Core Courses
International Relations Theory and Praxis:
This course explores the application of International Relations
theory to real-world political practices before and after
the Cold War. It elucidates how theoretical concepts can
effectively address and analyse the practical choices and
actions of states and other actors on the global stage.
Diplomatic Practice:
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the ecosystem within
which diplomacy operates. This ecosystem encompasses not only international relations
and foreign policy but also the roles of embassies, high commissions, consulates, special
missions, and trade and cultural offices. It examines various
aspects of diplomacy, including economic, cultural, diaspora,
passport and consular services, and military relations. While
diplomatic practice has undergone significant transformation,
it retains fundamental features such as the defence of national
interests and the essential roles of ambassadors. Through this
course, students will gain profound insights into the evolution
of diplomatic practices and understand how these enduring
elements continue to shape international relations.
Maritime security and Naval Strategy:
In this course, learners will develop a comprehensive
understanding of the prevailing maritime threats and challenges
of the 21st century, with a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific
region. The curriculum provides an overview of international
maritime law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea
(UNCLOS) and various International Maritime Organization (IMO)
conventions related to maritime safety and security. Additionally,
the course will explore naval strategies and examine the evolving
roles of world navies in the modern era.
Intelligence, War and Weapons: This course delves into the fundamentals of intelligence
gathering and examines contemporary warfare. It provides
insights into the significance of weapons and strategies
employed in various conflicts. The course covers both ancient
and modern warfare, with a special focus on the utility of
advanced weapon systems in defining the conflicts of the new era.
Foreign Policies of Great, Middle and Small Powers: This course enables learners to compare and contrast
the strategies of superpowers with those of weaker nations,
while fostering a deeper understanding of the underlying
motivations, power dynamics, and their impacts on global
stability and regional security.
Law and Ethics in International Relations:
In discussions of International Relations, topics often
centre around power, interests, and the cost-benefit analysis
of states and state actors. This course encourages learners to
examine various ethical dilemmas of the 21st century, including
debates on terrorism, torture, and humanitarian interventions.
It aims to equip learners with the tools to evaluate current
international practices through a moral lens.
Negotiating and Resolving International Conflicts:
The study of international conflicts is inherently complex,
characterised by multi-causality, diverse consequences,
and varying party motivations. This course provides an
overview of negotiation, peacebuilding, and conflict
transformation theories in the context of international
disputes. Learners will critically evaluate these theories
through global case studies, engage in practical peace design
exercises, and develop tools to assess actions in both internal
and inter-state conflicts.
Terrorism, Counterterrorism, and Unconventional Threats:
This course will explore the debates surrounding terrorism and
distinguish it from political violence. It will investigate
the factors contributing to the rise of terrorism and the
challenges of coordinated action against it. Detailed analyses
will focus on terrorist organisations active in Central Asia,
West Asia, South Asia, Europe, and Africa, with an emphasis on
their activities, resource mobilisation, and recruitment
strategies.
Admissions Open for April 2025
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