mini´«Ã½

The degree provides a firm grounding in diplomatic theory and practice. It covers the history and operation of diplomacy; the causes of conflict and strategies for conflict resolution; the nature and operation of international organisations, including the United Nations and its agencies; the development and global role of supranational organisations, especially the European Union (with an emphasis on its external policies); global political communication, including the media and new forms of communication; the practice of great power politics.

It is taught from the Centre for United Nations Studies.

A graduate in this programme should be able to:
1. Analyse international institutions and their practices, especially the United Nations;
2. Apply strategies for resolving conflicts, with special reference to the UN;
3. Explain the evolution of diplomacy and distinguish different types of diplomacy and diplomatic practice;
4. Conceptualise different forms of global communication;
5. Locate diplomacy within the wider context of international relations.

The programme is consistent with the QAA benchmark statement on the generic features of a Master’s degree. Specifically it falls under Category 2: specialised/advanced degree. It is a taught degree and contains research training. Research training is delivered through the individual modules and in classes supporting the Dissertation. The degree contains a significant research project. It carries 180 units (all at Level 7).

Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each course unit/module can be found in the departmental or programme handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed annually by the mini´«Ã½ and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency.