Module Identifier IPM0540  
Module Title CONTEMPORARY STRATEGIC PROBLEMS  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Professor Martin Alexander  
Semester Semester 2 (Taught over 2 semesters)  
Course delivery Seminar   1 x two hour seminar per week over two semesters  
Assessment Presentation     25%  
  Essay   1 x 3,000 word   25%  
  Exam   3 Hours   50%  

Aims and objectives


This module is the core module for students on the MScEcon Degree or Diploma (RT pathway) in Strategic Studies.


Strategy seeks to turn military means (the threat and use of force) into successful political outcomes. The aim of this core module in the Strategic Studies scheme is to give students an overview of the main problems in the theory and practice of strategy from the classical eras of war as an instrument of policy to the contemporary period.   


The module has two sets of objectives. The first set is specific to the subject matter and relates to developing an understanding of the role of military power in international politics, issues in strategy, and the nature of contemporary warfare. The second includes the development of Masters level skills in the acquisition, use, evaluation and communication of relevant methods, information and ideas, and therefore the ability, by the end of the module, to contribute effectively in professional environments where strategic issues are being discussed.