International Diplomacy - Msc

at Keele University

Core Modules

SEMESTER 1 CORE MODULES

PIR-40095 Research in Action (15 credits)

Setting the scene for your master’s programme, this module provides an in-depth and hands-on advanced introduction to the various ways in which advanced empirical research in the social sciences is designed and conducted. You’ll be given an overview of key research methodologies and the different approaches to evidence and data gathering, including interviews, focus groups, questionnaires, documents and texts, as well as the ethical considerations when carrying out such activity. Staff currently engaged in research will offer guidance about the suitability of certain design methods, sharing their experiences of good practice and potential pitfalls. Working in small teams, you’ll then design and conduct your own small-scale practical research project, for example, examining perceptions of peacekeeping, attitudes towards humanitarian intervention in Libya, or perceptions of the global war on terror.
 

PIR-40136 International Diplomacy (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of the field of diplomatic studies, introducing you to the ideas and concepts of contemporary diplomacy and the ways this relates to the complex process of policy making, both domestic and international. Focusing on non-Western cases and non-traditional actors, it offers a cutting-edge approach to the study of diplomacy, examining the evolution of the field of diplomatic studies, diplomacy within states, between states and citizens. You will look at how diplomacy is conducted and regulated across a range of international transactions, including negotiation, multinational conferences, the creation of international organisations, the evolution of international trade, covert diplomacy and international norms and regulations.

SEMESTER 2 CORE MODULE

PIR-40132 Advanced Approaches to Politics and International Relations (30 credits)

In preparation for your dissertation, this module provides an overview of the philosophies, assumptions and approaches underlying the study of Politics and International Relations topics. It aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to handle different concepts, frameworks and methods (normative and analytical) and use these in the generation of knowledge for your research project. Adopting an intensive workshop approach, you will examine how scholars have approached the issues of what to study and how to study, and the ways in which these issues are bound up with historical and current power structures within the world. For example, considering the nature of social science knowledge or key trends in Politics and International Relations, such as rational choice theory, game theory, institutional theory chaos and complexity theory.
 

ACADEMIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You should have a first or a good second-class honours degree or it's equivalent. Your undergraduate degree should be in a related subject. 
 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ENTRY REQUIREMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Where English is not a first language, evidence of english language competence will be required (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-test). 

International - Full time £16,800 per year
 

Preparing you to analyse international affairs and contribute to the development of better world relations, you could work for a political party, campaign or lobby group or pursue advisory and management roles in central or local government, charities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), international organisations, social research organisations, think tanks and universities.
 

Specialist routes include: diplomacy; public policy; development politics; conflict resolution and mediation; human rights and social justice; environmental politics; sustainable development; international law; international security; and cross-cultural communication.
 

The advanced research and cross-cultural communication skills you develop on this course, together with a critical insight into global concerns, politics, economics, governance and advocacy, place you in an excellent position to pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and voluntary sectors.
 

Our graduates follow a wide range of careers, working for governments, think tanks and NGO's as diplomats, advisors and consultants, as well as moving into broader fields, such as journalism and banking. Many of our alumni return to Keele to share their experiences with current students. Recent speakers, for example, have included a BBC correspondent, former British Ambassador and Governor of the Virgin Islands and former UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Somalia.
 

The personal and professional skills learned on this philosophy degree include clear and analytical thinking, originality, problem-solving, persuasive writing and speaking, innovative questioning and effective reasoning, all of which can open a wide range of careers.