International Politics
Overview
This unit provides an introduction to foundational concepts and theories of international politics and their application to historical and contemporary case studies, which will include war and peace, security, power, political economy and globalization. It focuses on the relationship and interaction between state and non-state actors in global politics, as well as compares and contrasts the various approaches that explain and interpret events. The unit also critically assesses and analyses the foundational theories, concepts and approaches in their underlying assumptions and outcomes.
Requisites
08-June-2025
08-February-2026
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Critically review the major institutions, actors, and issues shaping world politics
- Demonstrate knowledge of the major theories and concepts used in the study of international politics
- Understand how political scientists analyse and explain international politics
- Apply theories of international politics to empirical case studies
- Present clear arguments based on research and evidence and evaluate arguments in terms of their strengths and weaknesses, both independently and with others
Teaching methods
Swinburne Online
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Online Class | 1.00 | 4 weeks | 4 |
| Specified Activities Various | 8.00 | 12 weeks | 96 |
| Unspecified Activities Various | 4.17 | 12 weeks | 50 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Literature Review | Individual | 20% | 1,2,3,4,5 |
| Major Essay | Individual | 50% | 1,2,3,4,5 |
| Minor Essay | Individual | 30% | 1,2,3,4,5 |
Content
- Introduction to the foundational theories of international relations
- Key concepts in international politics relating to war and conflict, the role of the state and global institutions, structures and agents
- Analysis of globalization and global change
- Case studies of contemporary international issues and problems
- Critical assessment of foundational methodologies
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.