period in Brussels (or elsewhere if placements can be established). Currently, there are a number of placements available at the East of England office in Brussels, which represents the interests of the region. A substantial contribution will be made towards the costs of accommodation and travel.
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PSI-3A72 | 30 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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US Interventionism, the Cia and Covert Action
The covert activities of the CIA represent arguably the most notorious face of US foreign relations. Yet to what extent is clandestine American interventionism consistent with official overt policies? And how do we come to understand covert action campaigns? This module will introduce the main conceptual and historic debates relevant to the analysis of covert action as a tool of US foreign relations. In so doing it will consider the institutions and processes behind covert action, especially the role of the CIA. It also considers the mediums that narrate and explain American covert action. This will provide a fuller and richer understanding of the United States' place in the international system since World War II, its relationship to other states and non-state actors, and discussions about American identity and the nation's role in the world.
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AMSA3H26 | 30 | Semester 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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PSI-3
Analysing Media DiscoursesThis module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A41 Analysing Media Discourses. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...
PSI-3A43 20 Semester 1 Analysing Media DiscoursesThe module will explore some of the main approaches to the analysis of media texts including structuralism, psychoanalysis and discourse analysis. These approaches will be discussed in relation to films like James Bond, advertising campaigns like the ones by the United Colors of Benetton, and newspaper articles on current affairs. The aim of the module is to bring together theory and hands-on analysis and research in media products. more...PSI-3A41 30 Semester 1 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle EastThis module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A53 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle East. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A55 20 Semester 1 Better Worlds? Utopias and DystopiasThis module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A08 Better Worlds? Utopias and Dystopias. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A24 20 Semester 2 MulticulturalismThis module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A38 Multiculturalism. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A40 20 Semester 2 Power Over the Pacific: the American Relationship With AsiaThis module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A29 POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non HUM Students. more...PSI-3A31 20 Semester 1 Australia: Politics, Culture, SocietyThis module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A12 Australia: Politics, Culture, Society. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A28 20 Semester 2 Power Over the Pacific: the American Relationship With AsiaThis module will introduce important themes in the American relationship with East Asia, at a time when the Pacific region has assumed great importance. There will be a particular focus on the important historical periods in the American relationship with China and Japan. An understanding of elements of the trajectory of these relationships will be provided by taking a selection of historical subjects for analysis. While this will address the knowledge of history, and of long-term themes, the latter part of the module will consider contemporary political issues. This will require an understanding of the interaction of the United States with Asia, and China and Japan in particular. more...PSI-3A29 30 Semester 1 Dissertation ModuleThis dissertation module gives students the opportunity to undertake research on a project of their own choosing under the supervision of a member of staff. The goal is to produce an extended essay of between 7,000-8,000 words, which relates in-depth research on a specialist topic to wider issues in politics, sociology and international studies. A limited number of parliamentary internships and an advertising internship are also available as part of this module. The only timetabled contact time is an introductory lecture from the module convenor. Thereafter, it is up to you to arrange meetings with your supervisor after s/he has been allocated. more...PSI-3A0Y 30 Year Period Better Worlds? Utopias and DystopiasWould an ideal society have no more crime? Who would be wealthy? Would politics be outlawed? Do utopians wish to impose their views on the rest of us? This module explores questions such as these, which are central to political and social theory, through the prism of selected utopian and dystopian novels and other utopian texts ranging from Thomas More's Utopia (1516) to the present. It focuses on themes such as property, social control, gender, work, the environment and politics. A major question which the module addresses is the political significance and effects of utopian ideas ' often derided as frivolous or impractical in their own time - and the historical role of utopian ideas in political theory and social reform. more...PSI-3A08 30 Semester 2 Western Political ThoughtThis Level 3 module examines in depth the works of selected thinkers who are seminal to the Western tradition of political thought, including Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Marx. Their work will also be compared thematically, with a focus on ideas such as political obligation, authority, the state and freedom. The module will be based on the study and interpretation of key texts and will enable students to develop skills of textual analysis and critique. more...PSI-3A01 30 Semester 1 Western Political ThoughtThis module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A01 Western and Political Thought. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A17 20 Semester 1 Australia: Politics, Culture, SocietyThis module examines the history, structures and key institutions of Australian government and their broader relationships with Australian society and culture. It has been argued Australia was manacled to its colonial past, and lacked innovation and proactivity. At the same time, the phrase, 'lucky country', has been used to project Australia as uniquely stable, politically, socially, and economically. Is this accurate? Some think so, attributing it to Australia's system of government: are they right? This module addresses such questions and, in its later stages, considers some of the challenges Australia faces, both internal such as multiculturalism and Aboriginality, and external, for example, regionalisation and globalisation. more...PSI-3A12 30 Semester 2 Political Economy of the EnvironmentThis module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A44 Political Economy of the Environment. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A46 20 Semester 2 Political Economy of the EnvironmentIn an attempt to better understand the environmental dilemmas that confront us in the contemporary world, this module tries to move beyond the limitations of mainstream political and economic analyses. In coming to terms with the threats of environmental degradation and climate change, it tries to reawaken a broader type of ethical, natural and social theorisation that defined an earlier political economy. This is not a module on environmental or resource economics, nor are students expected to have an economics background. Rather, this module tries to understand social production as much more than a series of market relations. It tries to develop a broader socio-cultural understanding of production that "de-naturalises" the way we view and exploit the natural world. more...PSI-3A44 30 Semester 2 Public Affairs and Politics: Influencing the Political ProcessThis module enables students to understand the theory and practice of public affairs, interest intermediation, and the strategies used by interest and advocacy groups to influence the political process. As well as covering the main debates in the academic literature, it draws directly on the experience of practitioners and offers unique insights into this under-studied area of politics. Students graduating from this module will: ' be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts of public affairs ' be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts applied in the study of interest intermediation and lobbying ' be able to demonstrate knowledge of public affairs and lobbying in a variety of political settings ' have developed important key skills, including making oral presentations, that will be of use in employment. Indicative outline 1. Introduction. Public affairs: influencing the political process 2. Making policy: processes and decision points 3. Lobbyists, interest and advocacy groups 4. The art of public relations 5. Communications and marketing 6. Public affairs and the media 7. Influencing the political process I: Whitehall 8. Influencing the political process II: Westminster 9. Influencing the political process III: Brussels 10. Influencing the political process IV: Washington 11. Influencing the political process V: local government more...PSI-3A78 30 Semester 2 The Clash of FundamentalismsThis module examines the resurgence of religion as an issue in international relations. IR literature has tended to marginalise religion but the events of 9/11 and the growth of fundamentalism is refocusing attention on this important area. Using case studies this module critically analyses religion and international relations. more...PSI-3A57 30 Semester 1 Capitalism and Its CriticsThe aim of this module is to enable students to develop an understanding of capitalism and its political and social impact. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of capitalism - critical understanding of normative debates about capitalism - knowledge of the arguments made by advocates and critics of capitalism, with an awareness of their strengths and weaknesses more...PSI-3A52 30 Semester 2 Capitalism and Its CriticsThis module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A52 Capitalism and its Critics. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A54 20 Semester 2 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle EastThis module seeks to expand the knowledge and understanding of the contemporary politics of the Middle East acquired by students taking PSI-2A46. A main feature of this module is to allow students to delve into the complexities of political thought in the region. The aim of the module is to make students think critically about the ways in which political mobilisation functions in the modern Middle East. For this purpose the module will feature many examples of contemporary political ideologies that have constituted key political frameworks in the politics of the Middle East since the First World War. more...PSI-3A53 30 Semester 1 Political CommunicationThis module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A10 POLITICAL COMMUNICATION and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. Political communication occurs on many different levels, and subsequently with different implications and effects. Political communication can be verbal or nonverbal by political actors or about political actors and systems. This module builds upon the Politics and Mass Media unit and explores the forms and impact of political communication. It will be organised around the themes of who communicates, whether that is the state, celebrities, media organisations, the message they communicate, and the effect this has on the receivers of the message. The module will address areas such as spin, globalisation, the role of the new media in order to explore the changing nature of political communication. more...PSI-3A26 20 Semester 2 We the People? Publics, Crowds and DemocracyIN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE PSI-3A84. This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A84 We the People? Publics, Crowds and Democracy. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON-HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A86 20 Semester 2 Rhetoric: Democracy and the Politics of PersuasionPolitical activity involves a lot of talking, discussing and debating, speechifying, speaking and listening. In Parliaments, from public platforms and through many forms of media people try to persuade others to see things their way, to take their side and to adopt their proposals. Naturally, therefore, the form, function and implications of different forms of public argument are an important concern of political theorists and scientists. This course will explore some contemporary theorists who, in different ways, help us think through the politics of public speech and persuasion (Arendt, Dryzek, Laclau, Ranciere and others). It will also introduce you to the rhetorical tradition. Rhetoric, according to Aristotle, is 'the ability to identify in any given case the available means of persuasion". In studying political rhetoric we learn about the different ways in which political arguments may be made and about how we might try to persuade particular people, about particular things at particular times. more...PSI-3A59 30 Semester 1 We the People? Publics, Crowds and DemocracyThis module examines the position of mass publics and collectives in democratic society, taking into consideration models of collective behaviour and some of the available empirical evidence. The module is all about the relationship between the individual and the group: how does that relationship work in different contexts, and what are the consequences for the democratic character of governance and the rationality or otherwise of collective decisions? Liberal theory has an ambiguous attitude to the `public', portraying it as a source of legitimacy but also as a threatening and unreasoning force. We explore these issues in a variety of contexts: mass political movements, public opinion surveys, un-coordinated mass action such as moral panics and health scares, arts prize juries and political executives. We also look at whether mass publics can be manipulated and steered by the rhetoric of `leaders' and by biases in the information environment. more...PSI-3A84 30 Semester 2 Political CommunicationThis module looks behind the headlines about politics and analyses the processes by which those headlines are created. It encourages students to think about the way in which we engage with politics. Are we being persuaded about our politics or are we being subject to propaganda? Is war only what we see on our TV screens or read about in the newspaper? Do politicians have to be telegenic to be elected? Does it matter if our only source of news is via the internet? Can new media really been seen as the cause of revolution? These are just some of the questions which we might discuss. This module also links together processes of politics and communication to ask some of the `big' political questions of the day: what is being communicated politically to us, by whom, and why? What methods do elites use to communicate to us? And how do we as citizens communicate politically to elites? And what impact does that communication have on our politics? Centred around issues of ideology and power, and combining theory and empirics, this module asks questions about the nature of politics and communication through a range of topics which may include: election campaigns; spin; war and foreign policy; the political economy of news production; common sense; politics beyond the nation state; and revolution. more...PSI-3A10 30 Semester 2 European Studies (With Brussels Internship)This is an intensive module for ambitious students who are a national of an EEA member state (i.e. UK and other EU countries, plus Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein ) who demonstrate drive, and commitment to wanting to work at the international level, have some prior knowledge of how the EU works, and a basic knowledge of another language of the EEA. It will provide insights into the operation of the EU, facilitiate e networking and the follow up of job opportunities. There will be 10 two hour seminars during the Spring Semester and a four week period in Brussels (or elsewhere if placements can be established). Currently, there are a number of placements available at the East of England office in Brussels, which represents the interests of the region. A substantial contribution will be made towards the costs of accommodation and travel. more...PSI-3A72 30 Semester 2 Politics and Governance With Internship (Work Based Experience/employability Training Programme)The module aims to provide a sound understanding of the `nuts and bolts' of the different levels of government - local, regional, and national, and through the third sector ' and how each contributes to democratic pluralism. It will relate public policy and administration taught in other modules to the organisation and structures of governance and also focus on career and job opportunities, and developing specific skills to enhance employability. Field trips and study visits will complement class-based teaching and `real world' experience will be available through a short internship, other work based learning or an employability training programme to enable students to build a network of contacts, increase confidence, experience and the skills necessary to secure graduate employment. more...PSI-3A80 30 Semester 2 Intellectuals and US Foreign PolicyThis module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A48 Intellectuals and US Foreign Policy, 1880-2008. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. more...PSI-3A50 20 Semester 2 Intellectuals and US Foreign PolicyThis module examines the ideas and influence of nine American foreign policy 'intellectuals,' beginning with Alfred Mahan and concluding with Paul Wolfowitz. Why did each 'intellectual' strike a particular chord at a particular time? Do individuals matter in the history of US foreign policy? How, and with what consequences, were these ideas translated into policy? This module will explore the origins of key US foreign policy concepts such as isolationism, internationalism, containment and 'pre-emptive defence.' Aims of the Module ' To introduce students to nine particular strains of US foreign policy ideology. ' To encourage students to engage critically with the primary output of these 'intellectuals' and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. ' To stimulate students to consider whether these ideas have been manifested in policy, and to trace their impact. ' To encourage students to develop their own foreign policy philosophy. more...PSI-3A48 30 Semester 2 Broadcast JournalismBroadcast Journalism provides students with an overview of the practice of modern TV journalism, and related TV production processes. The module enables students to contextualise academic study and criticism of news gathering and presentation processes as well as gain first-hand experience of producing video news items using modern technology. There is a high level of practical class activity: students will take part in workshop exercises, develop an understanding of the use and importance of pictures, preparing and presenting well-written broadcast scripts and interviews. Students will collaborate in producing short, broadcast-style video news reports, which will be compiled into a magazine format TV programme. There will be an introduction to the 'art' of journalism, the techniques and practices that are used to shape news reports. Students will also be introduced to technical production skills including cameras, sound and editing. Students will be taught by experienced production and news journalists and use broadcast quality equipment. The practical teaching will be reinforced by instruction on the packaging and presentation of news and factual material for broadcasting purposes. more...PSI-3A51 30 Semester 1 Politics and Popular CultureThe module explores three issues: the role of popular culture in political thought and action, the political organisation of, and response to, popular culture, and the political meanings and interpretations placed upon popular culture. more...PSI-3A37 30 Semester 1 Politics and Popular CultureThis module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A37 POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. more...PSI-3A23 20 Semester 1 MulticulturalismThis module looks at the political implications of the rise of multicultural societies in Europe and North America since the end of World War II. (Canada is given consideration because of its importance to these debates both as a practical model as well as a source of influential theorists.) The aim is to introduce students to a range of contemporary theoretical perspectives on multiculturalism and facilitate critical assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of such approaches in the face of competing political discourses such as nationalism and alternative forms of liberalism. Theorists under examination will include; Parekh, Kymlicka, Levy, Taylor and Modood as well as major liberal alternative views; Barry, Rawls and Raz. Among the module themes the following will be addressed; group differentiated rights; institutional racism, Islamophobia, recognition vs toleration and cultural offense. The module will also look at divergent policies adopted within European states (eg: France and Germany) and give attention to the attempts to operationalize multiculturalism in the UK in particular via the Parekh Report. more...PSI-3A38 30 Semester 2
Further information on fees and funding for 2012 can be found here
University Fees and Financial Support: International Students
The University will be charging International students £11,700.00 for all full time School of Political, Social and International Studies undergraduate programmes which start in 2012.
Please click to access further information about fees and funding for International students
Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.
UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.
Further Information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:
Undergraduate Admissions Office (Political, Social and International Studies)
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
Please click here to download the School of Political, Social and International Studies Undergraduate Prospectus or register your details online via our Online Enquiry Form.
International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.


