About the course
War remains a matter of life and death, and although defined by violence, war is a rational tool of policy.
The process by which military power is translated into policy effect is strategy. This degree covers theory and practice of strategy, including land, sea and air power; terrorism and insurgency; nuclear strategy; technology and war; and ethics. The theory of strategy is tested against historical and contemporary case studies, which include Alexander the Great, Napoleon, the First and Second World Wars, Vietnam and the war in Afghanistan.
This MA will give you the confidence to turn your ideas into action – you’ll learn the techniques involved with managing crises, including making decisions, dealing with consequences and achieving resolution. This programme will give you transferable knowledge and skills for a wide variety of careers, but especially in fields such as the military, security and risk analysis.
What you'll study
This MA covers the history and concepts of the strategic studies discipline. You’ll study strategic theory, using historical and contemporary case studies to clarify what theoretical concepts mean in practice. You’ll also learn up-to-date approaches to strategic studies, along with more general skills in writing, research, public speaking and logical analysis.
This programme is made up of core and optional modules, as well as a 15,000 word dissertation.
All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.
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Strategic Studies: Theory and Practice
Learn how strategy works, why it's so difficult to get right and how to ensure best practice. Ultimately, this module is about how to win wars and achieve objectives in the face of the enemy. We explore and illustrate the theory through case studies – from the conflicts of Alexander the Great to those of today.
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Power and the State in International Politics
This module explores the changing role of the state and the nature of power and ethics in the international system. You'll select three thematic blocks (from a choice of nine), which reflect current global problems and academic expertise.
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Challenges in International Politics
This module addresses some of the challenges for effective, democratic and ethical global governance. It engages with the issues for states and other international agents of global political change and interdependence.
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Approaches to Research
Extend your understanding of a range of research techniques and skills for the study of politics. This module provides everything you'll need for conducting research in your area of interest – from conducting interviews and focus groups to analysing statistical data and texts.
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15,000-word Dissertation
Which subject fascinates you? The 15,000-word dissertation lets you research that topic in depth under the guidance of a supervisor.