MSc Global Energy and Climate Policy (Online Learning)

Students will study two core modules and a range of elective modules on offer each session. There are also four research mini modules.

• 2 x core modules (30 credits each)
• 2 x elective modules (30 credits each)
• 4 x research mini modules
• 1 x dissertation (60 credits)

You will study the key themes and approaches in the study of global energy and climate policy as two closely interrelated global challenges. You will investigate international regime formation and diplomatic landscapes in the energy and climate change fields, analyse the geopolitical dimensions of energy supply and demand, and examine regulatory approaches to cutting greenhouse gases.

Gain an understanding of public policy making in a context of intensifying globalisation and transnational political contestation. You will undertake rigorous and critical analysis of policy and the complex processes by which it is formulated, adopted and implemented.

This is an opportunity for students to produce a sustained piece of individual, academic research on their chosen topic within the field of (global) energy and/or climate policy under the guidance of one of CISD’s expert academics.

Students are able to indicate three preferred modules from the below list for each elective session. These are subject to availability.

A range of additional modules specific to Global Energy and Climate Policy adapted from and added to current campus modules are in development. These include: Global Environmental Law and Governance, Green Finance and Investment, Energy Policy in the Asia-Pacific, and Energy Diplomacy and Geopolitics, subject to final administrative approval.

You will learn about the key concepts of diplomacy and the institutional development of diplomatic relations. You will also be introduced to the strategy and tactics of negotiation and its place in international relations between states.

You will examine the various approaches to the study and understanding of American foreign policy. Beginning with an introduction to relevant literature and influences, the module goes on to address US foreign policy-making process. Case-studies will be included, covering both the Cold War and post-Cold War eras. The module will culminate in an assessment of the nature, extent and likely development of American global power.

You will learn about the conditions in which diplomacy is stimulated and the nature of different diplomatic systems that arise as a result of variations in these conditions. You will also study historical and contemporary case studies from Byzantium to Ancient Greece and from the French system to a transatlantic system of diplomacy.

This module aims to introduce students to key themes in investment, the role of capital in changing historical investment paths to underpin a sustainable and low carbon economic framework and the development of climate finance. Those engaged in action on climate change require an understanding of finance in order to create effective global energy and climate policies, which can use finance and investment frameworks to change historical patterns of fossil-fuel dependent economic growth models.

Foundations of International Law is an introductory module suitable for those who have not previously studied either law or international law. It aims to introduce students both to the 'building blocks' of international law and to basic legal research and writing skills. Students will also be encouraged to think critically about the rule and role of international law in international affairs.

Develop an understanding of how to influence policy at an international level and how to affect policy changes to meet the aims of non-governmental and international organisations. You will look at how to achieve change at a global level, networking across national boundaries and on global issues.

Examine the context of the United Nations (UN) and the UN system within other International Organisations (IOs). You will examine the ways in which International Organisations came into being and how they evolved into the United Nations Organisation in 1945. Learn how the UN system has changed in recent years, and what the short and medium-term effect of these changes are likely to be with particular attention on peacekeeping, collective security, and human rights.

You will learn about the theory of international economics and become familiar with the practice of international economic relations through the study of current policy debates about the workings of the contemporary international economy.

Focusing on developments since the end of the Cold War, you will be given the analytical tools to think critically and independently about the nature of contemporary international security. You will consider a range of contemporary security issues including terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, the Iraq War and the future of the Middle East, and the prospects for peace and security in the 21st century.

This module is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the nature and development of multinational corporations (MNC) and to view this as an evolving and changing process that has contemporary significance in international studies. MNCs control much of global trade and financial flows. The course will allow students to critically analyse the inter-relationships between MNC operations and their impact in international studies and diplomacy through the use of relevant theoretical and empirical literature.

An insight into the diversity of Muslim minority communities at a time when political shifts in Muslim majority countries – such as Turkey, Afghanistan, Iran and across the MENA region – have put Muslim minorities into the spotlight and impacted upon their relationship with host countries. You will trace the emergence and development of Muslim minorities in both Western and non-Western contexts, and examine how Muslims have forged new identities as they have negotiated their places within their host societies.

Since the era of the ancient Olympic Games, sporting competition has assisted human societies in mediating estrangements, resolving conflict and sublimating competitive urges. You will analyse how sports and diplomacy interrelate and consider how international sporting institutions have functioned as non-state actors in diplomacy, from antiquity to the present day.

The area of strategic studies is increasingly relevant in light of conflicts in the past decade in Ukraine, Georgia, Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Sudan, Iraq and Afghanistan. You will address a range of strategic influences such as power and force, asymmetric/irregular warfare, and the role of security providers such as NATO. The relationship between strategy and policy will be explored through a series of case studies including US involvement in Vietnam and conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules