Entry requirements

Only for exchange students.

Learning outcomes

The purpose of this course is to offer students a theoretical overview of political conditions in the Middle East. After the course, students are expected to have fundamental general knowledge of state and politics in the region, a familiarity with ongoing debates concerning the use of theory and methodology in research about the Middle East, as well as basic knowledge of the different research fronts relevant to the region. During the course each student will specialise in one of the main themes of the course and thereby obtain deeper knowledge.

In order to pass the course students will need to demonstrate their ability to independently choose a relevant research question and analyse it within the proper theoretical and methodological frames, their ability to critically discuss and present information, orally and in writing as well as independently seek scientific sources and information.

Content

The course offers a broad overview of state and politics in the Middle East (structure of the state, nation, civil society, democratisation, politics and religion, Islamism) from a regional and international perspective (foreign policy, security, international relations).

Instruction

Lectures and mandatory seminars. The course is taught in English.

Assessment

Examination takes place continuously throughout the course through written and oral assignments as well as through active participation in the seminars. The final examination consists of two parts: in addition to a written test each student chooses a research question based on one of the themes of the course, works with this question within relevant theoretical and methodological frames and presents the research process and results in a course paper. Each student further discusses someone else's paper and contributes with scientifically relevant and constructive critique.

Grading

Grades awarded include: Fail (U) - Pass (G) - Pass with Distinction (VG). In addition, grades will be given according to European Credit Transfer System (ECTS),that is using a seven-step scale.