Comprehensive Course Structure
The International Relations program at Maharishi Arvind University Jaipur is structured over 8 semesters, providing a comprehensive academic journey that combines foundational knowledge with specialized skills. Each semester includes core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory components to ensure a well-rounded education.
| Semester | Course Code | Full Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IR-101 | Introduction to International Relations | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-102 | World Politics: A Historical Overview | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-103 | Introduction to Political Science | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-104 | Global History and Civilization | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-105 | Academic Writing and Communication Skills | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 1 | IR-106 | Introduction to Research Methodology | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 2 | IR-201 | International Organizations and Institutions | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-102 |
| 2 | IR-202 | Foreign Policy Analysis | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-103 |
| 2 | IR-203 | Regional Studies: South Asia | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | IR-204 | Global Economic Integration | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-103 |
| 2 | IR-205 | Introduction to Human Rights and International Law | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | IR-206 | Political Theory and Ideologies | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-103 |
| 3 | IR-301 | Global Security Challenges | 3-0-0-3 | IR-201, IR-202 |
| 3 | IR-302 | Cyber Security and Digital Diplomacy | 3-0-0-3 | IR-201, IR-204 |
| 3 | IR-303 | Environmental Policy and Climate Negotiations | 3-0-0-3 | IR-204, IR-205 |
| 3 | IR-304 | Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-103 |
| 3 | IR-305 | Diplomatic Practice and Negotiation Skills | 2-0-0-2 | IR-201, IR-202 |
| 3 | IR-306 | Research Ethics and Data Analysis | 2-0-0-2 | IR-106 |
| 4 | IR-401 | Advanced Topics in Global Governance | 3-0-0-3 | IR-301, IR-302 |
| 4 | IR-402 | Conflict Resolution and Peace Building | 3-0-0-3 | IR-301, IR-303 |
| 4 | IR-403 | Humanitarian Aid and Development | 3-0-0-3 | IR-204, IR-303 |
| 4 | IR-404 | International Political Economy | 3-0-0-3 | IR-204, IR-301 |
| 4 | IR-405 | Regional Studies: Middle East and Africa | 3-0-0-3 | IR-203, IR-301 |
| 4 | IR-406 | Strategic Thinking and Policy Simulation | 2-0-0-2 | IR-305 |
| 5 | IR-501 | Advanced Research Methods in IR | 3-0-0-3 | IR-306 |
| 5 | IR-502 | Policy Analysis and Implementation | 3-0-0-3 | IR-401, IR-404 |
| 5 | IR-503 | Global Health and Pandemic Response | 3-0-0-3 | IR-204, IR-303 |
| 5 | IR-504 | Advanced Conflict Studies | 3-0-0-3 | IR-402 |
| 5 | IR-505 | Media and International Communication | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 5 | IR-506 | International Trade and Investment Policies | 3-0-0-3 | IR-404 |
| 6 | IR-601 | Special Topics in International Relations | 3-0-0-3 | IR-501, IR-502 |
| 6 | IR-602 | Human Rights and Justice Systems | 3-0-0-3 | IR-205, IR-502 |
| 6 | IR-603 | Diplomatic Negotiation Techniques | 3-0-0-3 | IR-405 |
| 6 | IR-604 | International Crises and Response Strategies | 3-0-0-3 | IR-504 |
| 6 | IR-605 | Research Internship in IR | 3-0-0-3 | IR-501, IR-502 |
| 6 | IR-606 | Thesis Preparation and Presentation | 2-0-0-2 | IR-501 |
| 7 | IR-701 | Capstone Project in IR | 4-0-0-4 | IR-605, IR-606 |
| 7 | IR-702 | Policy Briefing and Public Speaking | 2-0-0-2 | IR-601 |
| 8 | IR-801 | Final Thesis in International Relations | 4-0-0-4 | IR-701 |
| 8 | IR-802 | Internship and Industry Exposure | 3-0-0-3 | IR-605, IR-701 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
These advanced electives allow students to explore specialized areas of interest and deepen their understanding of global issues:
- Global Security Challenges: This course examines contemporary security threats such as terrorism, cyber warfare, climate-induced migration, and nuclear proliferation. Students engage with real-world case studies and policy frameworks that guide national and international responses to these challenges.
- Cyber Security and Digital Diplomacy: In an era where digital technologies shape political discourse and international relations, this course explores how nations use cyber tools for diplomacy, intelligence gathering, and defense strategies. It also covers ethical dilemmas in digital governance.
- Environmental Policy and Climate Negotiations: This elective delves into the role of climate change in shaping global politics and economics. Students analyze international agreements like the Paris Agreement, carbon markets, and adaptation strategies used by different countries.
- Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power: This course investigates how cultural elements such as language, media, art, and education influence foreign policy and international perception. It explores strategies employed by nations to project positive images globally through soft power initiatives.
- Diplomatic Practice and Negotiation Skills: Designed to develop practical negotiation abilities, this course combines theory with hands-on exercises. Students participate in simulated diplomatic negotiations and learn how to manage complex multilateral talks effectively.
- Advanced Topics in Global Governance: This advanced course focuses on the evolution of international institutions and their effectiveness in addressing global challenges like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. It includes discussions on reform proposals and institutional innovations.
- Conflict Resolution and Peace Building: This course introduces students to various models of conflict resolution including mediation, arbitration, and peacekeeping operations. It also examines successful peace processes from around the world and lessons learned from failed interventions.
- Humanitarian Aid and Development: Focused on the intersection of international aid and sustainable development, this course addresses issues such as refugee crises, post-conflict reconstruction, and the role of NGOs in delivering services to vulnerable populations.
- International Political Economy: This course explores the relationship between economic systems and political decisions at the global level. It covers topics like trade wars, globalization, financial integration, and regional economic blocs.
- Regional Studies: Middle East and Africa: This course provides an in-depth look at the historical and contemporary dynamics shaping the Middle East and Africa. Students examine political systems, economic structures, conflicts, and cultural influences within these regions.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department strongly believes in experiential learning through project-based methodologies. Projects are designed to mirror real-world challenges faced by policymakers, diplomats, and researchers. Mini-projects begin in the second year and culminate in a final-year thesis or capstone project.
Mini-projects are typically collaborative efforts involving teams of 3–5 students working under faculty supervision. They focus on current global issues such as refugee resettlement policies, trade negotiations, or environmental impact assessments. These projects involve data collection, policy analysis, and presentation skills development.
The final-year thesis/capstone project is a comprehensive research endeavor that allows students to demonstrate mastery in their chosen area of specialization. Students select topics with guidance from faculty mentors, conduct independent research, and present findings at departmental symposiums or international conferences.
Evaluation criteria for projects include academic rigor, originality, relevance to current global challenges, presentation quality, and collaborative effectiveness. The process ensures students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with practical skills essential for professional success in the field of International Relations.