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The Politics of International Law - POLS5125
The Red Centre promenade

 
Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of Social Sciences and International Studies
 
 
Course Outline: http://www.arts.unsw.edu.au/politics/
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Postgraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 8
 
 
EFTSL: 0.16667 (more info)
 
 
Indicative Contact Hours per Week: 2
 
 
Fee Band: 1 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

International law plays an integral role in the system of international politics. This course challenges students to analyse that role and the major interpretations of that role. The content covered includes topics such as: the core principles and concepts of international law; distinguishing a political from a legal interpretation of a multilateral treaty, consent and verification; the operation of the International Court of Justice and the relationship between foreign policy formulation and international law. No prior knowledge of international law is required.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course a student should:
  • Understand some key principles and concepts of international law and some of the most important aspects of the contemporary system of international law
  • Research a question pertaining to international law
  • Know of major theoretical perspectives on the relationship of international law to international politics
  • Be aware of some current issues for international law
  • Be able to express his/her views regarding the role played by international law in international politics
  • Have further improved his/her essay-writing skills.

Assessment

  • Class test - 30%
  • Essay (3500 words) - 55%
  • Class participation - 15%

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© The University of New South Wales (CRICOS Provider No.: 00098G), 2004-2011. The information contained in this Handbook is indicative only. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary arrangements, programs and courses at any time without notice and at its discretion. While the University will try to avoid or minimise any inconvenience, changes may also be made to programs, courses and staff after enrolment. The University may also set limits on the number of students in a course.