Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit explores and critically analyses the international politics of Africa, drawing on historical developments to examine the continent's contemporary dynamics. We first examine key concepts and contexts—including the slave trade, colonialism, the Cold War, pan-Africanism, the state and the global political economy—that have shaped and help us to understand contemporary African actors and their regional and international relations. We then interrogate key relationships between African states, the African Union, and major external actors including the US, EU, China and the UN, examining key themes including regional integration, geopolitics, natural resources, security and equality. The final part of the unit examines the negotiating positions, diplomatic strategies, agency and impacts of African actors on the contemporary global governance agenda, including in sustainable development, climate and trade negotiations.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 option in the Political Science and International Relations; International Cybersecurity major sequences
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate advanced knowledge about the nature of Africa's international politics and the functions of different African and non-African actors, institutions and policies; (2) critically explain and evaluate relevant ideas, theories and concepts that seek to explain relationships between Africa and the international system; (3) creatively apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to independently and collaboratively address challenges, crises and change in Africa's relations with the international system; (4) competently apply basic Political Science and International Relations methods and skills to designing and executing research on Africa's international politics; and (5) effectively communicate knowledge, ideas, analyses and arguments about Africa's international politics in different formats.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) critical review essay; (2) research essay; and (3) tutorial participation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit rules
Prerequisites
12 points of Social Sciences and/or Humanities study at level 2
Advisable prior study
Level 1 and 2 POLS units
Contact hours
3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.