Course content

This course offers an introduction to general foreign policy formation. This involves the institutions and processes which characterize the politics that take place in the intersection between the national and the international level. National decision procedures as well as international restrictions on national decisions are discussed. Since these factors vary from state to state the course will adopt a comparative approach, i.e. it will be discussed how small states (e.g. Norway) make decisions within a different political framework than major powers (e.g. United States), and how this results in a different foreign policy practices. It is assumed that the students have some basic knowledge of modern history as well as national institutions and procedures of decision making. For master students in Sociology formal requirements are waived for courses approved as non-mandatory special courses in sociology.

Learning outcome

To introduce the students to the field of foreign policy.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures/group discussions. Supervision of term paper.

Form of assessment: Term paper and oral examination. The oral exam covers the term paper as well as readings. The oral exam will be used to adjust the term paper’s grade by a maximum of one grade.

If less than 6 students attend the course the two first weeeks of teaching, the course will be given as an individual study course with supervision. Please contact the departement for further information.

Compulsory assignments

• Presentation

Recommended previous knowledge

See formal requirements.

Required previous knowledge

POL1000 or 60 credits in History, Social Studies or the equivalent.

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course.

Credit reductions