Globalisation: Politics, Conflict and Human Rights MA (PGCert PGDip)

Program Overview

The MA Globalisation: Politics, Conflict and Human Rights explores the complex relationships between globalization, politics, conflict, and human rights. Through a blend of seminars, lectures, and independent study, students gain a critical understanding of contemporary global issues and develop skills in research, analysis, and communication. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in development, charities, law, journalism, and academia, among others.

Program Outline

MA Globalisation: Politics, Conflict and Human Rights

Degree Overview:

This MA explores the intricate relationships between contemporary politics, conflict, and debates surrounding human rights and security, all set within the context of globalisation. The program delves into critical topics including:

• Human rights and humanitarian intervention
• The globalized economy and the shifting global order
• Global governance and the United Nations system
• The rise of global networks and movements
• Global security, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding
• International relations and law
• Global poverty and development
• The politics of sustainability and environmental decline
The curriculum is meticulously designed to equip students with a thorough and critical understanding of the multifaceted landscape of globalization in our contemporary world. This program distinguishes itself by:
• Offering a dynamic learning community fostering vibrant interactions and engagement in regular events
• Instilling a culture of close tutorial support, nurturing personalized learning experiences
• Attracting inspirational lecturers who are deeply passionate about their respective fields
Graduates of the MA Globalisation: Politics, Conflict and Human Rights will be well-equipped to pursue fulfilling careers across diverse industries, including:
• Charities and NGOs
• Development organizations
• Environmental initiatives
• Education
• Media and journalism
• Law
• Business and management
• Human resources
• Further PhD research

Outline:

Core Modules:

• Globalisation and Global Politics (30 credits, semester 1): This module delves into the core theories, concepts, and vital debates shaping today's globalized political landscape.
Students explore areas like the changing global order, the global economy, the UN system, global poverty and development, and sustainability
• Protecting Human Rights and Building Peace (30 credits, semester 2): This module provides a comprehensive overview of human rights and modern peacebuilding initiatives.
Students gain insights into the UN Human Rights system and analyze its effectiveness in protecting, respecting, and upholding human rights.
• Research Methods (20 credits): This module equips students with essential research skills including project design, ethical considerations, navigating UN libraries, exploring diverse research methods, and examining the significance of issues like positionality and decolonization in the research process.
• Professional Placements: Engaging in University-supported placements with non-profit organizations, students explore how human rights, social justice, and sustainable development issues are addressed in practical applications.
This module provides invaluable professional experience relevant for future careers in charity, human rights, and humanitarian work.
• Heritage in a Global Context: Combining theoretical and political debate with enriching site visits, this module facilitates the analysis of global case studies concerning what constitutes heritage.
• Extended Essay: Students have the opportunity to conduct small-scale independent research projects under supervised guidance.
This enables them to explore a topic of their choice within the broader spectrum of globalization, conflict, and/or human rights.
• Queer and Now: This interdisciplinary module journeys through traditions of LGBTQ+ community spaces, queer theory, and local and global writing, analyzing these elements within the context of the histories and politics of sexuality and queer identities.
• Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: Students gain first-hand experience through the preparation, execution, and reflection on undergraduate teaching.
By shadowing a tutor on a module in an area of their interest, they gain valuable insights into pedagogy and curriculum development.
• Caring for Collections and their Users: Students delve into professional concerns within museums and other collection-based organizations.
They explore the development, care, management, and research of various collections, gaining hands-on experience that provides a strong foundation for careers in this field.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary between modules but may include a diverse range of elements such as:

• Essays
• Research projects
• Dissertations
• Presentations
• Group work
• Portfolios
• Case studies
• Exams
• Participation in seminars and discussions
Assessment criteria depend on the specific assessment tasks assigned within each module and are generally outlined in module handbooks. These criteria will address elements such as:
• Content mastery
• Argumentation and analysis
• Research skills
• Critical thinking
• Communication
• Referencing and scholarship
• Originality and creativity
• Clarity and presentation

Teaching:

The MA Globalisation: Politics, Conflict and Human Rights employs a blend of teaching approaches to cater to diverse learning styles and maximize knowledge acquisition:

• Seminars: Interactive session fostering debate, discussion, and active participation
• Lectures: Delivering key concepts from leading experts in their respective fields
• Independent study: Encouraging individual exploration of topics through readings, research, and reflection
• Group work: Nurturing collaborative skills while tackling complex issues together
• Presentations: Honing communication skills and developing confidence in public speaking
• Guest lectures: Bringing in industry professionals and leading scholars from diverse backgrounds to share their expertise
This dynamic approach to teaching creates a stimulating and engaging learning environment where students are actively involved in their academic journey.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue a wide range of career paths across diverse sectors:

• Development: Contributing to international development efforts within NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations.
• Charities and NGOs: Working with charities addressing a variety of social issues, focusing on human rights, environment, poverty, and more.
• Research and academia: Pursuing further PhD research, becoming involved in academia, or conducting research with specialized organizations.
• Law and policy: Specializing in human rights law, international humanitarian law, or contributing to policy development related to global issues.
• Government and international organizations: Working with institutions like the UN, EU, or national governments on policy implementation and international relations.
• Journalism and media: Reporting on global events, advocating for social change, or raising awareness on critical issues.
• Education: Sharing their expertise and passion as educators in universities, colleges, or adult education programs.
• Business and management: Bringing specialized knowledge to the corporate world, promoting responsible business practices, and contributing to ethical supply chains.

Other:

Mithras House

serves as the hub for all courses offered by the School of Humanities and Social Science. This modern space includes several "labs" designed to enhance research and foster creativity:

• Life Lab: Facilitates qualitative research with groups through its comfortable layout and natural environment.
• City Lab: Ideal for collaborative learning among students working on global challenges related projects.
• Design Lab: Houses extensive collection of historic dress and textiles used for teaching in History of Art and Design programs.
• Stats Lab: Equipped with computing hardware for statistical analysis, video and audio editing software.
Used by psychology students and for projects with video/audio components.
• VR and Eye Tracking Lab: Dedicated space for psychological research utilizing VR and eye tracking technologies.
• Caring for Collections and their Users: Offering a module dedicated to exploring professional aspects of museum and collection based organizations, including development, care, management and research of their collections.
Beyond the classroom, students have numerous opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities and expand their social horizons:
• Global Lounge: Dedicated social space for international students, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
• Sports facilities: Access to well-equipped gyms, fitness center, and sports activities across all campuses.
• Societies and clubs: Joining over 150 student-led societies catering to various interests, hobbies, and pursuits.
• Cultural events: Attending a diverse program of cultural events, exhibitions, and performances on campus and beyond.