Course content

The course provides an introduction to “foreign policy,” not necessarily Norwegian foreign policy, but a more general meaning of the concept of ”foreign policy.” The course will discuss the institutions and processes that are characterized by the politics that take place in the intersection between the national and the international; it will provide an account of states’ national decision making arenas and their international (handlingsrom). Since national institutions and the international area of influence vary from state to state this course will have a comparative perspective, it will amongst other thongs discuss how small states (i.e. Norway) are subject to other external conditions than the “Great Powers” (i.e. the USA), and how this is reflected in different foreign policy practice. Candidates are required to have basic knowledge both of modern international history, national decision-making processes and national political institutions.

Learning outcome

To introduce the students to the field of foreign policy.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures/group discussions. Supervision of term paper. The essay is to be an independent discussion of a topic taught in lectures, and is to consist of 20 pages.
If 6 or fewer students sign up for a planned course during the first 2 teaching weeks, the course will be offered as an instructed reading course.

Required previous knowledge

Master’s degree in Political Science or equivalent

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course.

Credit reductions