ISSSV1855 – International Politics

This course offers an introduction to the academic study of international politics. Why do states go to war? How can we ensure international cooperation? Does international law really work? What are tariffs and how do they function? Will we ever solve the climate crisis on a global level? In order to approach answering these complex questions, students will build a foundation of theoretical knowledge in the discipline of International Relations and develop skills to analyze global politics from a scientific perspective.

Content focus areas:

• International Relations theory
• Small states in global politics
• Foreign policy and grand strategy of Nordic states
• Contemporary issues in world politics

Knowledge:

Students will gain a working knowledge of:

• The application of the scientific method to the study of politics.
• Conventional and critical theories of International Relations.
• The challenges and opportunities faced by Nordic states in world politics.

Skills:

Students work focuses on development in the following skill areas:

• Close reading of theoretical texts
• Critical evaluation of empirical research
• Strategies for respectful and productive discussion of politics

Competences:

• Note-taking
• Public speaking
• Performance under pressure
• Strategic thinking

If you would like to take this course, you must apply directly to International Summer School

Only students admitted to the course may take part in instruction.

The course consists of 26 lectures, 2 hours daily, Monday to Friday, for four weeks. This course relies on lecture-based instruction paired with large group discussion. Students will also engage in an immersive simulation to apply learning by "doing" international politics. Visits from subject matter experts and excursions to sites significant to the course themes will be integrated into the course when possible.

Active participation throughout the course is expected of the students, and attendance during lectures, seminars and discussions is required. Students must attend a minimum of 75% of the lectures in order to take the final exam.

The course includes a final written examination, which lasts for 2 hours.

You can check your results and order transcripts in StudentWeb three weeks after the exam.