BACHELOR OF ARTS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Introduction

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations Programme covers broad themes and theories associated with the study of international relations, such as the state system, development, security, conflict and globalisation. The interdisciplinary curriculum is built on the disciplines of politics, economics and development, law and history and enables students to understand the complex dynamics, core debates, processes, institutions and major challenges of International Affairs. As a student of international relations, you will be taught by well qualified academics with distinctive expertise in their various fields of study, such as foreign policy and diplomacy, international political economy, international law and international security and intelligence. You will study international relations through the lens of both historical and contemporary examples, from the 1870s ‘Scramble for Africa’ through to the Cold War, the origins of the War on Terror, the global financial crisis and the Arab Spring, and learn how to apply theories to reflect on their relevance. You will be introduced to political concepts, theories, ideologies and analysis in your first year. As you progress in your studies you will choose from a wide range of module options, covering national and global issues. In the end, you will be equipped with the broad-ranging tools and skills to understand, analyse and assess the most pressing issues in national and global politics. As a student of International Relations, you will not only acquire the knowledge needed for a career in International Affairs, but also develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills as well as the ability to apply theories and concepts learned to real-life problems.

Rationale

1. Globalization has created demand of high quality graduates in international relations to solve global problems. The conventional study of politics which is highly theoretical in responding to politically-related problems is now being replaced by contemporary and practical study of politics. This programme therefore provides a nursery for skilled human resource in international relations to solve global problems.

2. The development of International Relations as a distinct degree programme at the University of Zambia prepare students with deep understanding of theories and themes of international politics and provide contemporary methods of solving global political problems.

3. Taking into consideration international structure of international relations as a field of study, this programme has been developed to enable students not only to understand theories but also to equip them with practical and analytical skills necessary for challenges facing the globe. 

   Aims of the programme

   The aim of the programme is to enable students to acquire and apply theoretical and practical approaches in resolving challenges facing the international system. Specifically, students will be able to show a critical understanding of:

          a) In depth understanding of theories and themes in international relations;

          b) To enhance students’ capacity in research skills appropriate in resolve international problems.

          c) To train students to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career in                    International Relations.

          d) Students will become familiar with the methodological and normative underpinnings of these disciplines.

          e) Analytical and policy literature concerning key actors in the international system and the roles they play

           f) The development of a range of academic and professional/transferrable skills through both independent and group-                        based work. 

Objectives of the programme

At the end of the programme students are expected to:

1. Show in-depth understanding of theoretical and practical approaches to international relations
2. Analyse and explain various theoretical and policy tools in the context of international relations since the end of the Cold War
3. Apply various social science scientific methods in resolving various challenges facing the international system
4. Improve awareness and knowledge of current issues in the field of international relations
5. Evaluate new developments in the field of international relations.