COURSE CURRICULUM

The International Politics program at the University of Stirling provides a structured and comprehensive study of global political systems, theories, and contemporary issues over four years. In the first year, students build a foundation with compulsory modules such as People, Power, and the State and Political Concepts and Ideas, while selecting option modules from a wide range of subjects including economics, computing, science, and environmental studies, fostering interdisciplinary knowledge. The second year deepens understanding with core modules in Understanding International Politics, Great Political Thinkers, and Comparative Politics, alongside optional modules that allow students to broaden their academic perspectives in areas like business, information management, and science. In the third year, students focus on advanced topics in international politics with compulsory modules in International Politics and Research Methods, while selecting from options including global development, nations and nationalism, global political economy, politics of justice and rights, and terrorism studies, ensuring a strong analytical and research-oriented skill set. The final year emphasizes independent research through the International Politics dissertation, continued from semester one to semester two, alongside optional modules that enable further specialization in areas such as leadership, political Islam, global development, and policymaking. Throughout the program, students combine theoretical knowledge, research skills, and practical analysis, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, policy, and related global sectors.