Module details for 2026/27.

30 credits

FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)

Module Outline

This module seeks to examine the origins of China’s rise and its diverse implications for the rest of the
world. Adopting a political economy approach, it involves an in-depth exploration of the nature of the
so-called “China model” and its material and ideational consequences for the international system.
Throughout the module, various analytical frameworks and debates concerning IR and IPE will be
critically examined, including mainstream IR theories, neoclassical economics, structural
institutionalism, as well as various schools of Marxist, dependency and world system theories. The
module examines the history of China’s development from the clash with the West in the mid-19th
century to the ‘new Cold War’ and rise of China’s influence in the non-Western world.

Module learning outcomes

Critically evaluate the historical trajectories and key turning points in the
development of the Chinese political economy from the mid-19th
century to the present, demonstrating nuanced understanding of
continuity and change.

Systematically relate empirical developments in Chinese political
economy to advanced theoretical frameworks and debates within
International Relations, International Political Economy, and
Development Studies, showing awareness of methodological and
epistemological implications.

Interrogate dominant narratives in IR and development by incorporating
the role of social forces, subaltern perspectives, and non-elite actors in
shaping China’s political and economic transformations.

Design and execute an original, theoretically informed and empirically
grounded research project on a selected theme in Chinese development
and geopolitics, demonstrating advanced skills in critical inquiry,
synthesis of literature, and methodological rigour.

Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.