The central aim of the course is to develop an understanding of how different theories explain international politics and which are most persuasive. Theories are important because they define how we see the world and respond to it. We all use theory every time we think or talk about international relations (or any subject!). Our principal tasks in this course are to explicitly disentangle these theories, evaluate the logics behind them, and assess their merits and shortcomings. Although the term "theory" is often seen as dull, intimidating, or irrelevant, this course aims to refute these misconceptions. Theory is interesting, intuitive, and essential for understanding the world. While our general focus will be on theory, the course is designed to use theory to address an array of policy-relevant issues. Why do wars occur, and how can they be avoided? Are democracies really more peaceful than other types of governments? Where do international institutions come from, and do they promote cooperation? What is the relationship between states' economic and security policies? Can humans use ideas and cultural values to overcome barriers to peace and cooperation?
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- understand the major theoretical approaches to central problems of world politics, e.g. war, diplomacy, coercion, environmental governance, and terrorism;
- be able to critically evaluate theoretical propositions using rigorous logic, and determine what evidence would be needed to support or refute theoretical propositions;
- apply different theoretical approaches to analyse international political outcomes; and
- compare, critique, and evaluate alternative theories of international relations against each other.
Indicative Assessment
- Tutorial participation (10) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- 800 word essay 1 (15) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- 800 word essay 2 (35) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- Examination 2 hours [in formal examination period] (35) [LO 1,2,3]
- Weekly practice exam questions/diagrams (5) [LO 1,2,3,4]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
130 hours of total student learning time made up from:
a) 36 hours of contact over 12 weeks: 24 hours of lectures/interactive activities, and 12 hours of tutorials; and
b) 94 hours of independent student reading, writing and diagramming.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Not required.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 14
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $4680 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $6360 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9214 | 21 Jul 2025 | 28 Jul 2025 | 31 Aug 2025 | 24 Oct 2025 | In Person | N/A |