Postgraduate Diploma in International Studies

The diploma is intended for students who wish to obtain an introductory knowledge on International Relations and aspects related to it, namely African diplomacy and peacekeeping.

As such, the intention is twofold, to

1. Enable first degree holders who may not have a background in Political or International Studies to enter the field of International Relations and (subject to minimum requirements) allow for eventual entry to the Masters of International Studies programme.
2. Produce graduates able to present a basic understanding of concepts related to International Relations and their applicability to African Diplomacy and Peacekeeping as well as have a basic understanding of one foreign language, preferably French, at the end of the one year of study.

Learners should have completed a Bachelor 's degree or the equivalent except that learners with just one subject outstanding for a Bachelor 's degree, other than a major subject, may be admitted.

Learners should have the ability to communicate in English.

Recognition for prior learning

Candidates are granted credit for equivalent prior learning and experience as determined by the University rules governing the recognition of prior learning and experience.

Specific Outcomes

1. The PDIS graduate is competent to apply knowledge in the fields of International Relations to explain and answer questions related to international relations with

specific regard to African issues of peace and conflict, African political economy and international law as well as the use of one foreign language.

Knowledge Outcomes

a. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the framework, concepts and principles used in describing the contemporary scope of International Relations.

b. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the framework, concepts and principles used in describing the contemporary scope of International Law.

c. Demonstrate the ability to independently pursue further self-study in one foreign language.

Skills outcomes

a. Demonstrate competence in the use of the major analytical frameworks used in describing the conduct of state and non-state actors.

b. Demonstrate competence in the principles and procedures underlying the practical application of international law.

c. Demonstrate the ability to converse, write and read in a foreign language.

Value &Attitude Outcomes

a. Apply an informed understanding to the broad issues of peace and conflict confronting Africa.

b. Apply an informed understanding related to the principles of international law.

c. Obtain access to a foreign language, its culture and values.

1. Learners should be able to demonstrate an understanding, both in theory and practice, of the basic principles, theories and facts that are central to the prescribed set of subjects that form the core of the qualification. Learners will have a broad knowledge base with substantial depth in a limited range of areas.
2. Learners should be able to use available resources to gain access to information
3. Learners should be able to interpret and summarise information from variety of sources in the form of logically structured and well-written reports.
4. Simply write and simply read practically converse, have the basic ability to write simple sentences and read uncomplicated fiction in a foreign language.

Integrated assessment appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved

1. Assessment procedures adhere to Rhodes University Assessment Policy.
2. Assessment entails three elements:

• Continual formal assessment both formative and summative;
• Continual informal assessment (formative);
• Formal end of course assessment (summative).

The course work on which continuous assessment is based includes work done individually and in groups, and may consist of combinations of tests, essays, practical reports and seminars.