INR - International Relations

This course examines a variety of ethical issues in today's global world and the church's role in addressing them in order to prepare students for faithful and effective global engagement. Specific topics include but are not limited to war, poverty, nationalism, climate change, human rights and religious pluralism. The course also explores the biblical theology of the church's mission, past and present models of Christian public engagement, and the biblical ethics and practice of multifaith engagement. The course is required for the International Relations major and minor.

This course examines a variety of issues regarding international peace and security from diverse theoretical and normative perspectives. Major concepts in security studies, such as security dilemma, polarity, war, coercion, are discussed before various security actors, institutions, and issues of historical and contemporary significance are addressed. The course also explores the possibilities and strategies of preventing conflict and building peace. Prerequisite: POL-230.

This course examines a variety of individual-, domestic-, and international-level factors that affect a country's foreign policy making process in a rapidly globalizing world. While critically surveying major theories of and issues in foreign policy analysis, students will also engage in a series of case studies that will help them better understand the complex dynamics surrounding a foreign policy decision making process in a particular context. Prerequisites: POL-230 and POL-232.

This course is an advanced survey of the actors, norms, institutions, and processes of global policy making in various issue areas, including security, economy, human rights, and environment. Through course readings, class discussions, and individual research projects, students will be introduced to key concepts and theories regarding global governance and gain substantive knowledge about its current workings and future prospects. Prerequisites: POL-230 and POL-232.

This is an advanced seminar in the methodological study of political phenomenon. Students will enhance their research, analysis and critical thinking skills through practical experience in the process of scholarship. As a capstone experience students will plan, research and write a scholarly research piece addressing an empirical puzzle relevant to their interests. The course is highly recommended for students pursuing graduate education. Prerequisite: Upper-division Status.