This program is designed for those who wish to be equipped with theories, practical knowledge and analytical skills to understand critical world issues and the way they develop. The themes underlying the curriculum embrace interdisciplinary coherence (social sciences and foreign languages).

In view of the fact that Cambodia has experienced fast paced development and become increasingly regionally and globally integrated, yet remains in need of a broader perspective and a rational world view, the Department of International Relations (DIR) undertakes the important mission to produce a pool of intellectually matured graduates with expertise in international relations.

International Relations is a multidisciplinary program which focuses on global issues and development as well as the complex relationship between societies and governments that shape the world we live in. The focal themes include political science, international economic development, foreign relations, and international cultural at the Royal University of Phnom Penh who see the need for Cambodia to have future leaders who are well-equipped with analytical skills and knowledge of the global world.

Background

The Department of International Relations, a descendent of the Department of International Studies originated from the International Studies Program (ISP), which was established at the Institute of Foreign Languages on September 5, 2008. At its inception, ISP, with a limited number of students, was under the administration and management of the Department of English. Since then as the quality and quantity of students and faculty grew, significant modifications to the curriculum were made and the Program was transformed into the Department of International Studies (DIS) in June 2010. DIS has now been rebranded as Department of International Relations (DIR) under a newly established institute for International Studies and Public Policy (IISPP).

Cambodia's First and Excellence in International Relations

 The Bachelor of International Relations program from the Department of International Relations has earned the distinction of being the first accredited bachelor's degree in International Relations in Cambodia, as certified by the ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA). This achievement reflects the program's commitment to academic quality, international recognized standards, and continuous improvement.

Vision

The DIR envisions an academic institution in which faculty, student and staff strive to learn, apply, share and ultimately create new knowledge such that the Cambodian people, regional partners and the world, benefit, DIR looks towards a future in which it is the recognized Cambodian leader in teaching, research, engagement and service in international affairs, politics, economics, commerce, public policy, law, strategies, and area studies.

Values

1. Excellence
2. Integrity
3. Professionalism

4. Selfless services

    

Missions

The Department of International Relations aims to:

1. Equip students with in-depth knowledge in the fields of international affairs, politics, economics, commerce, public policy, law, strategies, and area studies;

2. Equip students with in-depth knowledge and ability to apply theories learnt in class to real life situations;

3. Develop students' systems thinking, strategic foresight, critical thinking, independent learning, digital, and professional skills;

4. Cultivate students' positive attitudes, character and integrity to become responsible citizens dedicated to advancing Cambodia's national interests.

Program Goals

Cambodia and the world.

           GOAL1: Enhance teaching and learning

           GOAL2: Promote research and innovation

           GOAL3: Develop well-rounded citizenship and effective leadership

           GOAL4: Promote sustainable development and preserve Cambodian cultural and natural heritage

           GOAL5: Expand social engagement

Program Educational Philosophy

            DIR's educational philosophy is guided by the outcome-based education approach (OBE), which integrates interdisciplinary study and a collaborative student-centered learning approach. DIR/IISPP emphasizes the importance of cultivating and applying knowledge and skills that prepare students for life-long learning to contribute to Cambodian society and beyond.

Program Educational objectives

DIR graduates will:

1. possess established careers in international relations and other related fields, 
2. employ their knowledge and skills, including transferable skills, to address real-world challenges in the areas of international relations,

demonstrate a commitment to ethical conduct, social responsibility, and lifelong learning, enabling them to make positive contributions to their professional societies, national interests, and the broader international.

DIR Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

DIR graduates will:

A. Knowledge:

A1. Demonstrate core knowledge of socio-cultural, economic, political and security factors, facts, concepts, and generalizations that inform intra-state and cross-border relations among state and non-state actors;

A2. Possess knowledge of latest developments in the thematic clusters of international relations and governance, international law and organizations, international economics, and region and area studies;

B. Cognitive Skills:

B1. Evaluate the perspective, quality and accuracy of information resources with reference to international relations and governance, international law and organizations, international economics, and region and area studies;

B2. Use a deep knowledge of diverse worldviews, experiences, power structures, different effects of human organization and actions on the global system to develop informed actions to address significant global/local problems;

C. Interpersonal Skills and Responsibility:

C1. Execute tasks in an academic setting which require interpersonal skills, leadership skills, and independent learning skills useful for employment;

C2. Demonstrate an understanding of philosophical and social contexts and respect for ethics and ethical standards of the discipline when creating tools to address social, political, economic, and environmental challenges;

C3. Develop a sense of appreciation and respect for national interests, culture and cultural diversity;

D. Communication, Information Technology, and Numerical Skills

D1. Demonstrate an ability to effectively communicate information and ideas in English in both local and international contexts;

D2. Utilize the most appropriate information technology, statistical and mathematical techniques and tools in gathering, analysing, interpreting and presenting information.

Admission Requirements

This program is a rigorous and intensive degree program whose primary medium of instruction is English. Applicants must possess an outstanding level of achievement required by the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy for admission. Each candidate must pass an entrance examination arranged by the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy. The exam is designed to test candidates’ English proficiency as well as general knowledge about regional and global events and histories.

Program Duration

This program requires FOUR years of full-time study. Each academic year is scheduled into two semesters per year with additional elective (optional) courses conducted between academic years. Students are required to study five regular courses each semester, except for those admitted into the Honors Program, the second semester of fourth year. Each course consists of 30 one-and-half-hour sessions.

Graduation Requirements

Students must earn a minimum of 120 credit points to be eligible for the award of Bachelor of Arts in International Relations. The total accumulated credit points can be earned by attending required courses (3 credits for each course) and passing the comprehensive examinations or successfully defending their senior project (for students in the Honors Program).

There are two strands for the BA programs at the senior year: (1) the regular Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (with two concentrations: International Relations and International Trade and Entrepreneurship) and (2) the Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (Honors). The Regular Program does not require students to write the senior project but they must pass the comprehensive examinations. The Honors Program requires students to successfully complete and defend the project. Only limited outstanding students (those students with an average score of 80 or above in all the four years of study) are admitted into the Honors Program upon the recommendation from their academic advisors/teachers.

Assessment

Students' academic performance is assessed by semester. In other words, a pass or good score in one semester cannot compensate for a fail or poor score in the other. And students are assessed in two ways:

• On-going assessment (60%) based on class tests, homework, assignments, projects, oral presentations and class participation, and
• Final Examination (40%) taken by all students at the end of each semester.

Application Procedure

Regular and Elective Courses

Regular courses are compulsory, while elective courses are optional. Credits from elective courses cannot be transferred to the regular courses.

Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in elective courses to better prepare themselves for the next-year level. Elective course credits will be included on academic transcripts.

Program Course Themes

The curriculum offered for the Bachelor of Arts in International Relations provides each student with a comprehensive understanding of the following four interrelated themes:

1. International Relations and Governance Studies

2. International Economics and Trade

3. Region and Area Studies

4. International Law and Organization

I. International Relations and Governance Studies

This theme covers the following main areas—international relations/world politics, comparative politics, international political economy, and foreign policy. Each of these includes the respective history, development, related issues, as well as major philosophical, theoretical, and methodological approaches to the study of the area.

Courses under this theme:

II. International Economics and Trade

This theme offers students a deeper understanding of the changing dynamics of global economy, finance and trade. The two prerequisite courses: Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics aim to provide students with necessary background in theory and practice of economic models and concepts. They are the basic building blocks for economic policy analysis and application to real international economic settings. This theme also allows students to draw upon Cambodia’s relevant development and economic issues for class discussion and policy analysis.

Courses under this theme:

III. Region, Area and History Studies

Courses under this theme aim to provide students with foundations of history, world civilization, and area studies. Students will be invited to explore intriguing issues and focused studies pertaining to various regions.

Courses under this theme:

IV. International Law and Organizations

This theme includes international law, international organizations, and issues related to international law and international organizations. It covers the history and development as well as issues pertaining to the application, implementation and the international organizations that work to uphold international law.

Courses under this theme:

V. Elective Courses

FOUNDATION YEAR SUBJECTS
 

IS101 Contemporary Global Issues
This course is designed for the first-year students of the International Relations Program of the Department of International Relations of the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy, who have no prior knowledge of international relations or global issues. This course introduces students to a range of contemporary issues in international affairs in order to broaden their understanding of the global issues so that they will become well prepared for subsequent, more advanced courses in the program. Students will examine some of the most pressing political, security, and economic issues currently facing the global community, their causes and impacts, and the potential solutions to those issues. The major global issues which will be covered include global population and migration, global environmental issues, global poverty and hunger, global energy issues, global health challenges, global trading issues, and global security threats.

HIST101 Contemporary History of Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is one of the most diverse regions in the world, characterized by fascinating social, cultural, political, economic, and geographical variations. The term “Southeast Asia” is, indeed, a neologism. It was occasionally used in academic writing in the 1920s, and more generally utilized after the Allied Forces established the combined “Southeast Asia Command” (SEAC) in December 1943 against the Japanese Imperial Army in the region. This course serves as an introduction to the modern history of this diverse and complex region, particularly from WWII to the post-Cold War era. Students will be asked to analyse what causes and effects of wars and conflicts in Southeast Asia are, and they will also be asked to carefully examine when nation-building begins and how it fits into the writing of contemporary history of Southeast Asia. This course will, indeed, stimulate academic interests among students to broaden and deepen their knowledge of contemporary Southeast Asia.

IR101: Introduction to International Relations
This course aims to introduce first-year DIS students to the basic concepts of International Relations. First, the course introduces students to the role and influence of the state in international politics. The second part of the course explores how non-state actors such as religious organizations, nationalist movements, multinational corporations, rebel groups, terrorist groups, and Non-Governmental Organizations, exercise their role and influence in world politics. The third part of the course introduces the role and influence of Inter-Governmental Organizations (IGOs) such as the League of Nations, the United Nations, the European Union, and ASEAN, in global and regional contexts. Finally, the course introduces students to major regional and global challenges and issues such as climate change, weapons of mass destruction, humanitarian crises, as well as the North-South divide.

SOC101: History of Cambodian Politics, Economy, & International Relations
This course is designed for the first-year students of the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy, aiming to increase their understanding of the Cambodian society through her history. Unlike other general history courses, this course focuses specifically on the political, economic, and foreign relation history of Cambodia during the pre-Angkor, Angkor, and post-Angkor eras. At the outset, the course introduces students to the nature of the Cambodian political and socio-economic governance systems, leading students to analyze the origins, strengths and weaknesses of such systems. Subsequently, the course guides students to examine the driving forces, opportunities and challenges of Cambodia’s past political, security, and economic relations with other states.

AREA101: Politics and Governments in Asia Pacific
This is an introductory course on contemporary politics and governments of the states in the Asia Pacific, one of the world’s most diverse regions in terms of ethnic and religious composition, political regimes, and levels of economic development. This course will lead students to examine the political structures, regime types, and key actors of the political system as well as the current political situation in individual countries in the Asia Pacific. In this course, the major characteristics of those governments and politics, their similarities and differences, and their problems and prospects will be examined. Our case studies include China, Japan, India, Russia, South Korea, North Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, and the United States of America.

IR102: ASEAN Studies
ASEAN Studies aims at offering students the glimpse of modern history of countries in Southeast Asia, which supplements the understanding of socio-cultural, political-security, and particularly economic issues raised by recent ASEAN’s institutional developments. Another objective is to raise students’ awareness of ASEAN and the three communities which have profound implications and impacts on their lives. The course will also enable students to capture the overall picture of the expected costs and opportunities generated by the three ASEAN Communities.

PHIL101: Cambodian Political and Economic Thoughts
This course explores the Society, Economics, and Politics in Pre-Angkor (The 7th – 8th Centuries) to Post-Angkor period and the Politics, Economic, and Society of Cambodia from the establishment of the French Protectorate to contemporary. In order to improve their comprehension of Cambodian Politics, Economic, and Society via its history, this course is intended for first-year students at the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy of the Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP). The course begins by introducing students to the characteristics of the political and socio-economic government structures of Cambodia, which then inspire them to consider their history, virtues, and flaws. The course then directs learners to consider the factors that shaped Cambodia's historical political, security, and economic relations with other nations as well as their opportunities and problems.

STAT101: Applied Statistics
Modern technology yields large amounts of data which can be well understood with the help of statistics. The main objective of this subject is to provide an accessible introduction to statistics. It starts with the concept of data; what it is and how it can be collected and summarized. There is a brief review of the basic concepts of probability. Students will study important statistical tools and understand their use by solving specific applied problems.

EAP101 & EAP102: Academic Writing 1 & 2

 These courses are designed to develop DIR students’ academic writing skills by having them engage in various academic writing activities such as writing paragraphs and essays, citing sources, quoting, referencing, paraphrasing, and summarizing. The course is primarily aimed to provide students with practical information about the essential conventions of academic writing and to improve students’ academic writing skills through frequent practice. The course places high emphasis on how to avoid plagiarism and how to write unified, cohesive, coherent, and adequately developed paragraphs and essays.

IR901: The History of Conflict in Southeast Asia (Elective)
This course begins its narrative with prehistory and investigates how the earliest complex societies developed in the region now referred to as “Southeast Asia.” This survey course will reveal a dynamic world of encounter, cooperation, conflict, interaction, and war, exploring the ways in which the concepts of ruler, empire, community, ethnicity, nation, state, national identity and more have emerged within a broad historical and geographical landscape. Moreover, since much of the conflict in Southeast Asia in modern times has occurred within nations rather than between them, the course examines civil wars, ethnic conflicts, and secessionist movements.

IR901: The History of Conflict in Southeast Asia (Elective)
This course begins its narrative with prehistory and investigates how the earliest complex societies developed in the region now referred to as “Southeast Asia.” This survey course will reveal a dynamic world of encounter, cooperation, conflict, interaction, and war, exploring the ways in which the concepts of ruler, empire, community, ethnicity, nation, state, national identity and more have emerged within a broad historical and geographical landscape. Moreover, since much of the conflict in Southeast Asia in modern times has occurred within nations rather than between them, the course examines civil wars, ethnic conflicts, and secessionist movements.

YEAR TWO SUBJECTS

IR201: The UN Systems and Agencies

This course seeks to give students a clear understanding of an area fundamentally important in global governance by introducing students to the frameworks of the UN, the supreme Inter-Governmental Organization, and its subordinate agencies, which have significantly influenced the international relations of the states, organizations, and individuals. The course will expose students to the fundamental knowledge concerning the UN and its agencies.

ECO202: Principles of Microeconomics

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of microeconomic analysis. Topics covered include the study of the forces of supply and demand that determine prices and the allocations of resources in markets, as well as the behavior of individuals and businesses in response to those market forces. This introduction course provides all the basic knowledge required to understand other Economics courses that follow.

IR203: International Relations I

International Relations I provides a basic illustration of what International Relations is mainly about. Essential concepts, theories, ideologies, debates, and controversies over international politics and economy (among other prime national and international factors) will be presented throughout the course. In addition, students will be exposed to different discussions over the relativity of IR theory and practice in the real world, through the analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of specific theories when applied to different case scenarios/case studies.

POL204: Politics and Governments in Southeast Asia

This course explores contemporary dynamic politics of the eleven countries in Southeast Asia in a new international era following the end of the Cold War. Despite heavy load of region’s sensational headlines and stereotypical images, the current Southeast Asia populated by more than 600 million people has currently been experiencing unprecedented and dynamic political and socio-economic changes. Neo-paradigm of wealth and poverty; conflict over rights, identity, social justice, and particularly power; emergence of new actors advocating against the governments; centrality of ASEAN in the region and the world at large; and the like are emerging across the countries in Southeast Asia. Therefore, the interconnectedness between institutions and social groups, state-society relations and democracy, economy and development, and foreign relations of those eleven countries transforming the entire Southeast Asia has become a primary focus of international attention and thus has been recently subjected to careful scrutiny.

TS205: Professional Communication Skills

Given the critical importance of effective communication to enhance performance and productivity, both personally and professionally, this course aims to introduce students to fundamental principles of communication, and effective applications of communication. The principles to be discussed include, inter alia, communication cycles and barriers, six rules of effective message, communication by objective, and communication through technology. Subsequently, the course shifts to practical applications at workplace, namely job search skills, presentation skills and writing skills of memos, reports and proposals. Apart from literature, exercises and case studies are also integral parts of this course.

ECO206: Principles of Macroeconomics

This course is an introduction to the study of the aggregate national economy. It introduces basic models of macroeconomics. It explores issues such as the determinants of economic growth, and how monetary and fiscal policies affect output, employment, unemployment, interest rates, and inflation.

IR207: International Relations II

A continuation from International Relation I, International Relation II emphasizes the complexity of interconnectedness among prominent actors—be them government, civil society, or individuals—who have certain levels of influence over political and economic decisions. Not only so, International Relations II provides students with a more comprehensive look at how conflicts and instability arise in the face of globalization, technological advancement, and intellectual development, and how they are handled through various means. Contemporary global issues, including the environment, healthcare, and human rights, discussed in this course will serve as a great opportunity for students to see how IR theories are at work in today’s challenging world arena.

IR208: Model ASEAN Summit
The Model ASEAN Summit is one of the most unique classes because it is an academic simulation of the annual meeting held by ASEAN in relation to (1) politics and security, (2) economic integration, (3) social welfare and development, (4) ASEAN free trade agreement, (5) transnational crime and international terrorism, and (6) other external relations amongst its 10 member countries and its dialogue partners—China, Japan, and South Korea.

TS209: Critical Thinking for Global Affairs and Local Development
This course is designed to improve students’ critical thinking and analytical skills by looking at global, regional and local affairs. To this end, the course includes several special features aiming at equipping students with necessary skills and knowledge such as critical thinking, logical fallacies, reasoning methods, rational judgment and more.

IR210: ASEAN in Regional and Global Contexts

ASEAN in Regional and Global Contexts looks at the situation in Southeast Asia during the Cold War period and the emergence of regionalization leading to the formation of ASEAN. It discusses the roles and functions of ASEAN, the impact of ASEAN in regional politics and economy, ASEAN’s norms and practice and the transformation of ASEAN in response to international, regional and sub-regional changes. Also, the engagement of ASEAN with the world’s major powers, regional groupings such as EU, and international institutions like UN will be discussed.

R902: Geopolitics (Elective Course)
Geopolitics is the study on how geography determines foreign policy making. The course has two objectives: (1) introduce students to the history and theories of geopolitical thinking. Studying geopolitics is about acquiring tools to analyze events. At the same time, key terms in geopolitics will be explored. These key terms are usually associated with important geographical features that have political significance. Sometimes, these features can also have considerable influence on foreign policy, the domino theory being one prominent example. (2) Open the students’ mind to the world “beyond the water’s edge”, as we call it.

YEAR THREE SUBJECTS

POL301: Political Thoughts and Ideologies

Political theory can be considered a tradition of discourse or a mode of thinking about the significance of political events that can pave ways to a better understanding of our contemporary societies, but is politics necessarily driven purely by sub-rational motives such as material interests or can ideas make a difference? This course is designed to introduce and explore the history, nature, and evolution of political theory—a realm of intellectual inquiry where we examine our most basic concepts and definitions, engage in normative judgment of our existing systems of government, and articulate and defend a vision of the system of political organization we envision to be ideal. It is meant to offer critical insight into the different ways in which political thinkers have responded to the challenges and divisive issues in the complexity of our contemporary political world. By studying the evolving constructs of political theory mainly in the past several centuries, students will gain insight into different approaches that leaders use to solve complex problems of governance and maintenance of social order and that which revolutionizes the ways welcome to understand democracy, justice, rights and politics in a broader sense mainly from the 18th Century, if not ancient time. The course is also designed to provide advanced undergraduates with an opportunity to engage contemporary political theory at a high intellectual level as well as an occasion for theoretical reflection on their own political commitments. It is to demonstrate the ways in which political theory provides us with not only the foundations of our political system, but guidance in understanding, evaluating, and coping with on-going navigation of difference in deeply pluralistic and interdependent societies. Common themes seen in contemporary political thought include governance, property ownership and redistribution, free enterprise, individual liberty, justice, and responsibility for the common welfare.

IR302: International Political Economy

The course aims to equip students with broad critical thinking on the current knowledge of the global political economy through the discussions of different theories, approaches, and definitions. This course will look into specific practical applications of economic and political theories at regional and global levels. It helps students understand the current issues surrounding development and financial system.

RES303: Introduction to Research

This course is intended to provide students with basic, essential research concepts of and how-to approaches to research that can be applied to most social settings, especially in International Studies. This course will be very helpful for conducting small-scale projects and for writing the senior project in the final year. In addition, the concepts in the course will help students critically read and deal with various research findings they may encounter in the future.

LAW304: Public International Law

International Law has an important role in contemporary international society. Understanding its principles, at least at an introductory level, is compulsory for students of International Studies. The course begins with an introduction to central elements of public international law. The areas introduced will cover examples of how international law works in specific fields and will enable students to identify legal issues in current international affairs.

GOV305: Global Governance

This course considers the content of good governance and the question of why it has been widely promoted. Issues such as the politics of development and the roles of civil society will be analyzed. The course will also look into implications of promoting accountable and transparent government and public sector reforms and will then briefly discuss issues relating to global governance.

IR306: Model United Nations
Model United Nations is another unique class because it is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate participants about civics, effective communication, globalization and multilateral diplomacy. This class is meant to prepare you to fully participate in the simulation and to increase your understanding of how the United Nations Security Council deals with and negotiates solutions to global problems such as global climate change, weapons proliferation, human rights, peacemaking, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding.

POL307: Comparative Politics

Designed as a guide to comparative politics, this course looks at institutions and policies of various countries and regions from cross-national/regional perspectives. Topics covered include what comparative politics is, the history of comparative politics, political development, political culture, challenges and alternatives to the development approach, communism, democracy and democratization, and applicability of the various models and paradigms of comparative politics, as well as what lies ahead in comparative politics. Students will be exposed to mono-country, bi-country, and multi-country comparative studies in various fields.

IR308: Institutions in Asia Pacific

At the heart of International Relations lies a continuous examination of the development of inter-state relations and different community building initiatives and projects to govern such. Remarkably, the Asia-Pacific, which is contested even in the definition itself, is known as a diverse region that owns most of the world population and an important arena where different major regional powers including U.S., China, and Japan cooperate, resulting in various community building projects while concurrently competing against one another. As a state cannot be alone traveler for peace and prosperity in this age of globalization and the impacts of what happens in the Asia-Pacific can be felt beyond the geographic area, this region and a set of institutions are worthy of comprehensive study. The course is designed for students who seek a better understanding of what the Asia-Pacific is, who involves in the building of the “regional architecture,” what the regionalism and its limitations, if any, is, and what the regionalism associated with institutions in the Asia-Pacific is likely to be.

RES309: Research Methods in International Relations
This course is specifically designed for students of International Relations (International Studies). The main objective of this course is to introduce students to both research methodologies and methods commonly used in the discipline of International Relations and a broad research process roadmap, ranging from formulating research questions to selecting research designs, collecting and analyzing data, and writing research reports. Specifically this course aims to help students identify their research topics, formulate research questions, organize literature review, and select appropriate research designs and methods for their research projects. At the end of the course, students are required to submit their complete research proposals. It is expected that those research proposals can be converted into full research if students are selected to join the Honours Program in their final year.

IR310: Critical IR Theories
Political theory can be considered a tradition of discourse or a mode of thinking about the significance of political events that can pave ways to a better understanding of our contemporary politics and societies. The main body of the scholarship includes the history, nature, and evolution of political theory—a realm of intellectual inquiry where we examine our most basic concepts and definitions, engage in normative judgment of our existing systems of government and governance, and articulate and defend a vision of the system of political organization we envision to be ideal. It is meant to offer critical insight into the different ways in which political thinkers have responded to the challenges and divisive issues in the complexity of our contemporary political world. The central question in any political debates is whether politics is necessarily driven purely by sub-rational motives such as material interests or can ideas make a difference?

International Relations (IRs) theory is no exception and has been the subject of intense academic, intellectual and political debates. It has witnessed highly divergent approaches and interpretations, theoretical trajectories and contending positions as well as applications of key concepts and contested views about the different logics of action and the practical purpose underpinning those generalizations and/or theorizations. This course is designed to provide the participants with a solid theoretical and conceptual grounding of this complexity and diversity and an opportunity to engage key contemporary IRs theories at a high intellectual level as well as an occasion for theoretical reflection on their own political commitments. Since it engages more closely critical IR and interpretative understanding and analysis, it departs from the mainstream or orthodox theories and places more emphases on the critical alternatives to the orthodoxy.

YEAR FOUR SUBJECTS (REGULAR PROGRAM)

Concentration: International Relations

IR401: Foreign Policy I

This course aims at introducing students to the various methods by which foreign policies of states are analyzed and compared. It is divided into two parts. The first part examines theoretical approaches to foreign policy analysis. There are essentially three approaches to foreign policy studies. The course will examine: (a) studies that explain foreign policy at the level of individual policy makers; (b) studies that explain foreign policy in terms of factors at the level of domestic politics (including bureaucratic politics, domestic power politics, and national identity); and (c) studies that explain foreign policy at the level of international system.

IR402: Governance Issues in Developing Countries

This course equips students with theoretical and empirical knowledge of governance issues in developing countries. It is divided into two parts. In the first part of the course, students are familiarized with various major governance issues in developing countries. The themes covered in this course include inequality, human rights, gender, environment, development, etc. The second part of the course illustrates these issues with country-specific case studies from different parts of the world with a heavy focus on Southeast Asian countries.

IS403: Globalization and Social Change

This course provides students with theoretical frameworks and factual knowledge about the concepts, dynamics, and impacts of globalization. At the outset, the course introduces students to the theoretical debates about the concept, history, and dynamics of globalization. The second part of the course provides students with opportunities to examine the impacts of globalization on social order, specifically on states’ economies, governance, and identities. Then the course leads students to explore the links between globalization and (in)security, (in)equality, and (un)democracy. Finally, the course introduces the possible policy measures which can minimize the harm and maximize the benefits of globalization.

IR404: Conflict Resolution

This course surveys theoretical and empirical knowledge of conflict resolution. The first part of the course introduces the students to the field of conflict studies, which is rich in theoretical and methodological approaches. Next, students are engaged with a variety learning activities designed to help them understand and to explain the causes of conflict. The final part explores a variety of theoretical approaches and practical policy measures to resolve conflicts.

IR405: Order, Actors and Power in International Relations
This advanced IR course equips students with theoretical and practical knowledge of international relations, while sharpening analytical and critical thinking skills. The course covers major theoretical foundations, Realism, Neoliberalism and Constructivism, and examines the historical development of IR as an academic field, its methodological debates, and its institutional evolution.

Students will also engage deeply with the nature of power, the roles of state and non-state actors, and the formation and transformation of international order. The course aims to enable students to apply theories to real-world geopolitical development and enhance their readiness for research, particularly their these.

IR411: Comparative Statecraft in Asia

Comparative Statecraft in Asia is a course that examines how Asian states exercise political power, govern domestic affairs, manage economic and social challenges, and pursue national interests in an increasingly complex regional and global environment. The course introduces students to comparative approaches to understanding statecrafts, with particular attention to leadership, political institutions, governance strategies, diplomacy, economic policy, strategic culture, and state – society relations. Through comparative case studies of major and emerging Asian powers, students will explore how different political systems and historical experiences shape the ways states respond to domestic pressures, regional competition, security challenges, and global change. The course combines, theoretical perspectives with contemporary cases to develop students' ability to compare state strategies, identify patterns of continuity and change, and critically assess the effectiveness and implications of different approaches to statecraft in Asia.

IR412: Critical IR Theories

Political theory can be considered a tradition of discourse or a mode of thinking about the significance of political events that can pave ways to a better understanding of our contemporary politics and societies. The main body of the scholarship includes the history, nature, and evolution of political theory – a realm of intellectual inquiry where we examine our most basic concepts and definitions, engage in normative judgment of our existing systems of government and governance, and articulate and defend a vision of the system of political organization we envision to be ideal. It is meant to offer critical insight into the different ways in which political thinkers have responded to the challenges and divisive issues in the complexity of our contemporary political world. The central question in any political debates is whether politics is necessarily driven purely by sub-rational motives such as material interests or can ideas make a difference?

International Relations (IRs) theory is no exception and has been the subject of intense academic, intellectual and political debates. It has witnessed highly divergent approaches and interpretations, theoretical trajectories and contending positions as well as applications of key concepts and contested views about the different logics of action and the practical purpose underpinning those generalizations and/or theorizations. This course is designed to provide the participants with a solid theoretical and conceptual grounding of this complexity and diversity and an opportunity to engage key contemporary IRs theories at a high intellectual level as well as an occasion for theoretical reflection on their own political commitments. Since it engages more closely critical IR and interpretative understanding and analysis, it departs from the mainstream or orthodox theories and places more emphases on the critical alternatives to the orthodoxy.

IR406: Foreign Policy: The Diplomacy of Small States
This course is about the making of small states’ foreign policy choices. It provides a general introduction to the history, traditions, approaches and theories of small states in conducting their diplomacy to pursue their foreign policy objectives. The course centers on theoretical and analytical tools as well as empirical information to understand and analyze small states’ foreign policy. Moreover, the course primarily aims to teach students to systematically explain and critically evaluate small states’ foreign policy.

There are three major parts and goals of the course. The first is to understand the history of small states in the Westphalian system throughout its historical incarnation from 17th to 21st century. Small states’ survival, proliferation and termination deserve our critical scrutiny in the structure shaped by power politics. Second, the class examines the intellectual processes by which small states’ diplomacy is made. This part is normative since it aims to provide students with theoretical and conceptual foundations for theoretically understanding and systematically analyzing small states’ foreign policy. To put it in a nutshell, the class examines key theoretical debates on small states’ diplomacy in international relations. Third, the class explores the political processes by which small states’ foreign policy choices are made. This part is positive and theoretical because it explores international, societal, institutional and decision-making influences on small states’ foreign policy choices. It aims to provide conceptual foundations for analytically and systematically explaining how and why small states’ foreign policy is conducted.

Three major goals are related, indeed. First of all, understanding the history of small states allows us to meaningfully and critically understand how and why those small states have existed, evolved and/or disappeared in the Westphalian system since October 1648. Second, comprehending both intellectual and political processes by which small states’ foreign policy is made enables us to more systematically, critically and effectively explain and evaluate substances and processes of small states’ diplomacy. The course highly encourages students throughout the semester to ask how and why small states’ diplomacy is conducted, as well as to think about what small states’ foreign policy should be and what the best process is for making sound foreign policy choices to maximize their interests at various levels.

LAW407: International Human Rights Law

This course examines the philosophy of human rights protection; the universal protection of human rights in international human rights law, in particular through the work of the UN Human Rights Council and other treaty-based committees. It offers an overview of the existing conventions and institutions. Indeed, this course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills—notably legal expertise sensitivity to cultural differences and knowledge of the UN system and its NGOs interfaces—necessary to be effective human rights workers and/or advocates within governments, NGOs and organizations more generally.

IR408: International Development Economics

Problems in the growth of underdeveloped countries will be explored. The course strives to find answers to questions such as: Why some countries are richer than others? What accounts for the different growth rates among countries? Topics covered include the consequences of market structures, population growth, externalities, institutions, and political factors for economic development.

IR409: Asia-Pacific Security Studies

This course explores the complex and evolving field of international security in Asia-Pacific, examining the major threats and challenges facing the global community in the 21st century. Students will critically analyze traditional security and non-traditional security concepts alongside emerging issues, including interstate conflict, terrorism, environmental degradation, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The course will delve into the theoretical frameworks used to understand international security, such as realism, liberalism, and constructivism, and conceptual frameworks such as human security, securitization theory and apply these frameworks to real-world case studies. Students will also examine the role of various actors in international security, including states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and individuals. Through readings, discussions, and research, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of international security and the challenges of achieving peace and stability in a complex world.

IR410: Diplomacy: Theory and Practice

Diplomacy, the art and conduct of relations among states, and between states and other actors, is an important means/instrument which states employ to pursue their foreign policy goals. Diplomacy is mainly, but not exclusively, conducted by professional diplomats working for the ministries of foreign affairs. As far as students of International Relations are concerned, the knowledge of modern diplomacy is a valuable asset for them. With such knowledge, students will be able to pursue not only their academic goals but also their dream careers in the ministries of foreign affairs. Against this background, this course is designed to introduce students to the nature and practice of modern diplomacy. At the outset, the course introduces students to the structure and functioning of the ministries of foreign affairs, the states’ principal institutions tasked with conducting diplomatic relations with other actors on the world stage. Next, the course leads students to examine the work of diplomats. In other words, this course guides students to examine and analyze the processes, methods, opportunities, and challenges of diplomatic negotiations and relations conducted by diplomats who are stationed both inside states and inside embassies overseas.
 

YEAR FOUR SUBJECTS (REGULAR PROGRAM)

Concentration: International Trade and Entrepreneurship

IE401: International Trade Theory and Policy
This course starts with the development of the basis of trade: absolute advantage, comparative advantage, partial and general equilibrium analysis, the Heckscher-Ohlin model, and intra-industry trade, as other modern international trade theories direct investment. We will analyze the causes and consequences of international trade and foreign direct investment. We will discuss why countries trade, who is affected by trade, the pattern of trade, the impact of protection, and international factor movements. An analysis of the motives for nations to regulate international trade and the effects of such policies on economic welfare will be studied in detail. Topic covered will include, but not be limited to, the effects of trade on economic growth and agreements, and current trade policies. In this course, we will employ formal economic modeling to help students understand the past and current events in the world economy.

IE402: International Monetary Economic
The course offers students the basic knowledge about the international financial aspects of the international flow of goods, services, capital, technology, and labor. Students will learn about the basic concepts of the exchange rate, its determinants, the foreign exchange market, and other macroeconomic policies that will affect the exchange rate. Some of the main topic being covered are the basic idea of balance of payment, the monetary policy, fiscal policy, inflation, the fixed and floating exchange rate regimes, and the intervention of the central bank on the exchange rate. Currency union, international capital market, and global financial crisis will also be included.

IE403: International Trade Negotiation and Agreement

The Trade Negotiation Course is designed to deepen our students' understanding of the process of bilateral and regional trade negotiation, specifically in terms of the preparation process that each member state is required to complete prior to, during and post the negotiation of various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Additionally, this course also aims to illustrate the techniques, approaches, and 21strategies used by the trade negotiators, which often reflect their national interests and policies beyond international economic and trade affairs. Students are expected to learn how to conduct common analysis on trade policies based on the recent case studies, including but not limited to Cambodia, ASEAN, and other FTAs. Furthermore, students are also expected to be equipped with general knowledge on the fundamental concepts and overview of international trade, economics, and WTO laws, their principles, and challenges.

IE 404: Public Policy Analysis

Policy analysis is a process of multidisciplinary inquiry aiming at the creation, critical assessment, and communication of policy-relevant knowledge. As a problem-solving discipline, it draws on social science method, theories, and substantive findings to solve practical problems. The subject provides students with a comprehensive methodology of policy analysis. It starts from the premise that policy analysis is an applied social science discipline designed for solving practical skills needed to communicate findings through memos, position papers, and other forms of structures analytical writing. The course engages students by challenging them to critically analyze the arguments of policy practitioners as well as political scientists, economists, and political philosophers.

IE405: Econometrics2

Through this course, students will get a broad knowledge of statistical methods for analyzing econometric models for time-series and panel data. In addition to the theoretical approach, students will also learn how to use the computer's data analysis program package to regress empirical data.

IE406: International Finance and Risk Management

The goal of this course is to expose students to the fundamental concepts of Investment and Risk Management. This will include an introduction to option markets, option valuation, future markets, swaps, and risk management. This course provides a rigorous treatment of the core concepts of derivatives for finance majors. It broadly covers financial instruments, such as option contracts, option trading, option valuation, option strategies, put and call options, option valuation models, futures, swaps, and risk management, and others. We will also use an MS Excel spreadsheet to do the option pricing and other analysis.

IE407: Applied International Trade Analysis

Applied International Trade Analysis is intended to teach students the sources of data for trade analysis and the quantitative methods for analyzing international trade issues. Students will learn both how to do numerical analysis using software to come up with solutions and how to evaluate trade policy evaluation and recommendations. The topics covered will include trade flow analysis, partial equilibrium, trade competitiveness diagnostics, and other techniques.

IE408: International Development Economics

Problem in the growth of developing countries will be explored. The course strives to find answers to questions such as: Why are some countries richer others? What accounts for the different growth rates among countries? Thus, it begins with a discussion of growth models and then move on to the analysis of, for example, health and education, population, urbanization, rural development, and international trade and finance.

IE409: Global Supply Chain Management

Over the years, most firms have focused their attention on the effectiveness and efficiency of separate business functions such as purchasing, production, marketing, financing, and logistics. The lack of connectivity among these functions, however, can lead to sub-optimal organizational goals and create inefficiency by duplicating organizational efforts and resources. This course focuses on how to enhance the synergy of inter-functional and interorganizational integration and coordination across the supply chain and to subsequently make better strategic decisions. The topic covered include the process, strategic importance of planning, controlling, and designing a supply chain as a whole, as well as monitoring and evaluation.
 

IE410: E-commerce and Fintech

The goal of this course is to teach students how to use information and communication technologies for the company to compete successfully in global markets and find new and maintain existing customers with minimal costs. The course usually consists of several basic lectures and some special lectures by experts from practice. In addition, the course offers students the basic concept and rapid growth in financial technology and application in the financial market and industries, Topic covered includes: Fintech and financial products, Fintech and banking industries, Fintech and cryptocurrency, Fintech and fintech market, Fintech and foreign exchange market, market, Fintech and startup, Fintech regulation, Fintech and socioeconomic development

Clubs and Extra-Curricula Programs

It is quite common knowledge that to become well-rounded and useful citizens of a nation, particularly a developing one, and to release stress, school and university students should participate in extra-curricular activities and social events such New Year Celebration, Clean-Up Day, charity trips, community service, and sports. The following clubs and program were established or is being established to achieve this goal.

ASEAN Study tour

This new initiative aims to take the students to different countries of ASEAN annually. The visit will help enhance their practical awareness of ASEAN identity and to promote people-to-people connectivity among the people in Southeast Asia. During the tour, the students will interact academically and socially with those of the ASEAN host university and exchange views on ASEAN policy issues with well-known scholars and researchers of the host university. Such interactions also help boost Cambodia students' substantive insight, self-confidence, communication skills and leadership quality.

DIR Southeast Asian Conversation Series

Southeast Asia Conversation Series is a signature forum in which DIR hosts prominent scholars, researchers and policy practitioners working on Southeast Asia. It seeks to offer the students, who have acquired theoretical and conceptual insights in the class, an opportunity to further explore the issues in a practical fashion and to interact with the experts in substantial manner. In addition to the exchange of views, the students will have a chance to build up and expand their research networks with the invited speakers.

English for Academic Purposes

English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is an English course that aims to help students who wish to enhance their four macro skills: listening, reading, writing, and specking and two imbedded sub-skills: vocabulary and grammar so that they are able to cope successfully with their study at university level. With the requirement of official IELTS overall band score 6 for DIR students to graduate, the EAP course at the Department of International Relations serves to help students meet the requirement. The EAP course consists of seven levels, with the last being an IELTS preparation. Those students who progress through the levels and complete IELST preparation will sit for official IELST test. The test fee will be paid by the department. EAP and IELTS Preparation Course are open to all students – both DIR and non-DIR.

English for International Students (EIS)

The English for International Students (EIS) program aims to develop students' proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English, with a particular focus on their application in international affairs. It equips students with specialized vocabulary and language structures relevant to diplomacy, global governance, and international relations while fostering critical thinking and analytical skills to engage with global issues effectively. The program also enhance students' academic writing abilities, enabling them to produce well-structured essays, policy briefs, and research reports. Additionally, it emphasizes professional communication skills, including negotiation, debate, and diplomatic discourse, to prepare students for careers in international studies. By integrating intercultural competence, the program helps students understand and engage with diverse perspectives, developing a global outlook. Through simulations, case studies, and project-based learning, students gain practical experience in applying their language skills to real-world interational affairs contexts.

DIR Academic Support Program

Academic Support Program of the Department of International Relations aims to provide students with a wide range of academic supports/services that will contribute to their academic and personal growth. To this end, we offer a variety of free-of-charge counseling and mentoring services such as study skills, academic writing assistance, English languages assistance, test-taking strategies, scholarship tips, and other study-related challenges. We also offer regular academic skills workshop series to students to ensure that they enjoy a smooth academic ride and handle challenges effectively. Our ultimate goal is to strive to promote overall academic success and outstanding performance for students so that they become successful learners.

IISPP Debate Society

Recognizing the need for students to develop strong English communication skills in order to compete in the international arena, the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy founded in the IISPP Debate Society with the aim of developing skills in education, business, communicaion and networking, through participation in ASEAN events, such as the ASEAN Varsities' Debate, the All Asians' Debate, and the Australian-Asian Intervarsity Debate Championship.

The club's members can improve their English language competence, general knowledge about ASEAN nations and the rest of the world, and their reasoning, analytical and critical thingking skills. They exchagne ideas and experiences with ane another and develop confidence in public speaking, particularly expressing and defending ideas before large audiences.

IISPP Football Team

IISPP Football Team was founded in 2016. It was the first time ever that IISPP has its own football team to compete in the RUPP Tournament. IISPP Football Team provides students with opportunities to build and strengthen their friendship across different year levels and a sense of belonging and attachment. Also, it is meant to build team spirit and a sence of cooperation, not to mention the physical and emotional endurance and stamina, all od which can be of great use for their personal and professional lives.

REGULAR AND ELECTIVE COURSES