Curriculum Overview
The International Relations program at Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phoole University Jaipur follows a structured curriculum that spans eight semesters over four years. The program combines foundational knowledge with specialized electives, ensuring students develop both breadth and depth in their understanding of global affairs.
Course Structure
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IR-101 | Introduction to International Relations | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-102 | Political Theory and Historical Perspectives | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-103 | Introduction to Global Politics | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-104 | Research Methodology in IR | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 1 | IR-105 | English for Academic Purposes | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | IR-106 | Introduction to Sociology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | IR-201 | Theories of International Relations | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-102 |
| 2 | IR-202 | International Political Economy | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-103 |
| 2 | IR-203 | Global Governance and Institutions | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-102 |
| 2 | IR-204 | International Law | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-102 |
| 2 | IR-205 | Human Rights and Ethics in Global Affairs | 3-0-0-3 | IR-101, IR-102 |
| 2 | IR-206 | Quantitative Methods in IR | 3-0-0-3 | IR-104 |
| 3 | IR-301 | Security Studies and Conflict Resolution | 3-0-0-3 | IR-201, IR-202 |
| 3 | IR-302 | Economic Diplomacy and Trade Policies | 3-0-0-3 | IR-202, IR-203 |
| 3 | IR-303 | Environmental Diplomacy and Climate Change | 3-0-0-3 | IR-201, IR-203 |
| 3 | IR-304 | Regional Studies: South Asia and Beyond | 3-0-0-3 | IR-201, IR-202 |
| 3 | IR-305 | Digital Diplomacy and Cyber Security | 3-0-0-3 | IR-204, IR-201 |
| 3 | IR-306 | International Organizations and Their Role | 3-0-0-3 | IR-203, IR-201 |
| 4 | IR-401 | Advanced Topics in International Relations | 3-0-0-3 | IR-301, IR-302, IR-303 |
| 4 | IR-402 | Policy Analysis and Writing Skills | 3-0-0-3 | IR-104, IR-205 |
| 4 | IR-403 | Research Project and Thesis Preparation | 6-0-0-6 | IR-206, IR-301 |
| 4 | IR-404 | Internship and Field Work | 6-0-0-6 | IR-301, IR-302, IR-303 |
| 4 | IR-405 | Capstone Project in International Relations | 6-0-0-6 | IR-403, IR-404 |
Advanced Departmental Electives
- Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding: This course explores the theoretical foundations and practical applications of conflict resolution techniques. Students learn about mediation, negotiation, and peacekeeping operations through case studies and simulations.
- Global Financial Systems and Policy: Examines how international financial institutions shape global economic policies and trade dynamics. Topics include monetary policy, exchange rates, and the role of central banks in international cooperation.
- Humanitarian Law and Ethics: Focuses on the legal frameworks governing humanitarian intervention and protection of civilians during conflicts. Students study historical cases and contemporary challenges related to war crimes and genocide prevention.
- Environmental Diplomacy and Climate Negotiations: Analyzes global environmental issues from a diplomatic perspective, including climate change negotiations, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development goals.
- Digital Diplomacy and Social Media Strategy: Investigates how digital platforms influence foreign policy and international relations. Students examine real-time examples of cyber diplomacy, disinformation campaigns, and online advocacy strategies.
- Regional Integration and Cooperation: Studies the process of regional integration in various parts of the world, including ASEAN, EU, and SAARC. The course analyzes cooperation mechanisms, integration challenges, and policy coordination across borders.
- Gender and International Relations: Explores gender as a lens for analyzing international politics and policies. Students examine women's roles in peace processes, feminist foreign policy, and the impact of gender inequality on global governance structures.
- International Migration and Refugee Policy: Examines migration flows, refugee crises, and border control policies. The course covers legal frameworks, humanitarian responses, and social integration strategies for displaced populations.
- Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power: Investigates how culture shapes international relations and influences foreign policy. Students explore cultural exchange programs, media influence, and the role of art and heritage in shaping global perceptions.
- Transnational Crime and Security Challenges: Analyzes cross-border criminal activities such as terrorism, drug trafficking, and cybercrime. The course examines law enforcement cooperation and security strategies used by international agencies.
- Post-Colonial International Relations: Examines the legacy of colonialism on current global power structures and international institutions. Students explore decolonization movements, neo-colonialism, and alternative models of development.
- International Humanitarian Action: Focuses on humanitarian principles, emergency response mechanisms, and coordination between NGOs and UN agencies. The course covers fieldwork ethics, resource allocation, and accountability in crisis situations.
- Public Diplomacy and Media Engagement: Explores how governments use media to communicate with foreign audiences and build international support. Students study propaganda techniques, public opinion research, and strategic communication strategies.
- International Criminal Justice: Studies the evolution of international law and justice systems, including war crimes tribunals, genocide trials, and reparations mechanisms. The course emphasizes legal processes and ethical considerations in international justice.
- Global Health Diplomacy: Analyzes health as a tool of diplomacy and international cooperation. Students examine global health initiatives, pandemic response strategies, and the role of WHO in international health governance.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The Department of International Relations at Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phoole University Jaipur emphasizes project-based learning as a core component of its pedagogy. This approach ensures that students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, fostering critical thinking and practical skills.
Mini-Projects
During the first three years, students complete two mandatory mini-projects designed to enhance their analytical capabilities and research competencies. These projects typically involve policy briefings, comparative analyses of regional conflicts, or simulations of diplomatic negotiations.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
In the final year, students undertake a substantial capstone project under faculty supervision. This involves conducting original research on an international relations topic, preparing a comprehensive thesis, and presenting findings to a panel of experts.
Project Selection Process
Students select projects based on their interests and career goals, with guidance from faculty mentors. The selection process includes proposal presentations, peer reviews, and alignment with current global issues and institutional priorities.
Evaluation Criteria
Projects are evaluated using rubrics that assess research quality, analytical depth, presentation skills, and contribution to existing knowledge in the field. Faculty members provide feedback throughout the process to ensure academic rigor and professional development.