Oslo, Norway

International Politics

The course offers an introduction to the academic study of international politics. It begins with a basic introduction to international relations theories, in order to provide the theoretical framework for understanding and debating global topics. The course will then move on to discussing three main subjects in contemporary international relations: The role of state actors, the role of non-state actors, and finally going in-depth on a couple of current global topics. In the section on state actors we will undertake detailed studies of the foreign policies of the U.S., Russia, China, Norway and others. For the part of non-state actors the focus will be on topics like international institutions, the EU, global action groups, and international terrorism. For the final section of the course we will then utilize the empirical and analytical knowledge gathered to analyze important topics on the global agenda, like the future of globalization and geopolitical conflicts. The class encourages lively discussion, a goal easily met by the students' contribution of their opinions based on their diverse cultural and academic backgrounds.

Course aim

To give students the basic intellectual tools and framework necessary for critical investigation, thinking and understanding of international politics in the contemporary world and in a historical perspective.

Fee info

EUR 0: Due to the fluid situation regarding the Coronavirus for Summer 2022, all Bachelor's and Master's courses will be offered as digital courses, with no course fee (students must buy course books themselves).