POLS& 203 - International Relations

Credits: 5
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 55
Lab Hours: 0
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: A study of basic concepts involved in the study of a world community, including the politics of war, peace, and international economic relations.

Prerequisite: ENGL 099 with a grade of C or higher OR placement into ENGL& 101.
Distribution Requirements:

Social Sciences Distribution Requirement

General Education Requirements:

Fulfills Engage General Education Requirement

Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Explain basic concepts and theories in international relations.
Explain the causes of war and peace.
Describe international economic relations.
SOCIAL SCIENCES: Apply concepts from the social sciences to analyze individual or social phenomena, processes, events, conflicts, or issues.

Course Contents

Talking about International Relations: Vocabulary and frames of reference.
The importance of historical context (examples in ancient Greece, Islamic middle east, China).
The emerging role of the state.
Theories of realism, idealism, behavioralism, etc. in understanding international relations.
The Cold War (North South Crisis) and Colonialism (East West Crisis).
Non-State Actors (MNCs, NGOs, IGOs).
Issues of Foreign Policy (HIgh and Low Politics).
Roots of International Conflict.
Working Alone or Working Together (United Nations, League of Nations).
International Law.
Environmental Issues.
Human Rights Issues.
Future of International Relations.

Instructional Units: 5