Department of International Politics, Aberystwyth University

Background

Established in 1919, the Department of International Politics at Aberystwyth University is the world's first department dedicated to the study of international relations. Founded with a generous endowment from David Davies, the department aims to promote political understanding to prevent future conflicts. Over a century, it has become a leading center for research and teaching in international politics, emphasizing global security, peace, and justice.

Key Strategic Focus

The department's strategic focus encompasses:

• Academic Excellence: Delivering high-quality teaching and research, consistently ranking highly in student satisfaction and teaching quality.

• Diversity of Choice: Offering a wide range of modules covering topics from Russian security to contemporary Latin America, climate change, nationalism, and modern warfare.

• Community Engagement: Fostering a supportive and stimulating environment through events like discussion forums, academic talks, and social activities, enhancing student and staff interaction.

Financials and Funding

As a department within Aberystwyth University, it operates under the university's financial structure. Specific details regarding the department's funding history, total funds raised, recent funding rounds, and notable investors are not publicly disclosed. The department utilizes its resources to support teaching, research initiatives, and student engagement activities.

Pipeline Development

The department offers a comprehensive suite of programs:

• Undergraduate Programs: Including BA International Politics, BA International Politics with a language, and BA International Politics with a year in Europe.

• Postgraduate Programs: Offering MA International Relations, MA War, Strategy & Intelligence, and dual degree programs with American University.

• Research Degrees: Providing MPhil and PhD opportunities, with a focus on innovative research in international relations and politics.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The department integrates various technological platforms and innovative methodologies to enhance its academic offerings:

• Research Centers and Institutes: Hosting specialized centers such as the Centre for Intelligence & International Security Studies (CIISS), Centre for the International Politics of Knowledge, Centre of Welsh Politics and Society (CWPS), David Davies Memorial Institute (DDMI), and Planetary Challenges and Politics Centre (PCPC).

• Digital Resources: Utilizing digital platforms for research dissemination, including the publication of journals like "International Relations," and hosting podcasts and webinars to engage a global audience.

Leadership Team

The department is led by a team of distinguished academics:

• Dr. Kamila Stullerova: Senior Lecturer in International Politics, specializing in political theory, international relations, and security studies.

• Professor Colin J. McInnes: Pro Vice Chancellor (Research, Knowledge Exchange, and Innovation) at Aberystwyth University, with a personal professorial chair in the Department of International Politics, focusing on global health politics.

• Dr. Berit Bliesemann de Guevara: Co-leader of the Centre for the International Politics of Knowledge, focusing on the dynamics of knowledge production in international politics.

Competitor Profile

The Department of International Politics operates in a competitive academic environment, with several institutions offering similar programs:

• University of St Andrews: Offers a renowned International Relations program with a strong emphasis on research and global politics.

• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE): Provides comprehensive courses in International Relations, with a focus on policy and global governance.

• University of Oxford: Features a prestigious International Relations program, integrating historical and contemporary perspectives.

• King's College London: Offers diverse International Relations courses, emphasizing global security and diplomacy.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The department has established several strategic collaborations:

• David Davies Memorial Institute (DDMI): A think tank focusing on international studies, contributing to the department's research output.

• Centre for Health and International Relations (CHAIR): Led by Professor Colin McInnes, focusing on global health politics and its intersection with international relations.

• Centre for the International Politics of Knowledge (KNOWLEDGE Centre): Facilitates research on the dynamics of knowledge production in international politics.

Operational Insights

The department's strategic considerations include:

• Academic Excellence: Maintaining high standards in teaching and research to attract top-tier students and faculty.

• Global Engagement: Fostering international collaborations to enhance research impact and student experience.

• Community Building: Creating a supportive environment that encourages student participation in academic and extracurricular activities.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The department is poised to:

• Expand Research Initiatives: Develop new research projects addressing contemporary global challenges.

• Enhance Digital Presence: Utilize digital platforms to disseminate research and engage with a broader audience.

• Strengthen Industry Partnerships: Collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organizations to influence policy and practice.

Contact Information

• Official Website: Department of International Politics, Aberystwyth University

• Social Media:

• Facebook: @InterpolAber

• Twitter: @interpolaber

• Headquarters Location: International Politics Building, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3FE, United Kingdom