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Course Descriptions

Actors, Institutions, and Legal Frameworks in International Affairs
This course introduces students to the various levels of international interaction and exchange (supranational, state-to-state, state-to-private, private-to-private); the sources and limitations of law and regulation at each level; and the variety of actors and institutions characteristic of each level. The course explores the roles, authority, and limitations of the institutions and actors at each level and the implications of these for domestic and transnational governance, development, human rights, commerce, migration, and civil society.   (INTAF 801, 3 credits)

Foundations of Diplomacy and International Relations Theory
This course surveys major theoretical paradigms and arguments concerning international relations. Substantive areas include international conflict, international law, international organization, and international political economy. Theories and paradigms considered may include: realism vs. idealism; balance of power; democratic peace; clash of civilizations; liberalism vs. neocolonialism; political causes and consequences of economic globalization (trade, foreign direct investment, and financial flows); rational design of international institutions; domestic vs. international determinants of foreign economic, diplomatic, and security policies; and the role of formal institutions and law.  (INTAF 802, 3 credits)

Multi-Sector and Quantitative Analysis
This course introduces students to the methods, importance, and limitations of statistical, quantitative, and economic analysis within and across various sectors of communities and societies as practiced in such areas as business, law, education, health, environmental, and science policy.  (INTAF 803, 3 credits)

Global Cultures and Leadership
This course introduces students to cultural theories (from global to personal cultural identity issues) and discusses how sociocultural beliefs may impede or accelerate social change. The course aims to link these theories with programs, policies, or practices for social change, such as the United Nations Millennium Development Goals initiative, and explores how global issues can be addressed through accessible and affordable education, health care, and technology.  (INTAF 804, 3 credits)

International Economics: Principles, Policies, and Practices
This course addresses the principles, policies, and practices in international trade and finance that are fundamental for understanding international economic relations and the future of global economy. The course examines the economic principles underlying behaviors and policies in international and domestic public affairs and explains how to evaluate and conduct economic analyses.  (INTAF 805, 3 credits)

Colloquium on Current Policy Challenges
Colloquium topics vary depending upon the current issues of the day. The course surveys some major transnational social problems confronting the world, suggested by the Copenhagen Consensus, such as: climate change; communicable diseases; conflict and arms proliferation; access to education; financial instability; governance and corruption; malnutrition and hunger; migration; sanitation and access to clean water; and subsidies and trade barriers. The course involves team teaching and guest lecturers. The course lectures are open to the public and made available via webcast. (INTAF 590, 3 credits)