Qualification Aims and Objectives

The course develops students’ understanding of political concepts such as power, sovereignty, human rights, development and peace across local, national, international and global contexts. It fosters scientific (social-scientific) inquiry, critical thinking and practical investigation, encouraging students to be knowledgeable, inquiring, open-minded and to appreciate the impact of politics on society, the environment and global challenges.

Objectives

• Develop a deep conceptual understanding of key political principles, processes and actors.
• Acquire and apply knowledge of political concepts, frameworks, methods and investigative techniques.
• Build practical and analytical skills through case-studies, experiential engagement and collaborative work.
• Consider the ethical, cultural, economic, social and environmental implications of political activity.
• Prepare for further study and careers in government, diplomacy, international relations, policy analysis, human rights advocacy and global development.

Course Outline

Syllabus Themes

• People, power and politics (core units for all students): Power, sovereignty and international relations; human rights; development; peace and conflict.
• Engagement activity: Students explore a political issue experientially, supported by theory and submit a written report.
• Students examine contemporary global political challenges through detailed case-studies.

Assessment (HL)

• External (80%): Examinations based on case-studies, thematic units and political challenges through stimulus-based, data-driven, short-answer and extended-response questions.
• Internal (20%): Engagement activity — a real-world investigation into a political issue, including research, analysis and written report.

Future courses and possible careers

Government & Public Policy • Diplomacy & International Relations • Human Rights Advocacy • Global Development • Journalism & Media • Policy Analysis • Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) • Legal and Human Rights Practice • Public Affairs • Research & Academia • Corporate Social Responsibility • International Business Strategy