Strategic Studies

Main content:

Four inter-related taught modules and a summer dissertation of 12 – 15, 000 words linked to material considered in the taught modules.

The taught modules comprise (1) Strategic Theory, (2) International Organisations and the Use of Force, (3) European Security, and (4) Global Security.

(1) Strategic Theory: The contribution of strategy, as the mechanism for the application of power and force, to the national security objectives of states is considered. Topics addressed include deterrence, preventive war, arms control, economic sanctions, and terrorism.

(2) International Organisations and the Use of Force: The role of international security organisations in the management of force and international law is examined. Organisations considered include the United Nations, NATO, OSCE, the EU and the AU.

(3) European Security: The institutional and strategic features of post-Cold War security arrangements for the European continent are investigated. Topics include Russian security policies towards Europe, US – European relations, and European Security and Defence Policy.

(4) Global Security Issues: The nature and condition of extra-European security in recent times, and likely developments, are analysed. Topics include US global strategy, political Islam, Gulf security challenges, China’s world role, Japanese security policy, African insecurity, and India’s foreign and defence policies.

Special features:

It scrutinises salient, real-world security issues which challenge governments, armed services, international organisations, and business around the world.

This long-established degree programme of high repute has produced graduates with excellent career prospects for over thirty years, and there is a network of alumni throughout the international system.

The programme curriculum is regularly reviewed and refreshed by the course director, who has guided the degree for over twenty five years.

The student body is international, with many countries represented.

Classes are limited in size to normally no more than twenty five, allowing personal attention and effective access to tutors.

Who teaches on this programme:

A small and cohesive group of very skilled academic staff with many decades of graduate teaching and supervision experience, who are part of an international network of high quality academics in strategic studies, international security, and international law.