International Relations and Security Studies Papers at Tauranga (2023)

Like most states, New Zealand depends for its security and prosperity on regional and international stability. Its political, economic and societal well-being can be affected by, for example, major power relations; global financial crises; and the rise of violent extremist non-state actors and the responses to them. As a good international citizen, New Zealand seeks to play a role in the international institutions that try to uphold international law and order and to contribute to international stabilisation operations in various countries. Given the significance of such issues, International Relations and Security Studies provides students with the opportunity to pursue further study in various aspects of international relations and security, including aspects of international law and trade, and to focus on particular regions of concern (notably, South-East Asia). A wide range of different length dissertations and theses can be undertaken, allowing students to focus on areas of special interest to them.

International Relations and Security Studies is available as a minor.

To complete a minor in International Relations and Security Studies, students must complete at least 60 points in papers listed for the minor, including at least 30 above 100 level. Students must complete both IRSST103 and IRSST206.



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  • 100 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    IRSST103Introduction to International Relations15.023B (Hamilton) & 23B (Online)
    This paper provides an introduction to the study of international relations in an era of globalisation. It covers the historical background, key concepts and theories, case studies, and contemporary developments in the study of world politics.
    POLSC103Introduction to Political Psychology15.023A (Online) & 23A (Tauranga)
    Politics affects every aspect of our lives. This paper is an introduction to understanding political behaviour, helping you become more critically aware of your own role as citizen.
  • 200 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    IRSST206International Relations: The Security Agenda15.023A (Hamilton)
    This paper introduces students to International Relations' dynamic and evolving security agenda and covers some of the most urgent contemporary security concerns.
    POLSC203The Rhetoric of Collective Memory15.023B (Online) & 23B (Tauranga)
    Why do social groups decide to keep certain memories of the historical past alive while repressing others? Students tackle this question by analysing museums, monuments and popular culture.
    POLSC229US Politics15.023B (Online) & 23B (Tauranga)
    Students in this course explore the foundational elements of the United States, its governing institutions, the extent of public influence within the system, and major contemporary policy issues that the country faces.
  • 300 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    POLSC301Visual Communication: Politics, Propaganda, Protest15.023A (Online) & 23A (Tauranga)
    This paper introduces students to the power of visual communication. The theoretical knowledge gained is applicable to politics and beyond.

2023 Catalogue of Papers information current as of : 21 March 2023 10:02am

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