Conflict and Diplomacy

Module description

This module aims to foster an understanding of two central concerns of International Relations – the recurrence of conflict and the role of diplomacy in relations between international political actors. Through the study of crucial case studies in contemporary conflict and diplomacy, the course enables students to critically analyse the actors, structures and processes that shape foreign and security policy making. It also explores the changing character of modern conflict, the role of conflict resolution processes and the nature of diplomatic relations between major powers. 

Assessment details

Group Presentation (33%)

2000-word Essay (67%)

Educational aims & objectives

This course places a particular emphasis on skills development and the enabling of students to:

• engage in independent learning
• extend their capacity for critical thinking
• develop their writing, communication and teamwork skills 

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the module, students will

• have completed a number of exercises, introducing them to a variety of practical and academic skills, including research, essay writing, reviewing, class participation, oral presentation, working in groups, and effective time management
• have begun to reflect on their learning and development, gaining awareness of their own capabilities and actively engaging in their own skills development
• have developed a broad understanding of the relationship between conflict and diplomacy in International Relations
• be able to identify and critically assess different interpretations of several critical cases of contemporary conflict and diplomacy
• be able to critically analyse the actors, structures and processes that shape foreign and security policy-making
• have insight into the complexity of policy-making and problem-solving through, for example, reading participant accounts, academic and policy texts

Teaching pattern

This module will be delivered over ten weeks via five 2-hour lectures, each of which is supported by a 2-hour seminar. The module convenor will give the lectures, while the seminars will be run by graduate teaching assistants. The design of the module ensures that you will be able to engage with the learning material and receive feedback on your progress. 

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.