Principles and Practice of Policy and Governance

This course offers advanced theory and practice of policy making and governance in the not-for-profit, public policy and public and private sectors. The first part of the course will provide foundational knowledge of the principles, theories and historical dimensions of policy analysis and governance. The second part of the course will be composed of a series of intensive professional seminars and case studies, providing students with detailed practical insights into the practical world of giving advice and making decisions while working within the context of a political environment constrained by other institutions, time and resources.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

Principles and Practice of International Relations and Diplomacy

This course offers a blend of theoretical and practical insight into international relations and diplomacy. The first part of the course will provide foundational knowledge of the principles, theories and historical dimensions of foreign policy and diplomacy. The second part of the course will be composed of a series of intensive professional seminars, providing students with detailed practical insights into complex and difficult cases in international relations and diplomacy through the experiences of those involved in them.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

ILAP614

Policy and Governance in the Pacific and New Zealand

This course provides an advanced introduction to policy making and governance challenges in small states, with a particular focus on New Zealand and the small states of the Pacific. Students will be introduced to Pacific and New Zealand political economy/development/challenges, building on insights into the cultural capital, opportunities and risks (environmental, social and economic) that these communities face. Through regional case studies of policy development and governance and seminars with practitioners and community leaders, students will also have opportunities to gain experience in locally led problem solving.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

POLS402

Policy Issues in Science and Technology

This course focuses on the analysis and evaluation of comparative national policies for science, technology and the environment. Scientific innovation and investment are crucial to both economic and environmental sustainability, but the dynamics of policy-making in this domain often lead to public mistrust and conflict. Based on the case study method, this course will examine STEP with reference to issues such as: geo-engineering and climate change; energy policy; autonomous machines and the robotic revolution; and advanced biotechnologies for human health and the environment.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

COMS443

International Human Rights

This course examines the growth of the human rights movement over the past 70 years and problems associated with creating a universal set of human rights norms. Contemporary challenges will be examined with a particular emphasis on the Global South.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

POLS405, DIPL405, ILAP662, POLS420 and DIPL418 prior to 2014

China's Emergence as a Global Great Power

Covering China’s international relations, government policy-formation process and contemporary institutions, this course will use an issues-based approach to help students develop a thorough understanding of China's emergence as a global great power and the global implications of this.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

POLS406 and DIPL406

Supervised Research Paper

In this course, students explore a research topic of their choice under the supervision of an appropriate staff member, subject to approval by the Programme Director. Students will be required to attend seminars in preparation for their independent research, and will also make presentations of their research during the year. This course is compulsory for all POLS Honours students. Students are recommended to submit some potential research topics to the honours coordinator upon enrolment.

30 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

Supervised Research Paper A

This is part A of the Supervised Research Paper for students beginning their Honours degree in Semester 2.

15 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

POLS480

Supervised Research Paper B

This is part B of the Supervised Research Paper for students beginning their Honours degree in Semester 2.

15 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

POLS480

MA Dissertation

MA Dissertation

60 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

Dissertation

A supervised, independent research project

60 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

Thesis

A supervised, independent research thesis.

90 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

MA Thesis

120 points

Subject to approval of the Head of Department.

Individual Course of Study: Dissertation A

30 points

Subject to the approval of the Head of Department

Individual Course of Study: Dissertation B

-

30 points

Subject to the approval of the Head of Department