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.