International Relations (East Asia)

Entry requirements

• UK 2.1 Bachelor degree, or equivalent.
• A degree in the field of Social Sciences is preferable, however, in assessing the application we also take into account other facilitating factors such as relevant experience in lieu of this requirement.
• Two satisfactory academic references. In cases of applicants who have significant relevant experience, one work-related reference and one academic reference would be considered appropriate.

Months of entry

October

Course content

This course provides you with the systematic knowledge and intellectual tools to critically review developments in the theory and practice of international relations. It will enable you to evaluate in a sophisticated and critical fashion concepts, theories and paradigms within the broad field of international relations, drawing lessons from empirical studies involving both quantitative and qualitative investigations.

You will develop the ability to deploy research strategies and methods in an appropriately advanced fashion to critically evaluate current research and advanced scholarship. Each study route aims to provide advanced knowledge and understanding of the dynamics, including cultural and local political and ideological factors, which shape the contemporary international relations of the area.

The course also provides an opportunity for studying international relations in comparative and historical perspective taking account of regional specific political and economic factors.

Core modules:

• International Relations Theory OR International Organisation
• Dissertation
• The Politics of East Asia

Examples of optional modules:

You can choose two options (which may include the following):

• Core Concepts in Political Science
• Global Governance
• Global Political Theory
• The Politics of the European Union
• Designing Political Inquiry
• International Politics of the Middle East
• Ideologies and Political Thought
• Contemporary Political Philosophy

A 20 credit language module is allowed to be taken with all the courses as long as it is agreed with the Programme Director.

Information for international students

If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.

Fees and funding

For further information see the course listing.