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Course & Unit Catalogues


PL52167: The global politics of cyberspace

[Page last updated: 16 August 2024]

Academic Year: 2024/25
Owning Department/School: Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies
Credits: 10 [equivalent to 20 CATS credits]
Notional Study Hours: 200
Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Period:
Semester 2
Assessment Summary: CWES 70%, CWRI 30%
Assessment Detail:
  • Policy Brief on a Selected Cyber-Issue (CWRI 30% - Qualifying Mark: 50)
  • Essay on one of the topics discussed in class. Students are free to decide their own case. (CWES 70% - Qualifying Mark: 50)
Supplementary Assessment:
Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Requisites:
Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the unit, you will be able to:
  • have a solid knowledge of the main theoretical approaches to the study of cyberspace in international relations and of the main issues that currently set the agenda
  • demonstrate an understanding of the evolution of cyberspace as a policy issue
  • understand the political and ethical issues related to the definition and implementation of cyberspace policies
  • have a solid grasp of how to articulate knowledge on cyberspace in fluent speech and writing
  • critically analyse and interpret policy documents in the field of cyberspace.



Synopsis: Familiarise yourself with the key challenges and issues in international cyber-policy. You'll study the policies and approaches of the main actors of the international system when it comes to cybersecurity, the development of norms in cyberspace, and the strategic use of cyber weapons. Youll write and present a policy brief on a cyber-related topic, as well as an academic essay that explores in greater detail one of the main issues covered during the semester.

Content: The unit first introduces students to the concept of cyberspace, delving into its origins and impacts on international relations. The unit then explores concepts such as power, sovereignty, war and diplomacy in cyberspace, looking at major trends, actors and processes in all these domains. The unit concludes by exploring the role of influence operations in cyberspace and looks at future trends.

Course availability:

PL52167 is Optional on the following courses:

Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies

Notes:

  • This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2024/25 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2025/26 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2024/25.
  • Courses and units are subject to change in accordance with normal University procedures.
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