Rationale 

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the foundational concepts of Strategic Studies. The course begins with examination of the scope, major processes and theoretical groundings of Strategic Studies while attempting to investigate its real-world applications. Students will become familiar with the origins and evolution of strategic thought in response to political, technological, cultural and other developments. The course provides students with opportunities to debate and analyse a number of themes including the roles associated with the strategy making process and warfare studies.  Students will be led through an exploration of strategic trends, challenges and powerful factors that shape the strategic landscape in the 21st century. This all builds toward providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to understand a range of current issues and to engage actively and constructively in today’s strategic environment. 

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be expected to:

(i)    Define strategic studies and its scope.
(ii)   Describe the origins and evolution of strategic thought.
(iii)  Discuss the significance of strategic studies in contemporary politics. 
(iv)  Evaluate the applicability of various strategic theories in real world security issues. 
(v)   Identify the actors affecting and being affected by the strategy-making process. 
(vi)  Analyse how strategy has been practiced throughout different historical periods.
(vii) Determine the dimensions in which strategy is practiced.
(viii) Describe different forms of warfare and their corresponding strategies.
(ix)  Discuss major problems and dilemmas related to the practice of warfare with or without the use of military forces.
(x)   Identify the strategic trends, challenges and powerful factors that shape the strategic landscape of the 21st century.
(xi)  Analyse current global security problems using strategic theories, approaches and thinking.