Khon Kaen University - SDG Alignment for Master of Political Science Program in Politics and International Relations

SDG Alignment for Master of Political Science Program in Politics and International Relations

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Master of Political Science Program in Politics and International Relations is holistically designed to produce graduates with advanced knowledge to analyze complex political phenomena and international relations. The program's core philosophy, which emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches to understanding political dynamics, makes it a powerful contributor to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). Through a deep focus on public policy, human rights, and governance, the curriculum directly addresses the need for effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions. By examining issues of gender, development, and social movements, the program strongly supports SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Its focus on regional cooperation and global issues also aligns with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). As a graduate-level program, it is a flagship for SDG 4 (Quality Education).

SDG Related Course(s)

SDG 4: Quality Education

▶

Alignment Summary: As a master's program, this curriculum represents a high level of quality education. It is designed to cultivate expert analysts and researchers by providing advanced training in research methodologies and fostering the lifelong learning skills necessary to address complex political and social challenges.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486701	Advanced Research Methodology	Provides the core research skills that define high-quality graduate education, equipping students for high-level employment in research and policy analysis (Target 4.3 and 4.4).
IS48689X	Thesis/Independent Study	These courses are capstone lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3), where students conduct original research or in-depth study, thereby acquiring superior technical and professional skills for employment and innovation (Target 4.4).

SDG 5: Gender Equality

▶

Alignment Summary: The curriculum promotes gender equality by providing a deep understanding of the political and social dynamics of gender. This knowledge is crucial for developing and advocating for policies that eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and girls and ensure their full and effective participation in public life.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486705	Politics of Gender and Social Development	Directly supports gender equality by providing the framework to analyze and combat discrimination, aligning with Target 5.1 to end all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

▶

Alignment Summary: The program contributes to sustainable economic growth by training leaders who can formulate effective public policies. By understanding political economy and development, graduates can contribute to policies that foster inclusive and sustainable economic development.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486704	Political Economy and Development	Contributes to achieving higher levels of economic productivity (Target 8.2) by analyzing the interplay between political systems and economic development.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

▶

Alignment Summary: The program addresses inequality by training professionals to analyze the root causes of social and political exclusion. The curriculum provides the tools to understand how political systems and social movements can address disparities and promote inclusion for all groups.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486705	Politics of Gender and Social Development	Directly aligns with Target 10.2 by promoting the social and political inclusion of all, irrespective of gender.
IS486708	Social Movements	Contributes to reducing inequalities by studying the mechanisms through which marginalized groups can advocate for their rights and promote social change (Target 10.2).

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

▶

Alignment Summary: This program contributes to creating sustainable communities by focusing on local governance and development. Graduates are equipped to contribute to participatory and integrated policies for sustainable community development.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486706	Local Politics and Governance	Directly supports Target 11.3 by providing skills for inclusive and sustainable human settlement planning and management through an understanding of local governance.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

▶

Alignment Summary: This program is instrumental in building strong institutions. The entire curriculum is designed to strengthen governance by providing advanced education in political theory, public policy, and human rights. Graduates are equipped to ensure equal access to justice and to build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486702	Political Theories and Ideologies	Provides the foundational knowledge for building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.6).
IS486703	Public Policy and Governance	Directly supports the development of effective, accountable and transparent institutions by teaching the principles of sound policy-making and governance (Target 16.6).
IS486707	Human Rights in International Relations	Contributes to promoting the rule of law and ensuring equal access to justice by focusing on international human rights standards (Target 16.3).

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

▶

Alignment Summary: The program's focus on international relations and regional cooperation inherently fosters partnerships for sustainable development. Through seminars and research, students engage with the global political and academic communities, promoting the knowledge-sharing and collaborations needed to achieve global goals for peace and development.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS486707	Human Rights in International Relations	This course is foundational to SDG 17, promoting an understanding of the international frameworks that govern global cooperation on human rights (Target 17.16).
IS486709	Regional Cooperation in Southeast Asia	Enhances multi-stakeholder partnerships by examining models of regional governance and collaboration (Target 17.17).