POLS& 203 - International Relations

Credits: 5
Introduces students to major theoretical approaches in the field of international relations. Explores nations and nationalism, the nature of the interstate system, and power. Includes topics such as diplomacy, trade, economic sanctions, increasing technological and economic globalization, international law, international political economy, labor, the environment, and war.

Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL& 101 or instructor’s permission.

Satisfies Requirement: Social Science

Course Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this class will be able to:

Identify and understand the principal theoretical approaches in the field of International Relations.
Outline the major rivalries between states in the twentieth century and at other times in history.
Explain the role and power of intergovernmental organizations and international law.
Understand the nature and significance of economic globalization in international relations.
Understand the changing natures and contexts of military conflict, power, and national security.
Understand central contemporary issues in international relations including: terrorism, environmental challenges, and human security.

Program Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of politics and government in the United States and/or across the world.

College-wide Outcomes

Critical Thinking - Critical thinking finds expression in all disciplines and everyday life. It is characterized by an ability to reflect upon thinking patterns, including the role of emotions on thoughts, and to rigorously assess the quality of thought through its work products. Critical thinkers routinely evaluate thinking processes and alter them, as necessary, to facilitate an improvement in their thinking and potentially foster certain dispositions or intellectual traits over time.
Responsibility - Responsibility encompasses those behaviors and dispositions necessary for students to be effective members of a community. This outcome is designed to help students recognize the value of a commitment to those responsibilities which will enable them to work successfully individually and with others.
Written Communication - Written Communication encompasses all the abilities necessary for effective expression of thoughts, feelings, and ideas in written form.