BA (Hons) International Relations and Modern History

Key details

BA (HONS) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND MODERN HISTORY

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Arts

UCAS course code

LV2C

Entry Requirements

AAB (specific subject requirements apply)

Duration (years)

International relations scholars ask questions about how the world works today. Historians look to the past to make sense of the present. When studied together, these complementary disciplines can give you the fullest understanding of global politics: past, present and future.

Our BA International Relations and Modern History is ranked 10th for History by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.

About

On this course, you’ll explore current global political events, connections and decisions. At the same time, you’ll establish a ‘long view’ of the events and processes that have given rise to these current situations. You’ll come to understand how things that happen in one place can have major consequences for people and communities living on the other side of the world. You’ll become familiar with the vast range of actors involved, from states and their governments to stateless organisations such as Greenpeace or Al Qaeda, to international bodies such as the European Union and United Nations, to corporations, social classes, diasporas, and even individuals.

Alongside all of this, you’ll examine how the contemporary international system of separate states has roots going back more than three hundred years. You’ll be equipped to make sense of today’s global order, and to debate, argue and think about how it has developed throughout recent history. You’ll have the opportunity to explore how these two disciplines relate to one another, allowing you to gain a fascinating perspective on the world around you today.

The two disciplines of International Relations and History are taught across two Schools at UEA, both of which are renowned for the quality of their teaching and research. In the Times Higher Education Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 Analysis, UEA was ranked 3rd overall in the UK for research quality in History, and 14th overall in the UK for its research quality in Politics and International Studies. During the course, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in study trips, internships and placements in Britain and Europe as well as having the option of a semester abroad in your second year.

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We’re 14th for research quality!

UEA is ranked 14th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research quality in Politics and International Studies

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We’re 3rd for research quality!

UEA is ranked 3rd overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research quality in History.

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What's included in your fees

Explore some of the benefits included as part of your UEA learning package.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

Our assessments are predominantly at the individual level, with some group assessment. These include essays and other written assessment including mini-essays and critical summaries of around 500 words, literature reviews or reading logs.

Structure

Your degree will begin with an overview of the key questions and debates within the disciplines of International Relations and History. You’ll explore different ways of thinking about the world, as well as key issues within global politics, from war, conflict and security through to economic, environmental and social issues. You’ll learn and develop the skills of historians and international relations scholars, and have the chance to think about how they relate to one another.

Teaching and Learning

Throughout your degree, you’ll be taught in a range of environments from traditional lectures through to small-group seminars where you’ll debate your week’s work. Our teaching is focused, interactive, and up-to-date with events around the world. You’ll learn crucial skills such as how to summarise and analyse information, how to develop and criticise arguments, and how to speak in public. At the same time, you’ll learn about the worlds of global politics and history. 

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll learn about the foundations of domestic and global politics, key concepts and topical debates. You’ll learn how to see the world from the perspectives of international relations and history, setting you up for your second year.

Independent Learning
You’ll prepare for your weekly teaching with a series of guided tasks, such as preparing answers to seminar questions, or completing small weekly writing tasks which will help you to develop key study skills. You will also complete longer assessment like essays, presentations and projects.

How you'll spend your time:

Teaching: 25%
Independent Learning: 75%

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Open Days

The Course Director can support 40 credits off profile over the course of your degree. Students of Politics, Philosophy, Language and Communication Studies are able to take one free non-credit module alongside your degree.

Assessment for Year 1

Compulsory Modules

INTRODUCTION TO MODERN HISTORY

Code HIS-4003A

Credits 20

You will gain a wide-ranging introduction to the political, social and economic transformation of Britain and Europe from the late eighteenth century to the First World War. Among the themes, you will consider 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.

GLOBAL POLITICS 1

Code PPLI4056A

Credits 20

Why do we live in a world of nation-states? Why has international politics been riven by repeated war and conflict? Why does the balance of power form and dissolve throughout history? What makes some states more powerful than others? How is political order generated in the absence of a world government? This course will introduce you to core concepts used for understanding the dynamics of global politics, including world order, sovereignty, international anarchy, the balance of power and security. It will provide you with the conceptual language needed to begin your study of global politics.

GLOBAL POLITICS 2

Code PPLI4055B

Credits 20

Global Politics 2 explores the most important controversies and debates in contemporary international politics. Because international politics is constantly changing, we review this module every year, altering the precise mix of topics to reflect the world that you see around you. All of our topics involve questions of power, ethics, transnational cooperation and security. Recently we have explored terrorism, nuclear weapons, our moral obligations to foreigners, as well as migration, the fate of the environment, and emerging powers in the international system.

THE AGE OF EXTREMES: WORLD HISTORY SINCE 1914

Code HIS-4014B

Credits 20

This module conveys the rich complexity of global history, encouraging you to look afresh at the period. In hindsight, the epithet ‘age of extremes’ best describes the contradictory characteristics of a century during which total war and genocide were accompanied by growing humanitarianism, state health care and the advance of human rights. Naturally, developments during the first decades of the twenty-first century have forced historians to reconsider and revise once-accepted narratives about modernization. Just as the trend toward increasing integration, harmonization and homogenization does not seem to have completely destroyed religious hatred, we can question the idea that modernization always resulted in secularization and tolerance. Similarly, the demonstrable power of international finance and supranational assemblies counters narratives of popular empowerment through the triumph of representative democracy. The lectures examine themes in chronological contexts including the impact of war, revolutions, nationalism and nation building, ideologies, ethnicity, communications, decolonisation, science, technology, healthcare, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, consumerism, global poverty, disease, population movements, land uses, urban planning, climate change, natural catastrophes, sport, diet, trade and quality of life.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

MEDIA INDUSTRIES

Code AMAM4028A

Credits 20

As knowledgeable as you may be about certain media products – like your favourite TV programmes, films, songs, video games or websites – how much do you know about the functioning of the industrial contexts from which these typically emerge? It is easy to forget that standing between us and our favourite media products is a complex structure of interpenetrating cultural sectors and organisations. This module will introduce you to some of the core characteristics of the media industries, providing you with a better understanding of how and why they operate in the ways they do. Throughout the module you will come to appreciate the distinctiveness of the media industries and their products, the implications this has for producers and the broader effects implied for the overall structure of these industries. In addition, you’ll learn about the economic and political organisation of the media industries, the policies and regulations to which they are subject, as well as the divisions of labour determined by their modes of organisation. You’ll begin with a consideration of the particular characteristics of media goods and the challenges involved in commodifying and deriving revenues from them. Following this, you will explore issues of ownership, integration and concentration, before we consider such matters as policy and regulation, creative work, digitalisation, convergence and media systems. Having considered examples of specific media organisations, franchises, texts and sectors, you’ll put your new knowledge into practice by developing your own case study project, aimed at explaining the functioning of one aspect of the media landscape. Across the module you will also gain experience in communicating your ideas in seminars as well as through workshop tasks and written work.

BEGINNERS' FRENCH I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4013A

Credits 20

Bonjour, comment ça va? Do you want to understand what this means and how to say it? This module will help you to master basics of French language and communication. This module is perfect for you if you have never studied French before (or have very little experience of it). Throughout the semester, you’ll develop reading, listening, speaking and writing skills at the A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means that you will learn to communicate about yourself and your immediate environment in a set of concrete, everyday situations. You’ll be taught in a very interactive and friendly environment, and will often work in pairs or small groups. Your two-hour seminar will focus on listening, reading and writing skills, while the oral hour will help you to develop your confidence in speaking. We’ll tackle some grammatical notions in class, but always as a means for you to improve your communication skills. You’ll also have opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where French is spoken thanks to the various documents we will use to develop your linguistic skills (songs, podcasts, leaflets…). You’ll be assessed by two course tests: the first will cover listening, reading, and writing skills and the second will cover your speaking skills. On successful completion of this module, you’ll be able to understand and use familiar everyday expressions aimed at both the satisfaction of concrete needs, or those used to describe areas of most immediate relevance. You’ll be able to introduce yourself and others, ask and answer questions about personal details, and interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly.

BEGINNERS' GERMAN I - A1.1 CEFR

Code PPLB4018A

Credits 20

Have you ever wished you could order your mulled wine at the Christmas market in German? How would it feel be to be able to introduce yourself in German or survive a basic conversation in the language? Or do you simply want to understand what makes the Germans, the Austrians, or the Swiss tick? These questions highlight the central learning achieved within this module. Our beginners’ course in German is perfect if you have very little or no prior knowledge of the language. You will gain the confidence to use German in basic conversations as you develop a first understanding of German sounds and essential grammar. You will build up a bank of key vocabulary to survive in real-life situations. You will also gain a greater awareness of German traditions and ways of thinking to help you make sense of a country that is deeply rooted in the heart of Europe. In a relaxed environment you will participate in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and groups to try out and be creative with new sounds, words and phrases. The fun of language learning will never be far away and promises to give you the confidence to make the first steps in German. As well as speaking and listening to each other you will discover the joy of understanding an authentic German text and to write an amazing first paragraph in German. A first course in German will enable you to add a vital skill to your CV. At this crucial political and cultural moment in time the study of the German language and culture will without doubt make you a more attractive graduate and informed global citizen, whatever your specialism or area of interest. Please note that you should not have a level of German that exceeds the level of this course.

BEGINNERS' SPANISH I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4022A

Credits 20

Do you want to learn a new language? Do you want to access the Spanish-speaking world? Are you about to travel through Spain or any Spanish-speaking country in Latin America? Then, it´s the right time to enrol to Beginners´ Spanish I. This module will improve your academic education and will provide you with the confidence to advance towards intermediate and advanced levels. It sounds good, doesn't it? You will develop your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills and you will have the opportunity to receive personal feedback on all your efforts. You will take part in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and/or small groups supporting each other in the process of learning Spanish and engaging with a range of tasks. You will also be able to focus on real life situations as well as the ability to communicate effectively in those situations. There will also be opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where Spanish is currently the main language. Do you want to learn a new language? Do you want to access the Spanish-speaking world? Are you about to travel through Spain or any Spanish-speaking country in Latin America? Then, it´s the right time to enrol to Beginners´ Spanish I. This module will improve your academic education and will provide you with the confidence to advance towards intermediate and advanced levels. It sounds good, doesn't it? You will develop your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills and you will have the opportunity to receive personal feedback on all your efforts. You will take part in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and/or small groups supporting each other in the process of learning Spanish and engaging with a range of tasks. You will also be able to focus on real life situations as well as the ability to communicate effectively in those situations. There will also be opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where Spanish is currently the main language. By the end of this module, you will have the linguistic competence necessary to understand and use common everyday language and simple sentences, to communicate both in writing and verbally. If you have a recent Spanish GCSE grade C or below, or an international equivalent, then this module is appropriate for you.

BEGINNERS' ARABIC I

Code PPLB4029A

Credits 20

This is a most lively, accessible and carefully-paced Arabic course, aimed at beginners with little or no previous knowledge of the language who want to understand, speak and read Arabic confidently. The course is based on the bestselling book series Mastering Arabic 1 : - teaches Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), the universal language of the Arab world - covers a functional variety of situations you will encounter in the Arab world - offers a gradual introduction to the language, script and structures through development of essential speaking, listening, reading and writing skills - some aspects of the Arab world and culture(s) are covered.

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE I

Code PPLB4031A

Credits 20

How would you converse with someone who is deaf? At work? In school? In an emergency? How can you avoid typical faux pas due to ignorance of a different culture? Can a 'signed'/'visual' language 'convey as adequately' as a 'spoken' language? These questions highlight the central learning achieved in this module. This is a course in British Sign Language assuming no prior, or minimal knowledge of the language. Throughout the course you will discover aspects central to the Deaf World and its Culture, and how to communicate through a unique 'visual' language, a language that uses your hands and body to communicate! Teaching and learning strategies involve signed conversation (from early on), role-play, and lots of games and exercises that make a truly 'fun and enjoyable' module to take. You will learn a little about the history of the Deaf and Sign Language itself, and its long battle to be recognised. You will discover how using your body and hands can be an exciting and meaningful way of communicating. You will acquire a wide range of easily usable vocabulary, a deeper look into various features that make the language unique, and very different to spoken languages. On successful completion of this module you will have developed knowledge and skills that will enable you to communicate with a Deaf person. You will be able to take your British Sign Language studies onto the next level, broadening your knowledge and developing further, the skill within this amazing 'Visual' language. Please note that students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the level for which they have enrolled may be asked to withdraw from the module.

BEGINNERS' CHINESE I

Code PPLB4034A

Credits 20

Are you thinking of travelling to China in the future? Could the world's second most spoken language help in your future career? Or maybe you're simply a fan of Chinese cinema... Whichever the case, this total beginner's course in Mandarin Chinese will open the door to simple conversation and help you start to master the deceptively simple Chinese alphabet. Through working with your peers in grammar classes and classroom-based oral seminars covering pinyin (pronunciation), the common tricky sounds, word order, basic sentences, and the spelling rules of hanzi (Chinese characters), you will both build up your vocabulary and come to understand relevant cultural norms. By the end of the module, you will be able to recognise and pronounce pinyin confidently, develop knowledge of basic sentences and understand simple linguistic rules so that you can carry on learning in the future. Please note that students speaking other varieties of Chinese (e.g. Cantonese) are not eligible for this module. Please also note that students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the level for which they have enrolled may be asked to withdraw from the module at the tutor’s discretion. This is a subsidiary language module, and very occasionally, may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment.

BEGINNERS' ITALIAN I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4038A

Credits 20

You already have a smattering of Italian. Think of ‘latte’, ‘panino’ and ‘tiramisu’! Would you like to find out more, learn to pronounce words like ‘bruschetta’ and ‘ciabatta’ correctly? How about learning to get by on holiday or working in Italy, while sampling the abundant cultural and culinary delights? This is a beginners’ course in Italian assuming no prior knowledge of the language or minimal familiarity. You’ll learn to communicate simply but effectively in basic conversations and understand the relevant details of announcements and notices around you. You’ll learn the essential grammar and vocabulary to enable you to express yourself clearly. In the classroom you’ll start talking Italian straight away, often working in pairs and small groups in a mutually supportive environment. The course encourages success by providing thorough coverage of grammar and vocabulary via interesting and relevant contexts. A variety of tasks both in class and for homework will help you to build up new skills and confidence. Regular feedback and advice on learning strategies will lead to a very positive language experience. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to express yourself simply but competently in Italian. The valuable experience of learning another language will pay dividends in other areas of academic and personal life too. Please note that if you are found to have a level of knowledge in a language that exceeds the level for which you have enrolled, you may be asked to withdraw from the module at the tutor’s discretion. Please also note that this is a subsidiary language module. Very occasionally, subsidiary language modules may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment.

BEGINNERS' JAPANESE I

Code PPLB4040A

Credits 20

Do you want to explore Japanese culture or travel to Japan? Would you like to enhance your career opportunities? This is a beginners' course in Japanese assuming little or no prior experience or knowledge of the language. In this module, you'll learn reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. You'll gain the linguistic understanding of a number of real life situations, as well as the ability to communicate effectively in those situations. There will also be opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where Japanese is spoken. Particular emphasis will be placed on your acquisition of a sound knowledge of grammar. Please note that if you are found to have a level of knowledge in a language that exceeds the level for which you have enrolled, you may be asked to withdraw from the module at the tutor's discretion. This is a subsidiary language module, and very occasionally, may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment.

BEGINNERS' RUSSIAN I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4043A

Credits 20

Winston Churchill once said that ‘Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’. Russia gave the world Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Shostakovich, Chagall and borsch! Would you like to know more about the largest country in the world and unwrap some of the mysteries of its history, culture and politics through its language? This is a beginners’ course in Russian assuming little or no prior experience or knowledge of the language. In the first week you’ll acquaint yourself with the Russian alphabet (it’s not that different) and learn to read Russian. At the end of the course you’ll know all the basics of Russian grammar, will be able to read simple texts and to use your speaking skills in real-life situations (in case you find yourself lost in Red Square)! You’ll participate in classroom-based activities, often working in pairs and groups exchanging ideas and supporting each other in your exploration of the language. You’ll be able to improve and develop your grammar and vocabulary skills through watching Russian films, reading newspaper articles and short stories, discussing their content and expressing your opinion. Having a Russian language course on your CV will give you an advantage over other graduates, and it will also provide work opportunities in Eastern Europe, Russia and the countries of the former Soviet Union. This course will also help you to become a more informed global citizen whatever your specialisation or area of interest. Please note that you should not have a level of knowledge in Russian that exceeds beginners’ level when enrolling on this course, or you may be asked to withdraw from the module (at the Teacher’s discretion). Please contact us if you’re unsure.

SOCIAL AND POLITICAL THEORY

Code PPLX4051A

Credits 20

This module introduces you to a few important and interesting writers and thinkers whose ideas have been so influential that they have become part of, and have even transformed, our society, culture and politics. As you read their work, learning how to make sense of it and arguing about it with others, you will come to think more deeply about the workings and politics of contemporary society and culture: the forces that shape it and the contradictions that define it. You will pay special attention to the three fundamental values that have shaped modern society and politics since the French Revolution: liberty, equality and fraternity. This will underpin your studies on other modules (in Political Science, International Relations, Media, History and Literature) and provide you with a strong basis upon which to develop your knowledge in Levels 2 and 3.

INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPORARY POLITICS

Code PPLX4052A

Credits 20

Politics is changing. And changing, faster than ever before. The rise of populist movements, environmental challenges, economic crises and the rise of digital politics are reshaping the relationships between states and citizens. Liberal democracy, once thought to be the triumphant political system, is under threat. This module will provide you with an overview of the different ways the subject has been approached so far to assess whether these are fit for purpose in new times. You’ll then be provided with knowledge of a series of case study countries including from Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas, around the world from our in-house experts. Finally, we’ll explore the nature of these challenges thematically to give you a cutting-edge knowledge of contemporary politics.

Optional B Modules

(20 credits)

VISUAL(ISING) HISTORY

Code HIS-4007B

Credits 20

The importance of visual and material sources as historical evidence, as witnesses to history, has long been recognised by historians. Relics, buildings, maps, paintings, photographs, and films are all visual and material sources from which historians can elicit meaning. Paintings, photographs, and films in particular propose to give us unique access to the ideological, physical and emotional content of a specific historic moment. But visual evidence also challenges us to consider where we as historians draw the line between the mediated and unmediated ‘truth’ of the past. History is always an interpretation of the past that changes. Our aim is to introduce students to the analysis and interpretation of a wide range of visual and material evidence. Furthermore, students will examine the manifold ways in which audiovisual historical representations shape and reshape our collective memory and understanding of the past from the medieval to the contemporary.

BEGINNERS' FRENCH II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4014B

Credits 20

Parlons français ! This module will help you to further your basics of French language and communication in order to enable you to cope with concrete situations. This module is perfect for you if you have taken Beginners’ French I – A1 CEFR, or if you have some experience of French language, whether a GCSE or equivalent many years ago, an A1 language course or other relevant formal knowledge. Throughout the semester, you’ll develop reading, listening, speaking and writing skills at the A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means that you’ll be able to cope in a number of situations, including some you may encounter when travelling. You’ll be able to talk and write about yourself and your immediate surrounding environment in some detail, and you’ll work on handling short social exchanges. You’ll be taught in an interactive and friendly environment, and will often work in pairs or small groups. Your two-hour seminar will focus on listening, reading and writing skills, while the oral hour will help you to develop your confidence in speaking. We’ll tackle some grammatical notions in class, but always as a means for you to improve your communication skills. You’ll also have opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where French is spoken, thanks to the various documents we will use to develop your linguistic skills (songs, podcasts, short articles and videos…). You’ll be assessed by two course tests: the first will cover listening, reading, and writing skills and the second will cover your speaking skills. On successful completion of the module, you’ll be able to understand and use expressions related to areas of immediate relevance, or that you may encounter when travelling. You’ll be able to communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a direct exchange of information. You’ll be able to describe in simple terms aspects of your background, immediate environment and needs.

BEGINNERS' FRENCH I - A1 CEFR (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4015B

Credits 20

Bonjour, comment ça va? Do you want to understand what this means and how to say it? This module will help you to master basics of French language and communication. This module is perfect for you if you have never studied French before (or have very little experience of it). Throughout the semester, you’ll develop reading, listening, speaking and writing skills at the A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means that you will learn to communicate about yourself and your immediate environment in a set of concrete, everyday situations. You’ll be taught in a very interactive and friendly environment, and will often work in pairs or small groups. Your two-hour seminar will focus on listening, reading and writing skills, while the oral hour will help you to develop your confidence in speaking. We’ll tackle some grammatical notions in class, but always as a means for you to improve your communication skills. You’ll also have opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where French is spoken, thanks to the various documents we will use to develop your linguistic skills (songs, podcasts, leaflets…). You’ll be assessed by two course tests: the first will cover listening, reading, and writing skills and the second will cover your speaking skills. On successful completion of this module, you’ll be able to understand and use familiar everyday expressions aimed at both the satisfaction of concrete needs, or those used to describe areas of most immediate relevance. You’ll be able to introduce yourself and others, ask and answer questions about personal details, and interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly.

BEGINNERS' GERMAN II - A1.2 CEFR

Code PPLB4019B

Credits 20

Do you want to refresh and further develop your basic German skills? Would you like to converse with a native speaker beyond the first introductions? Or do you simply want to understand a little more about what makes the Germans, the Swiss or Austrians tick? This follow-on course is perfect if you have completed the Beginners 1 module or have very basic knowledge of the language. You will gain more confidence in using German in conversation as you become ever more familiar with essential German grammar. You will learn how to express opinions, wishes and requests, and how to master the skill of congratulating and complimenting other people. During this module you will also gain further awareness of German traditions and ways of thinking to help you make sense of a country that is deeply rooted in the heart of Europe. In a relaxed environment you will participate in interactive activities, working in pairs and groups to try out and be creative with new words and phrases. The fun of language learning will never be far away and promises to give you the confidence to maintain a conversation and express yourself to a target audience in writing. As well as speaking and listening to each other you will apply a range of strategies to help you make sense of authentic German texts. A solid beginners’ course in German will enable you to add a vital skill to your CV. At this crucial political and cultural moment in time the study of the German language and culture will without doubt make you a more attractive graduate and informed global citizen, whatever your specialism or area of interest. Please note that your current language proficiency level should not exceed the level of this course.

BEGINNERS' SPANISH II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4023B

Credits 20

Have you ever taken any basic Spanish course? Do you want to carry on studying this widely spoken language after taking Beginners´ Spanish I? Beginners´ Spanish II will add to your academic education and will provide you with the confidence to advance towards upper intermediate and advanced levels. You will develop your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Personal feedback will support you along the way. You will take part in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and/or small groups supporting each other in the process of learning Spanish and engaging with a range of tasks. You'll also be able to focus on real life situations as well as the ability to communicate effectively in those situations. There will also be opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where Spanish is used. By the end of this module, you will be able to understand commonly used, everyday phrases and expressions related to areas of experience (basic information about yourselves, and your family, shopping, places of interest, work, etc.). You can take Beginners’ II if you have passed Beginners’ I. Alternatively, your language skills will need to be assessed with a placement test.

BEGINNERS' SPANISH I - A1 CEFR (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4024B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' ARABIC II

Code PPLB4030B

Credits 20

This is the second part of a beginners' course in Arabic following on from Beginners' Arabic I module. The course is based on the best selling book series Mastering Arabic 1 , Units 9 to 15: - teaches Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), the universal language of the Arab world - covers a functional variety of situations you will encounter in the Arab world - offers a gradual introduction to the language and structures through audio, video, stories and lively exercises to help you practise what you have learnt. To take the Beginners’ II module, your language skills need to be assessed by passing a placement test or by passing Beginners’ I.

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE II

Code PPLB4032B

Credits 20

Having gained an insight in communicating using a 'visual' language, how would you relate a story, a narrative or a conversation using more than two people? How would you describe where something is in a room, the room itself or give directions involving a map? This module builds on your studies in British Sign Language giving you confidence and further skills in communicating with the deaf. Teaching and learning strategies continue to involve a more fluent signed conversation, role-play, and lots more games and exercises embedding your learning that makes this an exciting module to take! In this module you will continue to look at deaf culture, address and look at various equipment that assists the Deaf in their everyday life. For example, how do they know someone is at the door? Can they communicate over the telephone? What would happen if you were in a building on fire? On successful completion of this module you will have developed knowledge and skills that will enable you to communicate confidently with a Deaf person. Your will broaden your knowledge and understanding of a truly unique and amazing form of communication and a culture so very different than what you may have encountered before. To take Introduction to British Sign Language II, your language skills need to be assessed by passing a placement test or by passing Introduction to British Sign Language I. To take Introduction to British Sign Language II, you must have passed Introduction to British Sign Language I.

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE I (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4033B

Credits 20

How would you converse with someone who is deaf? At work? In school? In an emergency? How can you avoid typical faux pas due to ignorance of a different culture? Can a 'signed'/'visual' language 'convey as adequately' as a 'spoken' language? These questions highlight the central learning achieved in this module. This is a course in British Sign Language assuming no prior, or minimal knowledge of the language. Throughout the course you will discover aspects central to the Deaf World and its Culture, and how to communicate through a unique 'visual' language, a language that uses your hands and body to communicate! Teaching and learning strategies involve signed conversation (from early on), role-play, and lots of games and exercises that make a truly 'fun and enjoyable' module to take. You will learn a little about the history of the Deaf and Sign Language itself, and its long battle to be recognised. You will discover how using your body and hands can be an exciting and meaningful way of communicating. You will acquire a wide range of easily usable vocabulary, a deeper look into various features that make the language unique, and very different to spoken languages. On successful completion of this module you will have developed knowledge and skills that will enable you to communicate with a Deaf person. You will be able to take your British Sign Language studies onto the next level, broadening your knowledge and developing further, the skill within this amazing 'Visual' language. Please note, students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the level for which they have enrolled may be asked to withdraw from the module.

BEGINNERS' CHINESE II

Code PPLB4035B

Credits 20

Thinking about brushing up on your Mandarin Chinese? Planning an exciting trip to China? Still struggling with pinyin and reading Chinese? Then this module is designed for you! You will explore more sentence patterns in daily-life communicative situations and build up your character blocks. You will learn tenses, reading characters and different ways to ask questions. You will stretch your linguistic ability by becoming aware of cultural norms so that you can communicate with local people, but without a scary amount of vocabulary. By the end of the module, you will have established a solid foundation in Chinese and will have achieved a communicative level, confident in expressing your needs while travelling and composing messages to your friends or future colleagues confidently. Please note that students speaking other varieties of Chinese (e.g. Cantonese) are not eligible for this module. To take the Beginners’ II module, your language skills need to be assessed by passing a placement test or by passing Beginners’ I. This is a subsidiary language module, and very occasionally, may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment.

BEGINNERS' ITALIAN II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4039B

Credits 20

Do you have enough Italian to get by when in Italy, or for communicating with Italians socially or for business? Do you now want to deepen your understanding of the language and learn the tools to enable you to really connect? You will continue to study the different tenses and grammatical structures while improving your spoken Italian and honing your listening skills. You’ll become more competent in Italian, but you’ll also gain a solid foundation on which to build in the future whether continuing with Italian or with other languages. The classes will be interactive; you’ll support each other while learning in a friendly environment. The module will yield a lot of new vocabulary and it will also show you how the language works. You’ll discover an innovative approach to extending a basic knowledge of Italian by using the widest possible variety of dialogues and texts. You’ll work in pairs and small groups; enjoyment in the classroom will lead to increased confidence when trying out your new skills. Regular feedback on your oral, listening and written work will motivate you to explore further and make the most of other resources outside the classroom. By the end of this module, you’ll have added a vital skill to your CV, and you’ll be very keen to get to Italy to try out your newly learnt talents (if you have not already done so)! To take this module your language skills need to be assessed by passing a placement test or by passing Beginners’ Italian I. Please note that this is a subsidiary language module. Very occasionally, subsidiary language modules may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment.

BEGINNERS' JAPANESE II

Code PPLB4041B

Credits 20

Have you taken Beginners' Japanese I or equivalent? Would you like to learn the language to the level that you could comfortably communicate with Japanese speakers? In Beginners’ Japanese II, you will continue to study the different tenses and grammatical structures while improving your spoken Japanese and honing your listening skills. By the end of this module, you will be able to understand and use everyday phrases and expressions. To take the Beginners’ II module, your language skills need to be assessed by passing a placement test or by passing Beginners’ I. Please note that students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the level for which they have enrolled may be asked to withdraw from the module at the tutor’s discretion. This is a subsidiary language module, and very occasionally, may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment.

BEGINNERS' JAPANESE I (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4042B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' RUSSIAN II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4044B

Credits 20

Winston Churchill once said that ‘Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’. Russia gave the world Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Shostakovich, Chagall and borsch! Would you like to know more about the largest country in the world and unwrap some of the mysteries of its history, culture and politics through its language? Before enrolling on this course you’ll need to be acquainted with the Russian alphabet, able to read and write in Russian, and to know a few initial items of grammar and vocabulary (skills that will be learnt in the Beginners' Russian I module). At the end of the course you’ll know all the basics of Russian grammar, you’ll be able to read more complex texts and you’ll have improved your speaking skills in real-life situations (in case you find yourself lost in Red Square)! You’ll participate in classroom-based activities, often working in pairs and groups exchanging ideas and supporting each other in your exploration of the language. You’ll be able to improve and develop your grammar and vocabulary skills through watching Russian films, reading newspaper articles and short stories, discussing their content and expressing your opinion. Having a Russian language course on your CV will give you an advantage over other graduates, and it will also provide work opportunities in Eastern Europe, Russia and the countries of the former Soviet Union. This course will also help you to become a more informed global citizen whatever your specialisation or area of interest. Please note that you should not have a level of knowledge in Russian that exceeds the beginners’ level specified above when enrolling on this course, or you may be asked to withdraw from the module (at the Teacher’s discretion). Please contact us if you’re unsure.

BEGINNERS' ARABIC I (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4045B

Credits 20

This is a most lively, accessible and carefully-paced Arabic course, aimed at beginners with little or no previous knowledge of the language, who want to understand, speak and read Arabic confidently. The course is based on the best selling book series Mastering Arabic 1 series: - teaches Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), the universal language of the Arab world - covers a functional variety of situations you will encounter in the Arab world - offers a gradual introduction to the language, script and structures through the development of essential speaking, listening, reading and writing skills - some aspects of the Arab world and culture(s) are covered.

BEGINNERS' GERMAN I (SPRING START) - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4047B

Credits 20

Have you ever wished you could order your mulled wine at the Christmas market in German? How would it feel be to be able to introduce yourself in German or survive a basic conversation in the language? Or do you simply want to understand what makes the Germans, the Austrians, or the Swiss tick? These questions highlight the central learning you will achieve within this module. Our beginners’ course in German is perfect if you have very little or no prior knowledge of the language. You will gain the confidence to use German in basic conversations as you develop a first understanding of German sounds and essential grammar. You will build up a bank of key vocabulary to survive in real-life situations. You will also gain a greater awareness of German traditions and ways of thinking to help you make sense of a country that is deeply rooted in the heart of Europe. In a relaxed environment you will participate in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and groups to try out and be creative with new sounds, words and phrases. The fun of language learning will never be far away and promises to give you the confidence to make the first steps in German. As well as speaking and listening to each other you will discover the joy of understanding an authentic German text and to write an amazing first paragraph in German. A first course in German will enable you to add a vital skill to your CV. At this crucial political and cultural moment in time the study of the German language and culture will without doubt make you a more attractive graduate and informed global citizen, whatever your specialism or area of interest. Please note that you should not have a level of German that exceeds the level of this course.

ENGLISH ACADEMIC WRITING SKILLS (LEVEL 4)

Code PPLB4055B

Credits 20

Do you need help in organising your writing and expressing your thoughts clearly? Would you like to gain the tools and confidence to write more clearly and fluently, leading to better grades and greater satisfaction with your work? In this module you will learn how to structure academic essays. You will have practice in summarising and paraphrasing material from sources to ensure you can capture the essential points of a writer’s argument and avoid any form of plagiarism. This will include help with ways to manage the referencing of sources. There will be a focus on vocabulary throughout the course. You will have help in using a range of cohesive devices to link ideas within and between paragraphs. It is also likely that the class will need some remedial work on a specific area of grammar occasionally, and the tutor will allow time in class to deal with such issues, however grammar will not be the focus of the class. Naturally, you will be required to complete weekly homework assignments in addition to any reading and writing you do in the classroom, and you will receive regular feedback. This module will require you to write an essay and reflect on class readings. This module is not open to native or near-native speakers of English and would not be suitable for International students who have already had considerable experience in English essay writing. This module is suitable for students who aren’t sure about how to avoid plagiarism, struggle to make their essays cohesive or need more help with integrating source material in an interesting way. Students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the general level of the module may be asked to withdraw from the module, at the Teacher's discretion. Please note that very occasionally subsidiary language modules may be cancelled due to low enrolment.

INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL COMMUNICATION

Code PPLM4001B

Credits 20

Trump’s Tweets, Macron on TikTok, government sponsored troll farms and personalised campaign messages sent by algorithms…political communication has changed drastically in the last five years. Pundits and some scholars warn of serious dangers to democracy. What are the tricks of the trade in modern political communication and how different are they from those of the past? How does one now succeed to get across a message and gain support? Should we be worried about the implications for political discourse and decision-making? This module will enable you to critically assess the role of communication in national and international politics and help you understand the dynamics among political actors, media and citizens in opinion formation and decision-making. This is a professional practice module in which you will gain skills relevant to the conduct of political communications and to many other work environments, as well as experience working in a team on a task that requires critical thinking and collaborative strategizing. This module is ideal for anyone interested in working in politics, diplomacy, journalism, marketing, or for advocacy or activist civil society groups. Ideas about the power of communications and the ways that various political actors use that power are at the heart of this module. You’ll examine how these actors use the media in political communications. Lectures and readings will cover media effects, how political communication has changed with changes in media technology, branding and celebrity in politics, and soft power with political communication at the international level, as well as the tools used by various political actors, such as political parties or civic movements. Lectures are interactive, using an audience response system and open discussion. Seminar activities include practical tasks as well as ones to enhance understanding of the readings. The first assessed work is a group project in which you will play the role of junior analysts in a communications consultancy and you will work together to assess the political communications of a real political actor, your “client”, producing a report and presentation that includes recommendations for improvement. The second is an essay that gives you the chance to develop your ability to analyse and synthesise. By the end of this module you will be able to identify and describe the actors and their interests in a given political communications contexts, as well as formulate and articulate clear arguments about the relationships between political actors and the media in relation to power and agency. You will have gained experience in a simulated work scenario that will give you skills transferable across a number of professions as you will have delivered analysis and recommendations in a professional-style presentation and report. You will also be able evaluate political communications’ role in an international context, something increasingly necessary in the ever more globalized world both for political and corporate actors.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

The Course Director can support 40 credits off profile over the course of your degree.

Assessment for Year 2

As you progress through your degree, you can choose from a wide range of modules with a range of assessment formats. The majority of our assessment is at the individual level and is written coursework. Students will also have the opportunity to take modules involving assessment by presentation, group projects, including group presentations, and a range of new types of writing including policy briefs, reports and select committee submissions.

Compulsory Modules

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORY

Code PPLI5059A

Credits 20

What does the world look like to a Marxist, or a liberal, or a feminist, or a realist? We all hold particular ideas about how the world works: about why certain events happen, who the key actors in the international system are, and whether it is even possible to change things for future generations. Theories of International Relations (IR) attempt to capture these assumptions, explaining the world in different ways to others. You will explore how the discipline of IR emerged in the early 20th century, before investigating the very different theories which have shaped, and sometimes dominated, academic and policy makers' ideas about how the world actually works.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

POLITICS IN THE USA

Code AMAH5058A

Credits 20

This module will introduce you to current trends and developments in American politics and government. But to understand contemporary events, we also need to understand the history that brought us here. In this module you will explore contemporary US politics and developments in modern American political history, underpinned by discussions about the structure and functioning of the US government from the nation’s founding to today. No prior knowledge of American politics is necessary but a general interest in the subject is advisable.

INTRODUCTION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

Code PPLI5044A

Credits 20

Who rules the EU? What does it do concretely for EU citizens? How democratic is it? How serious are the challenges it is currently facing, from the reform of its economic governance to Brexit? To explore these questions, and more, you'll examine the development, structure, nature and functions of the European Union. You'll look at the history and theories of European integration from the 1940s to the present day. You'll explore the institutions and processes which run the EU, and demystify its main policies. The aim of the module is not only to ensure that you understand the ‘nuts and bolts’ of what the EU is and how it works. You'll also examine critically and articulate contending arguments on key issues such as the role of the member-states in the European system of governance; the EU's democratic credentials; the causes and consequences of Brexit; or the influence of the EU in the world. The EU is an integral part of its member states' structures of governance and it influences their domestic political, social and cultural life, as well as EU neighbouring countries. Understanding how the European Union works is important in many jobs at local, national or international levels in the public, private and third (community and voluntary) sectors. This module is recommended if you intend to progress to the 'European Studies with Brussels Internship’ module in Year 3.

GENDER AND POWER

Code PPLM5002A

Credits 20

Providing a conceptual overview of feminist research approaches, this module examines contemporary gender and power relations. You will examine both the formal and informal power structures that shape the experience of gender. Bringing together the fields of media and sociology, politics and cultural studies, you will explore the relationship between feminist theory and activism.

WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT

Code PPLX5064A

Credits 20

In this second year module you will examine in depth the works of selected thinkers who are seminal to the Western tradition of political thought, and have shaped the ways in which we think about politics even today, including Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill and Machiavelli. You will also compare their work thematically, with a focus on themes such as the natural law and social contract traditions, and other schools of thought which have been influenced by these traditions. The module will be based on the study and interpretation of key primary texts and will enable you to develop skills of textual analysis and critique. It will also provide some of the historical background necessary to study more contemporary political theory at 3rd year undergraduate level, as well as building substantially on some of the political theories encountered on Social and Political Theory at first year level. The module is taught by a combination of weekly lectures and seminars, supported by private study of your own, and you will be assessed by coursework, usually a combination of an essay and a portfolio which reflects on your reading and seminar performance throughout the semester.

Optional B Modules

(20 credits)

MODERN GERMANY, 1914-1990

Code HIS-5018A

Credits 20

We will introduce you to German history in the twentieth century, which was characterised by various radical regime changes and territorial alterations. Topics include German world policy and nationalism in the late imperial period; imperialism and expansionism during the First World War; the challenges of modernity in the Weimar Republic; the rise of Hitler and the formation of the Nazi empire in Europe; the post-war division of Germany and the legacy of the Third Reich; the nature of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) dictatorship and the problem of West German terrorism; as well as the fall of the Berlin Wall and reunification. Special attention will be given to questions of nationalism and national identity, issues of history and memory, and Germany’s role in Europe and the world. On completion of this module you will have developed a solid understanding of one of the most dramatic periods of German history when the country oscillated between the two extremes of war and repression, on the one hand, and the return to peace and democracy, on the other.

BETWEEN EAST AND WEST: INTERNATIONAL HISTORY SINCE 1890

Code HIS-5065A

Credits 20

The beginning of the twentieth century witnessed a period of immense instability and change with the emergence of the United States as an international actor in the West and the Japanese break from the Chinese sphere of influence in the East. This was underpinned by technological developments, the expansion of global empires, extreme economic dislocation and two global wars. You will examine the conduct and content of the foreign policies of the major powers from the 1890s, with the Sino-Japanese War and the Spanish-American War, to the Japanese occupation of Asia. This will include assessing the interplay of the political, military, economic, strategic and cultural forces that shaped the beginning of the twentieth century and which continue to resonate in the contemporary world.

JAPAN IN MODERN TIMES

Code HIS-5066A

Credits 20

In just a few decades Japan emerged from its feudal and isolationist condition and became a thriving capitalist nation-state with imperialist ambitions on the world’s stage. From the mid-nineteenth century onwards, the country re-invented itself, combining the strength of its traditions with Western models of government, economic management, social structure and culture. Samurai gave way to elite bureaucrats; a skilled industrial workforce gradually displaced the peasantry; education expanded with remarkable speed; new infrastructure transformed the physical landscape. New patterns of daily life, social tensions and cultural aspirations accompanied these changes. The aggressive expansionist policy and authoritarianism of the 1930s precipitated the country into a war with devastating consequences, only for Japan to resurrect itself as a global industrial power and stable democracy in the post-war era. This module examines this process of transformation from circa 1850, when Western powers pressured Japan into opening to international trade, to the oil shock of the 1970s that brought an end to Japan’s high growth phase. You will pay attention to the intellectual and cultural trends that informed Japan’s development, and investigate concepts such as revolution, national identity, civilizational discourse, late imperialism, and historical memory. You will also explore social and economic change as reflected in lived experience, for example in farms and villages at the turn of the century; on the home front during the Russo-Japanese War; in bustling cities during the Taisho era; in colonial outposts before and during the Pacific War; and in occupied Japan afterwards.

BEGINNERS' FRENCH I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4013A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' GERMAN I - A1.1 CEFR

Code PPLB4018A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' SPANISH I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4022A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' ARABIC I

Code PPLB4029A

Credits 20

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE I

Code PPLB4031A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' CHINESE I

Code PPLB4034A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' ITALIAN I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4038A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' JAPANESE I

Code PPLB4040A

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' RUSSIAN I - A1 CEFR

Code PPLB4043A

Credits 20

INTERMEDIATE GERMAN I - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB5151A

Credits 20

Would you like to take your basic German skills to a higher level? Wouldn’t it be tempting to be able to express a range of feelings in German? Or take part in simple discussions and manage to hold your own? Fancy describing a photo and capture your audience's full attention? This module is perfect if you have already completed Beginners modules or have sufficient pre-A-level experience of German but not if you are already working at a higher level than this. You will become more competent and confident in conversation with others as you explore essential grammar and vocabulary at a higher level. You will learn how to express opinions and preferences in a more complex way and how to master the skill of agreeing and disagreeing, suggesting and recommending. You will gain the confidence to present to a small audience and shine in the process of it. During this module you will develop your understanding of the German way of thinking through shining a light at cultural traditions and engaging with authentic film clips. In a relaxed environment you will participate in interactive activities, working in groups to try out and be creative with new words and phrases. The fun of language learning will never be far away and promises to give you the confidence to hold your own in basic discussions and presentations. As well as speaking and listening to each other you will apply a range of strategies to help you produce and understand longer texts. A basic intermediate course in German will enable you to add a vital skill to your CV. At this crucial political and cultural moment in time the study of the German language and culture will without doubt make you a more attractive graduate and informed global citizen, whatever your specialism or area of interest. The module is not suitable for students with an A-level grade of A*-C in German or an equivalent qualification [B1+].

UNDERSTANDING SECOND LANGUAGE TEACHING (LEVEL 5)

Code PPLL5175A

Credits 20

Have you thought about becoming a language teacher? Do you know what that means? Would you like to give it a try? This is an introduction to second language teaching and learning, where you will explore theoretical and practical approaches to language learning. You will learn what teaching a foreign language means through different methodologies and practical approaches, as well as understanding the peculiarities of both language and culture in second language acquisition, emphasizing factors like context, motivation, first language or individual characteristics. Participation will be in classroom-based activities, often working in pairs and groups exchanging ideas and supporting each other in your exploration of second language learning and teaching. You will be able to observe real language classrooms and deliver language teaching in real contexts, and also gain a greater understanding of what theoretical and practical aspects of teaching and learning are essential in foreign languages.

Optional C Modules

(60 credits)

AMERICA IN THE WORLD: THE HISTORY OF U.S. FOREIGN RELATIONS

Code AMAH5051B

Credits 20

Has the United States helped or harmed the rest of the world during its rise to world power? Why has it been, and continues to be, involved in every corner of the globe? You will be offered a critical introduction to understanding the history of U.S. foreign relations. You will explore the key themes and traditions that have informed America’s approach to international affairs, from foundational ideas in the 18th and 19th centuries to increasing influence in the 20th and 21st centuries. In addition to analysing traditional political and diplomatic issues, you will consider the link between foreign and domestic policies, and the role of various state and non-state actors that have shaped America’s actions abroad. You will work with original primary sources, the latest secondary literature, and a range of cultural and political texts including speeches, newspapers, and editorial cartoons. This broader consideration of foreign relations history engages important contemporary trends in the historiography of U.S. foreign policy – regarding race, gender, and the “international” and “cultural” turns – and connects them to emerging trends in the fields of American history and international relations. As a result, you will gain a detailed understanding of the history of U.S. foreign relations and the legacies that continue to shape debates about America’s role in the world today.

THE MODERN MIDDLE EAST

Code HIS-5048B

Credits 20

We will look at the modern history of the Middle East, primarily concerning the political history of the region as well as relations between Middle Eastern countries and Western powers. Our aim is to encourage you to think critically about historical processes of state formation, the legacy of colonialism/imperialism, the role of culture and identity, and the significance of natural resources and economic factors.

FROM STALIN TO PUTIN: THE LONG SHADOW OF THE WAR

Code HIS-5065B

Credits 20

World War II and the immense sacrifices the Soviet people made in defeating Nazism left multiple long-lasting legacies that shaped the multi-ethnic Soviet and post-Soviet Russian state, society and economy. This module aims to give you a better understanding of the state of contemporary Russian politics, society and economy through detailed historical enquiry of Russia’s path since 1945. It is divided into two main parts: in part one you will examine key periods of post-war Russian history in chronological order, and in the second part you will look more closely at key contemporary in their historical perspective. These will include the question what it meant to be Soviet and its legacy; geopolitical imperatives, which only recently led Putin to invade Crimea; identity politics and historical commemoration; the transition of the economy from a planned economy to a market economy; and the complex mutations and adaptations of power structures in Russia that gave birth to Putin’s ‘managed democracy’.

ARTS AND HUMANITIES PLACEMENT MODULE

Code HUM-5004B

Credits 20

This module will provide you with the opportunity work within a creative/cultural/charity/ heritage/media or other appropriate organisation in order to apply the skills you are developing through your degree to the working world and to develop your knowledge of employment sectors within which you may wish to work in the future. The module emphasises industry experience, sector awareness and personal development through a structured reflective learning experience. Having sourced and secured your own placement (with support from Careers Central), you work within your host organisation undertaking tasks that will help you to gain a better understanding of professional practices within your chosen sector. Taught sessions enable you to acquire knowledge of both the industries in which you are placed as well as focusing on personal and professional development germane to the sector. Your assessment tasks will provide you with an opportunity to critically reflect on the creative and cultural sector in which you have worked as well as providing opportunities to undertake presentations, gather evidence, and articulate your newly acquired skills and experiences.

PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW

Code LAW-5014B

Credits 20

Public international law is the legal regime that governs States, and as such balances law with international affairs and politics. This module examines how international law is formed, who it applies to, the role of the United Nations and how public international law protects individuals. It also interrogates the cohesiveness of this body, or bodies, of law. Particular focus is placed on human rights, self-determination, use of force, international criminal law, environmental and trade law. The module addresses both the practical and theoretical aspects of public international law and consequently considers how the public international law framework applies to contemporary situations.

BEGINNERS' FRENCH II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4014B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' FRENCH I - A1 CEFR (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4015B

Credits 20

Bonjour, comment ça va? Do you want to understand what this means and how to say it? This module will help you to master basics of French language and communication. This module is perfect for you if you have never studied French before (or have very little experience of it). Throughout the semester, you’ll develop reading, listening, speaking and writing skills at the A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means that you will learn to communicate about yourself and your immediate environment in a set of concrete, everyday situations. You’ll be taught in a very interactive and friendly environment, and will often work in pairs or small groups. Your two-hour seminar will focus on listening, reading and writing skills, while the oral hour will help you to develop your confidence in speaking. We’ll tackle some grammatical notions in class, but always as a means for you to improve your communication skills. You’ll also have opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where French is spoken, thanks to the various documents we will use to develop your linguistic skills (songs, podcasts, leaflets…). You’ll be assessed by two course tests: the first will cover listening, reading, and writing skills and the second will cover your speaking skills. On successful completion of this module, you’ll be able to understand and use familiar everyday expressions aimed at both the satisfaction of concrete needs, or those used to describe areas of most immediate relevance. You’ll be able to introduce yourself and others, ask and answer questions about personal details, and interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly.

BEGINNERS' GERMAN II - A1.2 CEFR

Code PPLB4019B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' SPANISH II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4023B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' SPANISH I - A1 CEFR (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4024B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' ARABIC II

Code PPLB4030B

Credits 20

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE II

Code PPLB4032B

Credits 20

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE I (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4033B

Credits 20

How would you converse with someone who is deaf? At work? In school? In an emergency? How can you avoid typical faux pas due to ignorance of a different culture? Can a 'signed'/'visual' language 'convey as adequately' as a 'spoken' language? These questions highlight the central learning achieved in this module. This is a course in British Sign Language assuming no prior, or minimal knowledge of the language. Throughout the course you will discover aspects central to the Deaf World and its Culture, and how to communicate through a unique 'visual' language, a language that uses your hands and body to communicate! Teaching and learning strategies involve signed conversation (from early on), role-play, and lots of games and exercises that make a truly 'fun and enjoyable' module to take. You will learn a little about the history of the Deaf and Sign Language itself, and its long battle to be recognised. You will discover how using your body and hands can be an exciting and meaningful way of communicating. You will acquire a wide range of easily usable vocabulary, a deeper look into various features that make the language unique, and very different to spoken languages. On successful completion of this module you will have developed knowledge and skills that will enable you to communicate with a Deaf person. You will be able to take your British Sign Language studies onto the next level, broadening your knowledge and developing further, the skill within this amazing 'Visual' language. Please note, students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the level for which they have enrolled may be asked to withdraw from the module.

BEGINNERS' CHINESE II

Code PPLB4035B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' ITALIAN II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4039B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' JAPANESE II

Code PPLB4041B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' JAPANESE I (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4042B

Credits 20

BEGINNERS' RUSSIAN II - A2 CEFR

Code PPLB4044B

Credits 20

Winston Churchill once said that ‘Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’. Russia gave the world Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Shostakovich, Chagall and borsch! Would you like to know more about the largest country in the world and unwrap some of the mysteries of its history, culture and politics through its language? Before enrolling on this course you’ll need to be acquainted with the Russian alphabet, able to read and write in Russian, and to know a few initial items of grammar and vocabulary (skills that will be learnt in the Beginners' Russian I module). At the end of the course you’ll know all the basics of Russian grammar, you’ll be able to read more complex texts and you’ll have improved your speaking skills in real-life situations (in case you find yourself lost in Red Square)! You’ll participate in classroom-based activities, often working in pairs and groups exchanging ideas and supporting each other in your exploration of the language. You’ll be able to improve and develop your grammar and vocabulary skills through watching Russian films, reading newspaper articles and short stories, discussing their content and expressing your opinion. Having a Russian language course on your CV will give you an advantage over other graduates, and it will also provide work opportunities in Eastern Europe, Russia and the countries of the former Soviet Union. This course will also help you to become a more informed global citizen whatever your specialisation or area of interest. Please note that you should not have a level of knowledge in Russian that exceeds the beginners’ level specified above when enrolling on this course, or you may be asked to withdraw from the module (at the Teacher’s discretion). Please contact us if you’re unsure.

BEGINNERS' ARABIC I (SPRING START)

Code PPLB4045B

Credits 20

INTERMEDIATE GERMAN II - B1 CEFR

Code PPLB5033B

Credits 20

Would you like to take your German to a higher level and start to become a more independent user? Wouldn’t it be tempting to take part in a job interview or pitch a start-up idea in German? How about describing your favourite student recipe? Maybe you simply love discussing your views in person and on digital platforms. This follow-on course is perfect if you have completed the Intermediate module or have basic A-level experience in German but not if you are already working at a higher level than this. You will become more independent in conversation with others as you continue to explore essential grammar and vocabulary at a higher level. You will learn how to talk about experiences, hopes and ambitions in a more complex way and how to master the skill of persuasion. During this module you will develop a deeper understanding of the German way of thinking through looking at current affairs and some iconic German language films and series. In a relaxed environment you will participate in interactive, collaborative activities, working in groups to try out and be creative with new words and grammar structures. The fun of language learning will never be far away and promises to give you the confidence to hold your own in discussions and presentations. As well as speaking and listening to each other you will apply strategies to help you produce and understand longer texts. A sound intermediate course in German will enable you to add a vital and highly valued skill to your CV. At this crucial political and cultural moment in time the study of the German language and culture will without doubt make you a more attractive graduate and informed global citizen, whatever your specialism or area of interest. The module is not suitable for students already working at B2 or a higher level of German. Pre-requisite is a language level assessment test with the tutor.

INTERNATIONAL SECURITY

Code PPLI5056B

Credits 20

Why are wars fought? What is peace? What is security? International Security introduces you to these key issues in global politics. In the first part of the module, you will explore the continuing salience of violent conflict and the use of force in world politics. While some have argued that the advent of globalisation and spread of liberal democracy would make violent conflict less relevant in today’s world, war and the use of force remain an integral part of the international system. In exploring these issues, you will study a variety of perspectives on the causes of war and peace to examine the roots of violent conflict and security problems in the present day. In the second half of the module, we will turn to contemporary ‘critical’ debates around international security. These include constructivist and feminist perspectives on what security is, how it is achieved, and whether it is desirable. We will also investigate the host of seemingly new security challenges that have increasingly captured the attention of policymakers and academics. How useful is it to think of issues such as environmental degradation, gendered violences, and poverty as security issues? What do we gain and lose in broadening security studies beyond a narrow focus on warfare and military power?

POWER, WEALTH AND NATIONS: GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY

Code PPLI5161B

Credits 20

This course provides students with an introduction to the global political economy. The world is made up of flows: goods, services, capital, people, cultures, and ideas which continuously cross borders and move across oceans. And so it has been for hundreds of years, An array of international regimes, national authorities, nongovernmental organisations, companies, and social movements exist to promote, prohibit, or regulate these exchanges and flows. There are, just as importantly, the processes of the ‘everyday’, the social reproduction of society, that reveal how gendered the global political economy actually is. And one of the biggest challenges is thinking how to manage the fragile environmental equilibrium and economics’ obsession with growth on a finite planet. All this is taking place in a world moving East, to Asia, and in the process of decolonising from the long shadow of Western extractive imperialism in the global South.

CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE SOCIETY

Code PPLJ5012B

Credits 20

In this module, you’ll analyse contemporary Japanese society using topical issues in Japan and deepen your understanding of the country and people. All lectures are conducted in English. Throughout the module, you’ll learn about various topical issues such as family, gender and education, uncover the roots behind these and develop your findings and ideas into a discussion. You’ll use various materials including academic articles and digital resources including online news articles and audio-visual materials. Through not only reading the news but also considering the stories in depth and the reasons behind the issues happening in Japan, you’ll develop and improve your research and analytical skills. You’ll also be able to discern and compare similarities and differences between Japanese culture and society and your own country.

POLITICAL VIOLENCE & CONFLICT: THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES

Code PPLM5002B

Credits 20

Political violence, individual or collective, is easily condemned as an irrational and barbaric phenomenon, with little relevance for understanding political developments and social change. A lot is down to LeBon’s famous nineteenth century accounts of the crowd as ‘a primitive being’ so destructive ‘that the interests of the individual, even the interest of self preservation, will not dominate them’ (LeBon, 1995). The taboo of violence persists despite attempts of social and political theorists to engage with the issue and understand different forms and contexts, from riots, to religious violence and terrorism. The aim of the module is to break this generalized taboo by tracing the role (explicit or implicit) of political violence in political theory and its function in processes of socio-political transformations and change. Critical engagement with contemporary theoretical and empirical debates around the issue and the examination of mass and new media representations of political violence will enable students to develop a sophisticated understanding of the origins, logics, perceptions and outcomes of political violence and conflict.

MEDIA, GLOBALISATION AND CULTURE

Code PPLM5003B

Credits 20

What role do media and communication play in processes of globalisation? How is an ever more global media creating cultural change? In this module you will explore the cultural implications of global media and culture by investigating audience practices and media representations. It begins by introducing the main theoretical approaches to mediated globalisation, before examining how these work in practice. Indicative topics include the power of global branding, global celebrity culture, global publics and local audiences, transnational cultures, and representations of migration.

LIES, ALGORITHMS AND CONCERTOS: UNDERSTANDING MEDIA AND CULTURAL POLICY

Code PPLM5005B

Credits 20

How should we deal with the dissemination of 'fake news'? What role do algorithms play in the media we consume, and is it concerning? What kind of government intervention is there in media markets and in cultural life and how does this get decided? This module will enable you to understand the dynamics and issues of media and cultural policy and how various levels of governance are involved in regulating media cultural sectors. The module will start by introducing you to public policy and policy making processes, covering multi-level governance, multi-stakeholderism, and the policy cycle. It will then enhance your understanding though deep dives into current issues in media and cultural policy, such as audiovisual media policy, arts institutions, net neutrality, harmful content on platforms, sports and premium content rights, urban regeneration through culture, evolving models of (self/co-)regulation. The module will draw on examples from across the globe and at various level including local, regional, national and supra-national policy making, with special efforts made to integrate ones from non-Western contexts. You will have the opportunity to work on real policy issues and practice professional skills in simulations and assessment activities. This module is for anyone interested in media and culture or in public policy in general. It covers topics that touch our daily lives so would be useful to anyone concerned about the shape of our society.

THE MEDIA AND IDENTITY

Code PPLM5042B

Credits 20

How do the media shape how we see ourselves? Or indeed how others see us? In a world of social media, self-branding and the increasing importance of mediated forms of identity, on this module you will explore critical ways of thinking about the relationship between culture, media and the self. Drawing on a range of theoretical approaches in the field of media and cultural studies, this module asks you to use research methods from autoethnography to content analysis to explore both their own identities and the way in which identities more broadly are formulated through contemporary media culture. Through discussing the representation of identity in media content, as well as issues of media production, regulation and consumption, you will critically reflect upon the relationship between media culture and social power and consider how social and technological changes impact on the ways in which identity is experienced in everyday life. On successful completion of this module, you should be able, at threshold level, to critically reflect upon the ways in which media texts construct social identity and should be able to discuss the relationship between media and identity with awareness for social, institutional and technological factors that shape both media production and consumption. Assessment is by group presentation and independent research project.

STATES, INSTITUTIONS AND CITIZENS

Code PPLX5162B

Credits 20

Political systems around the world are facing profound challenges and transformations. Established democracies in Europe and North America have seen the rise of populism, as marked by election of Donald Trump in the USA, the Brexit referendum in the UK or Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil. Democracy has also been in retreat in many states which democratised or partly democratised after the cold war such as Russia and Poland. At the same time, autocratic regimes in the Middle East and North Africa have come under pressure, with movements such as the Arab Spring signalling aspirations amongst many people for a more democratic system of governance. Meanwhile, there are new threats to democracy worldwide posed by the spread of 'dark money' in election campaigns and online misinformation. This module provides you with a critical understanding of how political systems vary around the world and the pressures facing them. It begins by focusing on the drivers of democratisation. It then proceeds to consider how political institutions such as the executive, legislature and the degree of decentralisation vary - and the effects that this has. Finally, we consider new trends in citizen's voting behaviour at the ballot box and pressure groups campaigning for change. You'll gain a critical awareness of current debates in comparative politics and develop key skills including critical evaluation, analytical investigation, written presentation, and oral communication.

PSI SEMESTER ABROAD MODULE

Code PPLX5166B

Credits 60

Students often say that spending a semester abroad expands their horizons and improves their career prospects. You will be able to judge this claim for yourself by completing this module. You’ll experience a different educational culture and develop new perspectives on learning. Assessed formatively and summatively by the host university and on successful completion of the semester abroad, you’ll have developed the knowledge and skills to study in a foreign academic environment with more confidence. Assessment will be in the foreign institution and you might be assessed via different methods depending on the institution you attend. To check eligibility criteria it is important that you liaise with our Study Abroad Team.

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Open Days

Important Information

The Course Director can support 40 credits off profile over the course of your degree.

Assessment for Year 3

You’ll have the opportunity to write a dissertation of 8-9000 words. You will select the topic, research question and methodology, under the guidance of an academic expert. There are also opportunities to partake in activist campaigns, write reflective essays, as well reports and select committee submissions.

Compulsory Modules

Optional A Modules

(30 credits)

POLITICS AND FOREIGN POLICY OF THE INDO-PACIFIC

Code PPLI6069A

Credits 30

This module will introduce you to important themes in international relations within the Asia Pacific, at a time when the region has assumed great importance. There will be a particular focus on the important historical periods in the relations between the USA, 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 you will address the knowledge of history, and of long-term themes, in the latter part of the module you will consider contemporary political issues. This will require you to develop an understanding of the interaction of the United States with Asia, and China and Japan in particular.

BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS

Code PPLX6041A

Credits 30

Would 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.

DISSERTATION MODULE

Code PPLX6042Y

Credits 30

The dissertation module gives you the opportunity to undertake research on a project of your own choosing under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The goal is to produce a dissertation of 8,000-9,000 words, which involves in-depth research on a specialist topic. An undergraduate dissertation represents a piece of independent research produced over an extended period and which demonstrates elements of originality in the selection of the topic, the use of sources and the analysis or argument contained within it. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the depth of your understanding of what you have learned across your degree course by applying concepts and theories from one or several modules to new contexts. You will be expected to attend a series of lectures in the autumn semester which provide general advice on the process of conducting a dissertation, as well as meeting your supervisor on a regular basis over the course of the year.

PARLIAMENTARY STUDIES

Code PPLX6099A

Credits 30

Want to know how the UK parliament really works? UEA is one of few universities to provide an official module in collaboration with the UK parliament. Taught in collaboration with Parliamentary staff— it offers advanced students first-hand knowledge of the way legislative and political institutions work. Along with providing a rigorous theoretical background, the module would provide students with an opportunity to discuss issues such as legislation, relations with the EU, political reforms, and parliamentary scrutiny with Members of Parliament and Parliamentary Staff, both in the classroom and in Parliament. The module would examine parliament from multiple perspectives: legal, institutional, and ideological, and places the British Parliament in the context of legislative institutions around the world.

Optional B Modules

(30 credits)

TERRORISM AND COUNTER-TERRORISM

Code PPLI6040B

Credits 30

Although the term terrorism goes back to the French revolution, it was rarely employed until the 1970’s. Contrast this with today when terrorism, it seems, is everywhere we look: in foreign policy decisions, military interventions, homeland security measures, legal frameworks, newspaper headlines, speeches and sermons, films and video games, and, of course, in university modules such as this. In this module, we engage in a critical exploration of terrorism, counter-terrorism, and the academic field of terrorism research. You will explore the history of terrorism, and engage in debates around the definition and character of terrorist violence. Is it possible, necessary, or even desirable to separate terrorism from other forms of violence, for instance? The module will introduce different perspectives on the causes, types, and threat of non-state terrorism. You will examine a range of strategies for countering terrorism, and their political and normative implications. The module also explores the emergence and contribution of critical terrorism studies, examining issues including state terrorism, gender and terrorism, cultural representations of terrorism, and the production and influence of terrorism ‘experts.’

BRITAIN AND EUROPE

Code PPLI6090B

Credits 30

Understanding Britain's relationship with the European Union and how the EU works is important in many jobs at local, national and international levels in the public, private and third (community and voluntary) sectors. The EU has been an integral part of the structures of governance of the UK and arguably will continue to impact the UK’s political, social and cultural life after Brexit. This module will enable you to understand the complex relationship between Britain and the rest of the EU as we attempt to explain the ambivalence of the British towards European integration. We also track Britain’s changing policy from aloofness to eventual accession in 1973 and the development of a reputation as an ‘awkward partner’. The module culminates in the decision in 2016 to pursue ‘Brexit’ by examining its impact, management and the wider consequences.

DISSERTATION MODULE

Code PPLX6042Y

Credits 30

Optional C Modules

(0-60 credits)

THE THIRD REICH

Code HIS-6028Y

Credits 60

In this module you’ll study the history of the Third Reich from an international and comparative perspective through the extensive use of primary sources. You’ll examine the origins and the rise of National Socialism, the seizure and consolidation of power, the nature and political structure of the dictatorship, and the transformation of German society under Nazi rule, but you’ll focus in particular on foreign policy and the impact of the regime’s policies on Europe and the world. You’ll explore Nazi Germany’s relationship with other autocracies and right-wing forces in Europe, German geopolitical thought and the role of the Foreign Office, the formation and administration of the Nazi empire, issues of collaboration and resistance in occupied territories, combat motivation and war crimes of ordinary soldiers, the importance of non-German perpetrators of the Holocaust, the German home front and the effects of Allied aerial bombings, the various plans for a post-war Europe, and the problem of ethnic cleansing both before and after 1945.

COMMUNISM AND NATIONALISM IN YUGOSLAVIA

Code HIS-6032Y

Credits 60

You will begin with a search for the origins of the Yugoslav idea, before turning to the Kingdom’s formation in 1918. The turbulent interwar years provide the indispensable backdrop to the second, communist, Yugoslavia. You shall explore the course of the Second World War and the bitter fighting between fascists, nationalists and communists which resulted in victory for Tito’s partisans. After 1945, they built a state which took an independent path to communism and survived until 1991. Yugoslavia then fragmented into ethnically homogenous states. In some cases this transition was largely peaceful, but wars in Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo witnessed bloody fighting and ethnic cleansing. You will look at the role of individuals, such as Slobodan Milošević, and end by assessing the international community's response to the crimes committed in the former Yugoslavia.

APPEASEMENT AND WAR: BRITAIN AND THE DICTATORS, 1935-1945

Code HIS-6072Y

Credits 60

The decade from 1935 to 1945 was one of the most tumultuous in global history. In this module, you’ll examine Britain’s peacetime diplomacy and wartime strategy, as it responded to three totalitarian powers: Germany, Italy and Japan. The policy of ‘appeasement’ adopted by the Baldwin and Chamberlain governments remains hugely controversial, and the subject of vigorous debate. Britain's role in the global war that erupted in 1939 has, similarly, fascinated historians ever since. In the autumn semester, you’ll explore the foreign policies adopted by Britain's 'National' Government, from Baldwin’s victory in the 1935 election to the outbreak of war in September 1939. You’ll consider why and how these policies were adopted, the wider political and economic context within which policy was made, and the national and international consequences. In the spring semester, you’ll examine Britain’s wartime role in the context of grand strategy and international politics. In addition to considering topics such as Churchill’s ‘finest hour’, we’ll spend some time examining the operation of the Grand Alliance and the series of wartime conferences between Britain and its allies. Throughout, you will explore the rich historiography of the period, and examine its complexities. We’ll draw upon a wide range of primary documentation, which will provide the basis of debate and discussion.

FRENCH REVOLUTION, , 1789-1804

Code HIS-6089Y

Credits 60

The French Revolution destroyed age-old cultural, institutional and social structures in France and beyond. Yet, in their attempt to regenerate humanity, the revolutionaries were creative as well as destructive, creating a new political culture with far-reaching implications. This special subject will provide an opportunity to study different aspects of the Revolution in depth. You will become familiar with the Revolution’s key political turning points and personalities from Maximilien Robespierre to Napoleon Bonaparte. But a great part of this special subject will be devoted to exploring the artistic, cultural and intellectual dimensions of this eventful period. In doing so, you will master the art of interpreting and contextualizing a variety of different kinds of primary sources, such as caricatures, constitutions, legislative decrees, philosophical tracts, artisan memoirs and private letters.

Optional D Modules

(0-30 credits)

AFRICAN AMERICANS AND EMPIRE

Code AMAH6041A

Credits 30

Racism knows no borders. African Americans have long been attuned to the international character of white supremacy. As the black intellectual and activist W.E.B. Du Bois noted at the dawn of the 20th century, racism in the United States “is but a local phase of a world problem.” You will examine the global character of the black freedom struggle in the United States. Historically denied full citizenship rights in the United States, African Americans often looked abroad in their fight against racial prejudice – connecting the struggle against Jim Crow to calls for colonial independence around the world. Over the course of the semester, you will explore how and why black Americans forged transnational alliances that challenged racism on a local and a global level. Covering connections between African Americans and movements for racial justice in Europe, Africa, South Asia, the Caribbean and beyond, you will be asked to critically engage with the global political outlook of prominent black figures, including Marcus Garvey, Claudia Jones, Huey Newton and Barack Obama. On successful completion of your module, you will have a broad knowledge of the global forces that have shaped African American history. In addition to this, you will be able to identify and engage with theories relating to transnational, diaspora and black Atlantic history. Finally, you will be able to critically reflect on how people and cultures are connected throughout the world.

IMPERIALISTS, PASHAS & REVOLUTIONARIES: IRAQ, 1914-2003

Code HIS-6020A

Credits 30

This module explores the eventful and troubled history of modern Iraq. Taking its starting point in the nineteenth century, when Iraq was part of the Ottoman Empire, the module explores how the country came under British tutelage following the Great War and how it subsequently experienced a turbulent history as various political actors sought to wrest control of the newly established state. The module pays special attention to key moments when the course of Iraq’s history changed, such as wars, military coups, and revolutions, but also periods in between when society returned to some sort of normality. It will particularly focus on the rise of political ideologies, especially Arab nationalism, and its local counterpart, Iraqi nationalism – but also other ideologies such as socialism, communism and Baᶜthism. Saddam Hussein’s domination of the country (1979-2003) is also an important element of the module.

Optional G Modules

(0-30 credits)

THE FIRST WORLD WAR: A NEW HISTORY

Code HIS-6051B

Credits 30

We will explore the impact of the First World War on European and non-European states, societies, and cultures. Our aim is to broaden and deepen the students’ knowledge by introducing some of the lesser known aspects of the conflict, such as the campaigns on the Eastern front, in Africa, or the Middle East. You will investigate the role and perception of colonial troops in the European theatre of war and examine the war efforts of such countries as Italy, Serbia, the Ottoman Empire, and Australia. Further topics to be discussed include alliance politics and the role of neutral states, psychological effects of ‘industrialised slaughter’, atrocities against non-combatant civilians, captivity and occupation, state propaganda and the spiritual mobilisation of intellectuals, as well as processes of social change with regard to home and family life, ethnicity and class. We will draw on a wide range of primary sources, including poems, paintings, and film. In their coursework, students will have the opportunity to study more specific issues, such as naval and aerial warfare, British military strategy, civil-military relations in democratic and autocratic states, medical innovations, the war experiences of children, or questions of memory and commemoration.

CONTESTING THE PAST: REPRESENTATION AND MEMORY

Code HIS-6077B

Credits 30

In this module, you will explore how the past is constantly constructed and reconstructed in the present. In the first part of the module we will consider how mnemonic processes are created, by who, and for what purpose. Commemoration, memorialisation, and visual representations form a key part of this process. In the second part of the module, we will study the ways in which individuals and groups remember and how this often differs from official or mediated discourses. In the third and final part, we will explore various ‘memory conflicts’ and their present day consequences. Throughout, film, photography, visual and audio media, and oral history will form key components of our studies.

POLITICAL JOURNALISM

Code PPLM6006B

Credits 30

This module introduces students to the practice of political journalism. Drawing on examples, both historical and recent it will explore how politics has been reported across all media. You will learn how to find, reserach and produce political stories and this module will prepare you for roles as a political reporter within established news organisations or if you wish to pursue a career in politics, public relations or lobbying. This is a priority module for Broadcast Journalism students. Students on other courses may take this module only if spaces are available

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Entry Requirements

A Levels

AAB including History or one of the following subjects: Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, English Literature, History of Art, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Film Studies, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Geography If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.

T Levels

Not accepted

BTEC

DDD alongside grade B at A-level in one of the following subjects: History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, English Literature, History of Art, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Film Studies, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies. Excludes BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration

Scottish highers

AAAAA including History or a related subject

Scottish highers advanced

BBC including History or a related subject

Irish leaving certificate

4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including History or a related subject

Access course

Access to Humanities & Social Sciences pathway. Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3

European Baccalaureate

80% including 7 in History or a related subject

International Baccalaureate

33 including HL 5 in one of the following subjects: English, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Geography, Theatre, Visual Arts, Film

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE. 

Additional entry requirements

UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.

We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.

If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our  Foundation Year programmes

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.

International Requirements

We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.

Students for whom english is a foreign language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading): 

IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study: 

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time. 

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application. 

Intakes

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year. 

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Course Reference Number: 6775049

BA (Hons) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND MODERN HISTORY