Geopolitics and Energy Security Course

Undergraduate Course (Bachelor’s Level)

This course introduces undergraduate students to the fundamentals of energy geopolitics and the strategic role energy plays in shaping global politics. It explores historical and contemporary case studies, highlighting how energy access, infrastructure, and transitions influence state behaviour and global security.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand key concepts and actors in energy geopolitics.
• Identify and assess major trends in energy supply, demand, and transportation.
• Develop descriptive and map-based analyses of regional energy systems.

Assessment

Class Participation (25%), Case Study Report (25%), Final Essay (50%)

Structure

1. Introduction to Geopolitics and Energy Security
2. Theories of Energy and Geopolitical Power
3. Oil, Gas and Global Power
4. Infrastructure and Maritime Chokepoints
5. Energy and Conflict
6. The Global South and Energy Security
7. Major Powers and Energy Strategy
8. Renewable Energy and Transition Politics
9. Climate Change and Security Dimensions
10. Africa’s Energy Geopolitics
11. Future Trends in Energy Security

Graduate Course (Master’s Level)

This graduate-level course critically examines the geopolitical implications of energy systems and transitions. It draws on advanced theoretical approaches and recent scholarship to analyse power structures, regional dynamics, and normative debates in global energy governance.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically engage with theoretical frameworks in energy geopolitics.
• Evaluate strategic and normative debates surrounding energy transitions.
• Develop independent research drawing on primary sources and policy documents.

Assessment

Class Participation (25%), Case Study Report (25%), Final Essay (50%)

Structure

1. Framing Security and Power in Energy Geopolitics
2. Theoretical Frameworks
3. Hydrocarbons and Strategic Leverage
4. Infrastructure as Power
5. Conflict and Resource Competition
6. Energy Justice and Global Inequality
7. Strategic Doctrines of Major Powers
8. The Green Transition and Geopolitical Change
9. Climate Diplomacy and Energy Risk Governance
10. Africa in a Multipolar Energy Order
11. Energy Futures