This module focuses on the evolution of security studies as a discipline and its implications for practice. We examine a variety of theoretical and empirical materials that provide students with the basis for analysing pressing questions related to issues of war, security and peace in the world today. This module thus provides a good grounding for understanding contemporary security challenges (such as the environmental degradation, conflict, gender-based insecurity, terrorism, mass surveillance and arms proliferation among others) and our responses to them. It will engage with debates around the 'broadening' and ‘deepening’ agenda of security studies, which has extended the scope of security studies beyond the nation-state, and the role of new security actors.
Private Study: 178
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 200
Compulsory to the following courses:
• Terrorism and Security MA
This module is available to all students on MA programmes within the School of Politics and International Relations.
Also available as an elective module.
Essay, 3500 words (70%)
Presentation (20%)
Weekly Participation reports (10%)
Reassessment Method: 100% Coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
1 Demonstrate a conceptual understanding by which to critically evaluate contending approaches to international security
2 Appreciate key issues and dynamics regard conflict and the use of force in international relations.
3 Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the theoretical debates about the meaning of security in international relations and their relationship to practice
4 Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of security studies and practice
5 Apply theoretical and conceptual frameworks to the analysis of politics and international relations
6 Use a variety of research methods and evaluate critically their application in the scholarly literature
7 Conduct research in politics and international relations demonstrating awareness of epistemological, methodological and ethical principles
8 Demonstrate a systemic understanding and critical awareness of the following issues in international security: energy security, peace building, war crimes, international law and intelligence.
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