UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Degree and Programme Title Graduate Diploma in Politics and International Relations for
Postgraduate Study
1. Awarding Institution/Body
University of Kent
2. Teaching Institution
University of Kent
3. Teaching Site
Canterbury
4. Programme accredited by
N/A
5. Final Award
Graduate Diploma
6. Programme
Graduate Diploma in Politics and International
Relations for Postgraduate Study
7. UCAS Code (or other code)
N/A
8. Relevant QAA subject benchmarking
Politics and International Relations (P) and
Language and Related Studies(LRS)
group(s)
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/Informati
onAndGuidance/Documents/politics.pdf
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/academicinfrastructure/ben
chmark/statements/languages07.pdf
9. Date of production/revision
May 2012
10. Applicable cohort(s)
From September 2012
11. Educational Aims of the Programme
The programme aims to:
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Prepare international students for the academic challenges of postgraduate study in Politics and
International Relations
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Offer a range of politics and international relations modules which will provide a solid
grounding for further study at Masters level in the UK
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Develop academic and research skills in politics and international relations
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Enable students, on completion, to study successfully alongside others who have completed a full
UK politics and international relations degree
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Enable students to develop their independent study and research skills in the context of
postgraduate politics and international relations study.
Increase students’ proficiency in English for general academic purposes and English for Politics
and International Relations study to a standard which is equivalent to 6.5 in IELTS or C1 on
CEFR (NB C1 incorporates the IELTS equivalent range from 6.5-.7.0)
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
12. Programme Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Teaching/learning and assessment methods and
strategies used to enable outcomes to be achieved
and demonstrated
A. Knowledge and Understanding of:
Acquisition of (A1-9) is achieved through a
combination of taught classes, lectures, seminars
critically with (international) politics and
and group work, depending on and appropriate to
political phenomena including the
the modules being studied. Throughout the
vocabulary of political debate; the
programme, students are provided with the
structure and operation of different
(international) political systems; the social, opportunity to develop critical engagement with
political and linguistic knowledge (as per
economic, historical and cultural contexts
benchmark statement -LRS and P). Teaching is
of political behaviour; and the factors
student-centred, involving collaborative work as
accounting for political change (P6.5)
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding well as the encouragement of learner autonomy.
of different political systems, the
Assessment takes place through a combination of
nature and distribution of power in them;
written and oral coursework, presentations,
the social, economic, historical and
portfolios and unseen written exams as well as
cultural contexts within which they
individual and group project work (as per
operate, and the relationships between
benchmark LRS 4.1, 4.2 and P5.8)
them (P6.5)
There is regular and ongoing feedback on the
3. Understand the nature and significance of
development of knowledge and skills in politics and
politics as a human activity (P4.14)
international relations and language proficiency.
1. Demonstrate a familiarity and engage
4. Apply concepts, theories and methods
used in the study of politics to the
analysis of political ideas, institutions
and practices (P4.14)
5. The structures, registers and varieties of
English to a level sufficient for them to be
successful on a University of Kent degree
programme. (LRS 2.2, 5.1, 5.3, 6.3 & 6.4)
6. Academic literacy and skills - in
particular, the use of English for Academic
Purposes ( CFTP F ii) (LRS4.1)
7. An appropriate degree of factual and
conceptual knowledge of Politics and
International Relations for the purposes of
University Study depending on the
modules taken.(CFTP F i)
8. Academic and social cultures and practices
other than one’s own. (LRS 4.4)
9. Intercultural language issues
(LRS 4.6)
Skills and Other Attributes
B. Intellectual Skills, including:
1. Analysis, through being able to
discriminate between the relevant and the
irrelevant. (P6.5)
Acquisition of (B1-9) is achieved through a mix of
lectures, tutor- and student-led seminars, group
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
2. Synthesis, through bringing together
material studied in lectures, seminars and
wider reading (P6.7)
3. Engage in critical thinking and reflection,
verbal discussion and written and
interpretative analysis of key material.
(CFTP c) (P5.6)
4. Present, evaluate and interpret a variety of
data using defined techniques in a logical
and systematic fashion.(CFTP b) (LRS 5)
(P4.16)
5. Present rational and reasoned theses and
arguments to a range of audiences.
(CFTP ii) (P4.16)
6. Develop lines of argument and make
sound judgments in accordance with the
basic theories, methods, principles and
concepts of the subjects. (CFTP ii & c)
(P4.16)
7. Separate fact from opinion, and identify a
writer’s argument as opposed to what is a
counter-argument in a text.
(CFTP c)
8. Assess the merits of contrasting theories
and explanations, and make links across
different subjects.
(CFTP d) (P4.15;4.16)
9. Distinguish among and use an appropriate
range of technical and numerical systems
and/or a range of spoken and written
academic and other registers, styles and
genres.
(LRS 5.14 & 6.8)
C. Subject-specific Skills: These should
include practice and professional skills
tutorials, workshops and presentations, depending
on and appropriate to the modules being studied (as
per benchmark statement LRS 6 P5). In addition,
key skills of analysis, synthesis and critical thinking
are embedded within a wide range of the
programme’s modules. Learning and teaching is
student-centred, involving collaborative work, as
well as the encouragement of learner autonomy.
This aims to make the process satisfying,
stimulating, inclusive, challenging and productive.
Assessment takes place through a combination of
written and oral coursework, presentations,
portfolios, written reports, practical assignments
and written exams (as per benchmark statements
LRS 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, 6.15 and 6.18, P5.8). There is
regular and ongoing feedback on content, language
and the presentation of factual interpretation.
Acquisition of (C1-6) is achieved through a mix of
lectures, tutor- and student-led seminars, group
tutorials, workshops and presentations. Teaching
and learning occurs through a combination of
lectures, tutor- and student-led seminars, classes,
directed study, group tutorials, workshops and
presentations depending on and appropriate to the
modules being studied (as per benchmark
3. Acquire knowledge and
statements LRS 6.8 and 6.9 and P5.2, 5.3). The
understanding in appropriate areas of
combination of politics and international relations
theory and analysis (P4.12)
modules studied will allow students to develop a
4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding core set of key skills for study within this field
whilst facilitating some scope for specialism in
of different political systems, the
areas of key interest which bring with them their
nature and distribution of power in them;
own realisation of certain skills.
the social, economic, historical and
cultural contexts within which they
Assessment takes place through a combination of
operate, and the relationships between
written and oral coursework, presentations,
them (P4.14)
1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of
defining and acknowledging the breadth
and diversity of politics and
international relations. (P1.4)
2. Demonstrate knowledge of a substantial
range of major concepts, values, principles
and rules of the discipline (P4.12)
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
5. Demonstrate an appropriate level of
subject-specific linguistic competence.
(LRS 5) (CFTP i) (L 8.1)
6. Evaluate the reliability and validity of
source data (factual, theoretical,
quantitative, qualitative) and incorporate
own opinion in appropriate manner. (LRS
5.14) (P4.16)
D. Transferable Skills:
1. Communicate effectively and fluently
in speech and writing (P4.17)
2. Construct reasoned argument,
synthesize relevant information and
exercise critical judgment (P4.16)
3. Recognise the importance of explicit
referencing and the ethical
requirements
of study which requires critical and
reflective use of information and
communications technology in the
learning process (P4.16)
4. Application and problem solving (P4.16)
5. Where relevant and as the basis for an
argument, to use, present and evaluate
information provided in numerical or
statistical form (P4.17)
6. Work in groups as a participant who
contributes effectively to the group's task
through the preparation of projects,
seminars and presentations, and through
general pair- and group-work in class.
(P4.17) (LRS 5.16)
portfolios, written reports, practical assignments
and written exams (as per benchmark statements
LRS 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, 6.15 and 6.18, P5.8). There is
regular and ongoing feedback on language and the
presentation of Political and International Relations
content.
Transferable skills are incorporated within each of
the modules, and taught in the way described
above. Particular attention is paid to these in the
core Advanced English for Academic Study and
English for Academic Study in Social Sciences
+ Humanities. Skills are assessed as part of the
coursework assessment (as per benchmark
statements LRS 6.8 and 6.9, P5.7). General IT
facilities are used throughout the course. Browsers,
search engines and catalogues are used for research
and self-study. Depending on and appropriate to the
pathway, students work in teams on group project
work.
Assessment takes place through a combination of
written and oral coursework, presentations,
portfolios, written reports, practical assignments
and written exams (as per benchmark statements
LRS 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, 6.15 and 6.18, P5.8). There is
regular and ongoing feedback on language and the
presentation of Political and International Relations
content.
7. Demonstrate a degree of autonomy,
showing the ability to learn effectively
using own resources, and to be organised
and meet deadlines.
(P6.9; LRS 5.15 & 6.7)
8. Have good IT skills (P6.9) (LRS 5.15)
9. Recognise own strengths and weaknesses
and improve performance as a result. (LRS
5.9 & 6.3) (CFTP a) (L 7.2)
10. Apply critical skills and academic skills
across all modules. (P6.7; LRS 5.13 & 14;
(CFTP d)
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
13. Programme Structures and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards
The programme operates as a Graduate Diploma in Politics and International Relations for
Postgraduate Study which, on successful completion, would enable students to be considered for
Postgraduate study in Politics and International Relations in the following academic year.
The programme is managed by CEWL, in terms of administration and pastoral care, however
programme planning, monitoring, quality assurance and recruitment will be managed on a collaborative
basis between both CEWL and the School of Politics and International Relations. This will be essential
given the differing areas of expertise which will contribute to the operation of this route of study.
The Programme is comprised of 120 credits and is studied over one academic year. Students will study
a range of modules, the majority of which are at level H. Politics and International Relations subject
content comprises 75 of the total 120 credits. All modules selected are subject to confirmation that the
student studies an appropriate balance of modules across the Autumn and Spring Terms. CEWL and
the School of Politics and International Relations staff will together advise students on appropriate
balance of module choice across the two terms. Students will select the Politics/International Relations
content based on chosen MA that they wish to proceed onto after the GDip. On successful completion
students will be considered for the appropriate Masters within the School of Politics and International
Relations.
Advanced English for Academic Study and English for Academic Study in Social Sciences +
Humanities are required modules and contribute a total of 45 credits to the total 60 credits of required
module content. The remaining 15 credits of required module content is provided by a 15 credit H/I
level module offered by the School of Politics and International Relations. This particular module will
be selected based on relevance to the particular Masters that a student wishes to pursue after
completion of the GDip. For example, students wishing to pursue an MA in Comparative Federalism
would be required to take PO661 Key Debates in Comparative Politics together with the above named
core English for Academic Purpose modules (Advanced English for Academic Study and English for
Academic Study in Social Sciences + Humanities) as part of their required module contribution.
Students are then able to select a further 60 credits of subject content from the optional list of Honours
level modules offered by the School of Politics and International Relations. Students will be provided
with academic guidance on appropriate module choice selection by the appropriate Programme
Director in the School of Politics and International Relations. The optional list of modules should be
viewed as a sample of what would be made available to students on this programme. Students will also
be able to select from new modules offered by the School of Politics and International Relations as
these become available, provided that the level (i.e. H level) and credit weighting remain appropriate.
NB students choosing PO640 as their 15 credit required module will subsequently select optional
modules to the value of 45 credits as this is a 30 credit module.
Where it is indicated that an optional Politics and International Relations module has pre-requisites,
applicants must evidence that they have covered appropriate content in previous academic study prior
to acceptance on to the programme.
Group sizes are designed to facilitate maximum student participation. The programme is arranged in 2
X 12 week terms, and a final six-week term, making 30 weeks in total.
Each 15-credit module includes 2-3 hours of direct teaching per week in both 12 week terms. The
English for Academic Study in Social Sciences + Humanities module includes up to 5 hours’
direct contact per week in each of the 12-week terms.
The structure of the programme and the modules which comprise it, their levels, credits, and
the terms in which they are taught are shown on the next page:
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Code
Title
Level
Credits
Term(s)
Graduate Diploma in Politics and International Relations for Postgraduate Study - 1 Academic
year in duration (September to June)
Core Modules (Amounting to 45 credits)
LZ602
Advanced English for
Academic Study
H
15
Autumn & Spring
LZ605
English for Academic Study in
Social Sciences + Humanities
H
30
Autumn & Spring
Plus one of the following required modules (depending on intended Masters)
PO661
Key Debates in Comparative
I
15
Autumn
Politics
PO640
EU politics and policy
I
30*
Autumn & Spring
PO555
UN system
I
15
Autumn
PO592 or
PO593
(these run
in
alternative
years)
Rights, Freedoms and
Individualism: Contemporary
Liberalism in Question/
Engendering Politics: Feminist
Contributions to Political
Theory
H
15
Spring
Optional Modules (to the value of 60 credits) to be selected from the optional list of H level
modules offered by the School of Politics and International Relations. See
http://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/modulecatalogue/socialsciences.html for further details. This
could include PO559; PO563; PO634; PO657. The module PO590 (Specialist Dissertation) may
not be taken by students registered on the Graduate Diploma.
*Students selecting this module will select optional modules to the value of 45 credits
14.
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Support for Students and their Learning
Pre-arrival guide
Online pre-arrival materials
Induction programme
Programme and module Handbooks
Library orientation sessions
Learning resources room
Graduate School training sessions
Personal Tutor support
Academic Skills development sessions (PDP) and additional language related support via
CEWL’s English Language Development Programme
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Presentations on and guidance relating to central support services
14. Entry Profile
The minimum age to study a degree programme at the university is normally at least 17 years old by 20
September in the year the course begins. There is no upper age limit.
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Entry Route
For fuller information, please refer to the University prospectus

International applicants:
International students can qualify with the following:
 Undergraduate study at an overseas University or
institution in Politics and International Relations
 A undergraduate degree from a UK institution
where Politics/International Relations has
represented a component but not the principal
focus of study
 A relevant Foundation degree, ordinary
(Bachelors) degree, Diploma of Higher Education
or other higher diploma in Politics/International
Relations
 Average 6.0 in IELTS test, minimum 6.0 in Reading
and Writing (Students will need to meet the
Politics/International Relations linguistic entry
requirement by gaining an equivalent grade in
LZ605, the Programme’s English for Academic
Study in Social Sciences + Humanities module.
 TOEFL (Computer Based) No less than 210 (Essay
rating minimum of 4.5)
Cambridge Proficiency No less than B
Cambridge Advanced No less than A
O Level, GCSE English or no less than B
What does this programme have to offer?
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A structured and supportive learning environment to develop both academic and language
skills
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A strong and rigorous foundation for postgraduate study that will enable students to pursue
academic study in Politics and International Relations
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The opportunity to study a wide range of Politics and International Relations modules
delivered by a highly prestigious academic school
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The development of transferable skills including time management, team work, research and IT
skills, library and bibliographic research skills and problem-solving skills
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Tuition by experienced and talented academics both in the field of Politics/International
Relations and in the teaching of Research skills and English for Academic Purposes
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The opportunity to progress to a Postgraduate Politics and International Relations degree on
successful completion of the programme and meeting the rules of progression
Personal Profile
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A high level of interest and motivation in developing subject knowledge as well as linguistic
and academic skills in Politics and International Relations
A suitable level of English proficiency and a willingness to develop this through reading and
writing, listening and speaking widely both inside and outside the classroom.
A willingness to develop independent learning skills associated with postgraduate study
Intellectual curiosity and a willingness to develop critical thinking, analytical and problem-
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
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solving skills and to use them appropriately in a higher-education context.
A focus in developing a career associated with Politics and International Relations
15. Methods for Evaluating and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and
Learning
Mechanisms for review and evaluation of teaching, learning, assessment, the curriculum and
outcome standards
Such as
 Student module evaluations via questionnaires, personal tutorials, and student representation
 Annual reports
 Scrutiny of the programme by the external examiner and external examiner’s report
 Annual staff appraisal
 Peer observation
 Double marking and/or moderation of assessed work and examinations
 Ongoing Programme review
 Periodic Programme Review
 Observations by Representatives from Politics/International Relations and Director of CEWL
Committees with responsibility for monitoring and evaluating quality and standards
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CEWL Learning & Teaching Committee
CEWL Director of Learning and Teaching
Faculty Learning and Teaching Committee
Learning and Teaching Board
Staff-student liaison committee
Programme Approval sub-committee of the University Learning and Teaching Board
Board of Examiners
Board of Studies
Mechanisms for gaining student feedback on the quality of teaching and their learning
experience
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Staff-student liaison committee
Student evaluation questionnaires
Ongoing group and individual feedback sought by teachers
Personal academic support through tutorials and individual feedback
Student representation on other committees
Staff Development priorities include:
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Minimum expected qualification for appointment
Staff appraisal scheme
Staff development provided by University
Staff development provided by CEWL and School of Politics and International Relations
Regular formal and informal collaboration in programme development
Conferences and seminars related to subjects taught
Membership of relevant professional/academic bodies
High level of academic/teaching qualifications on appointment
Knowledge and implementation of current professional practice in the field
Dissemination of good practice on new learning and teaching methods
Self-evaluation
Programme team meetings
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16. Indicators of Quality and Standards
 Student achievement on completion of the programme
 Student progression onto degree programmes both at Kent and elsewhere
 Student achievement on completion of postgraduate study
 QA through External examining
 Alumni feedback
 Internal subject reviews
The following reference points were used in creating these specifications:
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QAA Benchmarking Statement for Politics and International Relations
QAA Benchmarking Statement for Languages and Related Studies
University of Kent Credit Framework for Taught Programmes
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