[Irrepressible]

Hey guys! If anyone here is studying IR, can s/he share some thoughts about it?
Do you like your module structure, do you consider the course good and practical? What do lectures look like (staff's attitude)? In short - do you think Sussex is the right place for IR?
Thanks!

[Rainy]

Bloody good. The course and department have undergone changes in the 4 years I've been here, so many module options have changed (for the better in my opinion): click. The department has a strong research commitment - 95% of research is deemed world class, internationally leading or internationally recognised by the RAE, and by this measure is one of the very best in the country. Moreover, everyone tends to be very accommodating and helpful whether during seminars, lectures, office hours or over a coffee at the Global Studies cafe. The criticism I would have is the lack of clearly defined 'personal tutor' to link you to the department; I've only spoken to my 'Academic Tutor' twice (since 2006!) as, genuinely, we never come into contact thanks to differing fields of interests in IR.

It has to be said that International Relations here is renowned for its critical perspectives - often using modes of analyses that other schools wouldn't touch on (I'll drop the M word) - which provide a lens for most of the courses you will take. It has its strengths and weaknesses: global political economy, international development (the IDS is based here after all), IR theory are definite strengths. Conceptual courses predominate although by final year there are several options for region-specific studies. In short, if you expect to be spoon-fed Samuel Huntington, Francis Fukuyama et al: don't come here.

[Irrepressible]

Thank you very much! What I look for is really critical approach to IR and global issues. Wider perspectives and different kind of analysis look more than appealing to me!