Synopsis
With a paradigm shift in the political powers of today, the MSc (International Relations) programme is an integrative discipline that aims to equip students with the ability to decipher international relations theories and develop their own concepts to deal with real-world situations.Objectives
The M.Sc. (International Relations) programme is designed to help students better comprehend the ever-changing international scene. This programme aims to:- Develop international relations analysts who will be familiar with pressing strategic issues in the Asia-Pacific and beyond;
- Introduce contemporary thinking across a whole spectrum of strategic and security-related issues;
- Convey a systematic understanding of the theories that explain the nature of interactions between states as well as non-state actors in an increasingly globalised international system;
- Provide a sound basis for policy analysis in an increasingly complex world.
Relevance
Today, security no longer revolves solely around the military. Economic and ecological concerns, migration and other nonmilitary issues have begun to feature prominently in the security agenda. Against the backdrop of this transitional environment, conflict management has become more challenging. The relevance and dominance of traditional approaches to security and order are being challenged by concepts of common, comprehensive and cooperative security. At the same time, global and regional multilateral institutions are experimenting with new techniques of dealing with conflict, such as preventive diplomacy and humanitarian intervention, often with mixed results.Benefits
It is vital for professionals in the fields of defence and foreign relations to not only be conversant with the new security concepts and strategic theories, but also well-acquainted with the intricacies of strategic planning, design and policy analysis. Such knowledge is also useful for corporate planners grappling with the complexities of globalisation.Content
The M.Sc. (International Relations) programme has been specially designed to cover a broad spectrum of issues, including- Theories of International Relations;
- The making of foreign policy;
- Business planning and technology management;
- Area studies, specifically on the Asia-Pacific region.
Students are required to take two core courses. In addition, Masters students completing a dissertation must take five extra courses (three primary and two electives), while those in the non-dissertation stream must take seven courses (five primary and two electives).