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Teaching Methods

The Graduate School of Global Politics (GSGP) recognizes that interdisciplinary learning and a mix of guidance and individual initiative are the keys to understanding the complexities of modern global politics.  As a result, the program is designed to encompass not only research but also a significant amount of coursework in several different areas. The coursework takes place during the first two years, during which doctoral candidates develop a detailed dissertation plan. All the PhD candidates are required to complete the courses in the core curriculum.  In addition, they can choose elective courses according to their individual needs. All courses give the PhD candidates the opportunity to meet and extensively interact with other doctoral candidates, especially those also participating in the GSGP Program. This leads to an extensive exchange of ideas and the development of lifelong contacts.   

Guidance is provided in the form of three GSGP advisors, who are experts in their fields. The PhD candidates are matched with an advisor from each university according to their specific research interests. The advisors provide support for the doctoral candidates throughout the program and are especially important in helping them with the planning, methodology and formulation of the dissertation. The PhD candidates can select experts from different areas and departments who specialize in areas relevant to their theses. The program encourages dissertations that examine questions in global politics through an interdisciplinary perspective.

In addition to this view of International Relations(IR), GSGP also aims to bring 21st century technology into the classroom. The program begins with two e-learning modules, enabling PhD candidates to be introduced to the program in their home countries.  At the same time, they will be able to interact with the PhD candidates and professors from the partner country over the internet. GSGP uses the online learning management system Blackboard, which gives the PhD candidates access to coursework, supplementary reading material and forums for student discussion. These e-learning modules introduce the doctoral candidates to a “classroom of the future” and provide valuable technological skills to be employed in future teaching and research.

Finally, GSGP strongly emphasizes international exchange and gaining experience in international research. Through classes on theory and methodology taken in both countries and a 6-12 month research stay in the partner country, the PhD candidates gain the tools needed to organize individual research projects both at home and abroad. During their extended research stays in the partner country, the GSGP doctoral candidates also gain an important insight into that country’s culture and academic atmosphere. This unique perspective helps to foster future international cooperation and research.

The program is subject to change.