This course is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors, influences and actors which have shaped and are shaping American foreign and security policy, especially in the post-WWII period. No previous experience of American politics is required for this course as lectures in the early sessions will provide much of the basic knowledge required by beginners to the topic.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand and discuss a variety of interpretive perspectives advanced by scholars regarding the drivers, objectives and methods of US foreign policy.
Understand and discuss the major issues confronting American policymakers in the contemporary era and the policies/strategies with which recent administrations have responded.
Understand and discuss the historical and institutional context in which contemporary US foreign policy is made.
Assessment
33053-01 : Essay - 2000 words : Coursework (50%)
33053-02 : Policy briefing paper - 1500 words : Coursework (50%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment: 1 x 1000 word policy briefing paper (25%) 1 x 2500 word essay (75%) Reassessment: resit of failed piece or pieces of assessment
