International Conflict MSc

This course will provide you with a substantial grounding in the theory and history of international conflict and of intra- and inter-state disputes in the contemporary international system. It explores the multidisciplinary theoretical roots of international conflict, drawing on contributions from subjects such as international relations, politics, economics, sociology and history.

This course also enables you to examine and analyse the various issues and dynamics that shape and influence conflict in the modern world, as well as explore the practical tools available to manage and resolve conflict.

What will you study?

The course is split into three stages. In the first stage you will look at the theory and history behind international conflict at all levels of interaction, from the interpersonal to the international. You will also have the chance to examine the way in which conflict manifests itself in the contemporary international system and the techniques available to manage and resolve violent disputes, including peacekeeping, mediation and negotiation.

In the second stage you will examine practical examples of ways in which conflict has been managed by studying several specific case studies. You will also explore a number of key questions relating to conflict, such as the role of religion and gender in conflict, weapons proliferation, the function of outside actors, and the effects of conflict on civilian populations.

In stage three you will build on what you have learnt and apply your skills in a piece of original research of 12,000-15,000 words.

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Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Core modules

• Case Studies in International Conflict
• Conflict Theory and Analysis
• Contemporary Issues in Conflict and Security
• Dissertation
• Managing and Resolving International Conflict
• Research Skills and Methods in Social Sciences

Optional modules

• Britain's Role in the World since 1900
• Crimes of the Powerful
• Foundations and Frameworks of Human Rights
• Human Rights Actors and Activities
• Political Communication, Advocacy and Campaigning
• The Politics of Conflict: The New Tribalism?
• The Politics of Mass Murder
• Themes in Latin American Politics
• Theories of International Relations
• US Foreign Policy in an Age of Terror
• Work Placement
• Defining and Protecting Human Rights
• Europe in the Contemporary World
• Human Rights and Political Violence
• International Political Economy
• Media, Public Policy and International Politics
• Nationalism and Modernity
• Strategies for Achieving Human Rights
• The Politics of Nationalism in the Contemporary Middle East

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International Conflict students benefit from the input of visiting speakers with a number of presentations by leading figures.
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