Introduction to Global Politics

Undergraduate | 2026

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Mode
Mode
Your studies will be on-campus, and may include some online delivery
On campus
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Area/Catalogue
POLI 1001
Course ID icon
Course ID
201077
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Campus
Adelaide City Campus East, Adelaide City Campus West, Magill
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course owner
Course owner
Society and Culture
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Course level
1
Work Integrated Learning course
Work Integrated Learning course
No
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course provides students with the analytical skills to study the fundamental interactions between state and non-state actors in global politics, both historically and contemporarily. It introduces essential concepts such as power, balance of power, statehood, and sovereignty. Additionally, the course covers the evolution of the modern state system and the primary schools of thought in contemporary International Relations. Students will also explore various aspects of global governance, including international law and international regimes like those concerning human rights and weapons non-proliferation. 

  • Foundations of Global Politics
  • Actors and Institutions in Global Politics
  • Contemporary Issues in Global Politics

Course learning outcomes

  • Identify the main arguments of scholarly works relating to a range of global issues utilising various credible sources
  • Define major concepts in global politics as covered in this course and describe their use within the main traditions of thinking about international politics
  • Explain historical and contemporary international political behaviour drawing on the main traditions and concepts of international and global politics from this course
  • Compare and contrast the characteristics, functions, and interactions of different actors in international politics
  • Discuss contested concepts and controversial events in International Politics constructively and respectfully in small groups
  • Analyse causes and effects in international politics, presenting evidence for specific interpretations within real-world scenarios following independent research.

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A