2025/6 HIS-6082A Grand Strategy

Autumn Semester, Level 6 module, Credits: UCU 30

Organiser: Professor T.G. Otte

Assessment Type: Coursework

Grand Strategy means ‘big picture’ or ‘long-term’ thinking. The core emphasis of Grand Strategy is to secure the long-term security, peace and prosperity of a nation. It does not get bogged down in theory but instead asks: how we got to this point, and in what direction should we go in the future? Grand Strategy combines all the traditional elements of War Studies – history, strategy, statecraft, warfare, and diplomacy. It is not about ‘hard’ versus ‘soft’ power but understanding how they all these things come together to serve the long-term goals of a nation, or a group of nations. It also emphasises the role play played by strategists in changing the course of history. The module is ideal for those students who want to think deeply and read widely about history but want to apply their knowledge to the type of problems faced by Prime Ministers and Presidents in the past, present and future. It requires an ability to understand the grand sweep of history and a willingness to apply that knowledge.