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 core unit situates the concept and practice of security within International Relations. The unit explores and distinguishes contending approaches to the study and practice of security, including traditional, national, critical and human security approaches, and examines how different approaches conceive of security referents, threats and challenges and prescribe security providers, responses, methods and policies. It also examines other key relationships between security and globalisation, transnationalism and regionalism, as well as core concepts such as the security dilemma, securitisation and security communities. Contemporary examples and cases are used to interrogate relationships between security theories, policies and practices.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Non-standard teaching periodUWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop and demonstrate advanced knowledge of core theories, concepts and practices in International Relations; (2) develop and demonstrate an advanced understanding of core methods of inquiry and research in International Relations; (3) develop and demonstrate an advanced understanding of important cross-cutting themes in International Relations; (4) develop and demonstrate advanced professional writing skills for careers in International Relations; (5) develop and demonstrate research competency and advanced analytical skills for careers in International Relations; and (6) develop and demonstrate professional communication and/or cross-cultural and/or behavioural and/or networking skills for careers in International Relations.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research essay; (2) policy briefing paper; and (3) seminar 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 Coordinator(s)
Ari Jerrems
Unit rules
Incompatibility
POLS8604 Problems of International Security.
POLS5642 Contemporary Issues in International Security
  • 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.