Master in Political Sciences - International Relations
Multilingual
Courses
Specialization
MES605The Middle East and Europe: Issues and Challenges in the Tran-Mediterranean Relations
3 credits
The course is intended to provide an analysis of the evolution of the complex relations of interdependence between the Middle East and Europe. It focuses particularly on the development of the multilateral structures of cooperation between the two regions such as the Euro Arab Dialogue, the Euro Mediterranean Partnership known as the Barcelona Process, and the Union For the
Mediterranean plus other smaller structures of cooperation. The course addresses the context, the factors, and the constraints that shaped the creation and the functioning of these different structures of cooperation. The course addresses also the different challenges facing the Middle East and Europe since the coming of the "Arab Spring" and the implications of these challenges for the Trans Mediterranean relations in the political security economic and cultural fields.
POL510Comparative Political Systems
3 credits
The comparative study of contemporary systems is a relatively recent development in the field of political systems and this course focuses on the comparative analysis of different Western political systems in particular. There will be an emphasis on the practice of comparing systems, comparing and classifying what is studied in order to achieve a generalization or a developing a better explanation. Political science is no exception to the rule and comparative work makes up a significant part of the analysis conducted on the diversity of sociopolitical phenomena around which the discipline is built. The methodological approach of this course will combine comparative analysis by subject and then by country. Throughout this course students will be invited to participate in an active way.
POL520Current Issues in the World Order
3 credits
This course is a set of practical activities focused on current issues. Presentations and press releases, the writing of book reviews and synthesis, and participation in simulation debates are all exercises that will allow students to gain practical and working methods in close contact with the current themes of international, regional and national politics.
RIN451Theories of International Relations
3 credits
This course will focus on the different schools of thought that have addressed international relations through theoretical approaches, whether general or specific theories. It will also emphasize the difference in perception between American schools and French authors, who favor a historical approach over globalizing perspectives.
RIN550Terrorism and International Security
3 credits
Terrorism has become a major issue in international relations long before 9/11. The Cold War was already the framework of various ideological movements using this method. It has spread and now re-diversify, and is a structural element of world conflicts. International security adapted progressively but is still in search of efficient capacities and strategies. This course will therefore mix various actors and contexts on a dynamic and prospective path. The course has four sections: A. news comments, B. case study, C. theory: concepts and their applicability, D. Simulation Middle East War On Terror (MEWOT).
Core Courses
DIS535Foreign Policy Analysis
3 credits
The seminar focuses on the comparative study of foreign policy. It addresses the foreign policies of Great Powers, medium sized Powers and regional Powers. It starts by a theoretical and empirical analysis of the decision making system in these countries, as well as the patterns of foreign policies.
The comparative analysis is also focused on the elements shaping FP decision making and conduct of foreign policy (the different components of the external and internal factors shaping the decision making). Particular emphasis will be put on their foreign policies in the Middle East.
MES600Regional Dynamics and Current issues in the Middle East
3 credits
This seminar course is intended to provide an analysis of the regional system and the international relations of the Middle East. We will examine the genealogy and the main features of the regional system: level of analysis, regional security complex, the revival of subnational and transnational ideologies, the emergence of the role of non-state actors in regional politics and conflict situations, the geopolitical dynamics of the Arab Spring, the increasing role and weight of non-Arab regional powers (Turkey, Iran, etc.), the new patterns of competition between major powers (Russia, U.S., etc.), and the geo-sectarian competition between Iran and Saudi Arabia. In the second part, the course will cover specific regional challenges like the refugees, food security and water scarcity and energy security in the Middle East. The course will finalize with an assessment concerning the future perspectives for Lebanon within the geopolitics of the Middle East.
POL505Methodology of Writing and Research in Political science
3 credits
This course is devoted to issues of political science research, from theoretical and methodological points of view, and it proposes to revisit the major themes that characterize the discipline. What are the main research areas favored by political scientists today? What are the theoretical implications? What impact can political science research have on the societies studied?
POL515Challenges of Globalization
3 credits
This course provides a multidisciplinary approach to the challenges of globalization, with a particular emphasis placed on its scope and its economic consequences. We will discuss the much debated theoretical questions about globalization, and combine it with an analysis of changes in the balance between powers in the 20th and 21st centuries, including the decline of traditional powers, the emergence of new regional powers, the multiplication of decision centers, and the role of international governance in organizations.
RIN548Multilateral Diplomacy in International and Regional Organizations
3 credits
International organizations mainly the UN and regional organizations like the League of Arab States the European Union among others play an increasingly important role in the world and in different regions. This course offers students insights and practical knowledge about the conduct of multilateral diplomacy in different fields with particular focus on the Middle East.
Capstone
Mission
The mission of the International Relations department is to train students in theories and political and economic issues that shape the relations between states, by offering a program focused on the following topics:
- Conflict management
- The question of security
- The political, economic and international issues of the Mediterranean region
Program Educational Objectives
1. Graduates will have the skills to negotiate and manage crisis situations as a diplomat or as part of a diplomatic type institutions.
2. Graduates will have the ability to provide solutions in handling complex cases as head of unit in an international, regional or local organizations.
3. Graduates will have the ability to direct an NGO or international organization of active character in the humanitarian sector, and in the area of human rights and the application of international law.
4. Graduates will have the ability to defend complex or controversial ideas in public.
Program Outcomes
a. Students will manage diplomatic actions in the context of peace or war.
b. Students will be able to create multiple projects related to national and international affairs.
c. Students will defend ideas and actions related to the fields of human rights and international law.