9 classes matched your search criteria.

Fall 2024  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: Issues and Institutions (23078)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person
Enrollment Requirements:
Grad or Masters or Law
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/03/2024 - 12/11/2024
Mon 02:30PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 330
Enrollment Status:
Open (0 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course helps students develop a deep understanding of U.S. foreign policy issues and institutions, and the implications of U.S. global engagement. Through readings, class discussions, and guest lectures, we look at the institutions and processes involved in developing and managing US foreign policy, and use case studies to advance students' knowledge of bilateral and regional issues. We examine the workings of the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of Defense; how economic instruments like sanctions are used to advance policy; and how American citizens, lobbyists, and foreign governments influence policy. We incorporate discussions of current events into each class, with students developing skills in writing and presentation critical to foreign policy careers.
Class Description:
The class will be taught by Eric Schwartz, who was Assistant Secretary of State during the Obama administration and Senior Director and Special Assistant to the President during the Clinton Administration. In the class, we will examine how U.S. policy-makers define national interests and how they seek to pursue them globally. We will consider various (and often competing) perspectives on these issues -- among both practitioners and academics -- and how foreign policy perspectives have evolved over time. We will review and assess the actions of recent administrations on key bilateral and regional issues, including those involving U.S. relations with China, the U.S. and the NATO alliance as well as U.S.-European relations, U.S. relations with governments in Central and South America, and Africa, among others. We will consider functional issues, such as the U.S. posture on climate change and international human rights and humanitarianism. And we will examine key institutions in the foreign policy-making process, such as the Department of State and the National Security Council.
Who Should Take This Class?:
Students with interests in U.S. foreign policy; students who are planning careers in foreign policy or international affairs, and students whose work, including work i advocacy, will put them in contact with the U.S. government's foreign policy institutions.
Learning Objectives:

Students who successfully complete the course will gain a broad understanding of the policy challenges confronting U.S. foreign policy-makers, as well as an understanding of the options which are available to policy-makers and the costs and benefits of various courses of action. Students will also gain of the key foreign policy institutions and the roles that they play in the policy-making process.

Grading:
Policy memo 15%
Class participation: 25%
Take home (open book) mid-term exercise: 30%
Final exam: 30%
Exam Format:
Midterm is take home exercise (open book)..
Final exam will be closed book, but students will have essay questions at least 10 days in advance and we will have review sessions prior to exam..
Class Format:
Class will be limited to 15 students.
Lecture or guest lecture and Qs and As: about 25%
Student discussion, in whole class or in smaller groups: about 75%
Workload:
About 150 pages per week of reading, on average; and occasional videos.
One policy memo, take home midterm (open book),exercise and final essay exam (see above)..
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23078/1249
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/eschwart_PA5813_Fall2023.docx (Fall 2023)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
8 August 2023

Fall 2023  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: Issues and Institutions (23340)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person
Enrollment Requirements:
Grad or Masters or Law
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/05/2023 - 12/13/2023
Wed 01:00PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 120
Enrollment Status:
Open (9 of 15 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course helps students develop a deep understanding of U.S. foreign policy issues and institutions, and the implications of U.S. global engagement. Through readings, class discussions, and guest lectures, we look at the institutions and processes involved in developing and managing US foreign policy, and use case studies to advance students' knowledge of bilateral and regional issues. We examine the workings of the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of Defense; how economic instruments like sanctions are used to advance policy; and how American citizens, lobbyists, and foreign governments influence policy. We incorporate discussions of current events into each class, with students developing skills in writing and presentation critical to foreign policy careers.
Class Notes:
More information about this class is available here: http://classinfo.umn.edu/?eschwart+PA5813+Fall2023
Class Description:
The class will be taught by Eric Schwartz, who was Assistant Secretary of State during the Obama administration and Senior Director and Special Assistant to the President during the Clinton Administration. In the class, we will examine how U.S. policy-makers define national interests and how they seek to pursue them globally. We will consider various (and often competing) perspectives on these issues -- among both practitioners and academics -- and how foreign policy perspectives have evolved over time. We will review and assess the actions of recent administrations on key bilateral and regional issues, including those involving U.S. relations with China, the U.S. and the NATO alliance as well as U.S.-European relations, U.S. relations with governments in Central and South America, and Africa, among others. We will consider functional issues, such as the U.S. posture on climate change and international human rights and humanitarianism. And we will examine key institutions in the foreign policy-making process, such as the Department of State and the National Security Council.
Who Should Take This Class?:
Students with interests in U.S. foreign policy; students who are planning careers in foreign policy or international affairs, and students whose work, including work i advocacy, will put them in contact with the U.S. government's foreign policy institutions.
Learning Objectives:

Students who successfully complete the course will gain a broad understanding of the policy challenges confronting U.S. foreign policy-makers, as well as an understanding of the options which are available to policy-makers and the costs and benefits of various courses of action. Students will also gain of the key foreign policy institutions and the roles that they play in the policy-making process.

Grading:
Policy memo 15%
Class participation: 25%
Take home (open book) mid-term exercise: 30%
Final exam: 30%
Exam Format:
Midterm is take home exercise (open book)..
Final exam will be closed book, but students will have essay questions at least 10 days in advance and we will have review sessions prior to exam..
Class Format:
Class will be limited to 15 students.
Lecture or guest lecture and Qs and As: about 25%
Student discussion, in whole class or in smaller groups: about 75%
Workload:
About 150 pages per week of reading, on average; and occasional videos.
One policy memo, take home midterm (open book),exercise and final essay exam (see above)..
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23340/1239
Syllabus:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/eschwart_PA5813_Fall2023.docx
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
8 August 2023

Fall 2022  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: Issues and Institutions (23795)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person
Enrollment Requirements:
Graduate Student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/06/2022 - 12/14/2022
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 20
Enrollment Status:
Open (22 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Taught by the Humphrey School diplomat in residence, this course helps students develop a deep understanding of how US foreign policy institutions function, how that is being challenged, and the broader global implications of those changes. Through readings, class discussions, and guest lectures, we look at the institutions and processes involved in developing and managing US foreign policy, and use case studies to advance students' knowledge, including of how the Department of State works, and the expanding role of the Department of Defense, the National Security Council, and intelligence agencies. We examine how economic instruments like sanctions are used to advance policy; and how American citizens, lobbyists, and foreign governments influence policy. We incorporate discussions of current events into each class. Students develop writing and presentation skills critical to foreign policy careers.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2022
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23795/1229
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

Fall 2021  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: Issues and Institutions (25827)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Graduate Student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 30
Enrollment Status:
Open (12 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Taught by the Humphrey School diplomat in residence, this course helps students develop a deep understanding of how US foreign policy institutions function, how that is being challenged, and the broader global implications of those changes. Through readings, class discussions, and guest lectures, we look at the institutions and processes involved in developing and managing US foreign policy, and use case studies to advance students' knowledge, including of how the Department of State works, and the expanding role of the Department of Defense, the National Security Council, and intelligence agencies. We examine how economic instruments like sanctions are used to advance policy; and how American citizens, lobbyists, and foreign governments influence policy. We incorporate discussions of current events into each class. Students develop writing and presentation skills critical to foreign policy careers.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2021
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/25827/1219
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

Fall 2020  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: Issues and Institutions (20699)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
Completely Online
Class Attributes:
Online Course
Enrollment Requirements:
Graduate Student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/08/2020 - 12/16/2020
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
Off Campus
UMN REMOTE
Enrollment Status:
Open (17 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Taught by the Humphrey School diplomat in residence, this course helps students develop a deep understanding of how US foreign policy institutions function, how that is being challenged, and the broader global implications of those changes. Through readings, class discussions, and guest lectures, we look at the institutions and processes involved in developing and managing US foreign policy, and use case studies to advance students' knowledge, including of how the Department of State works, and the expanding role of the Department of Defense, the National Security Council, and intelligence agencies. We examine how economic instruments like sanctions are used to advance policy; and how American citizens, lobbyists, and foreign governments influence policy. We incorporate discussions of current events into each class. Students develop writing and presentation skills critical to foreign policy careers.
Class Notes:
PA 5813 will be offered REMOTELY. Class will meet synchronously-online during Fall 2020, Mondays/Wednesdays, 2:30 - 3:45. http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2020
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/20699/1209
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

Fall 2019  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: Issues and Institutions (23966)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/03/2019 - 12/11/2019
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 30
Enrollment Status:
Open (12 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Taught by the Humphrey School diplomat in residence, this course helps students develop a deep understanding of how US foreign policy institutions function, how that is being challenged, and the broader global implications of those changes. Through readings, class discussions, and guest lectures, we look at the institutions and processes involved in developing and managing US foreign policy, and use case studies to advance students' knowledge, including of how the Department of State works, and the expanding role of the Department of Defense, the National Security Council, and intelligence agencies. We examine how economic instruments like sanctions are used to advance policy; and how American citizens, lobbyists, and foreign governments influence policy. We incorporate discussions of current events into each class. Students develop writing and presentation skills critical to foreign policy careers.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2019
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23966/1199
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

Fall 2018  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: The Institutional Basis (24352)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/04/2018 - 12/12/2018
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 30
Enrollment Status:
Open (10 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
The institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy including their origins and culture. Structure and function of key foreign policy institutions. Academic and policy critiques of the evolving institutional realities, including the State Department decision-making process; how institutions relate to one another, the changing role of institutions such as the Department of Defense, intelligence agencies, and the Department of Homeland Security in foreign policy. Assessment of the role played by Congress, the media, and the public, including non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, as they seek to influence Executive Branch foreign policy institutions. Meetings virtually or in person with current or former Washington policy-makers who provide insights on real time issues and institutional realities.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2018
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/24352/1189
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

Fall 2017  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: The Institutional Basis (21340)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/05/2017 - 12/13/2017
Tue, Thu 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 20
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
The institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy including their origins and culture. Structure and function of key foreign policy institutions. Academic and policy critiques of the evolving institutional realities, including the State Department decision-making process; how institutions relate to one another, the changing role of institutions such as the Department of Defense, intelligence agencies, and the Department of Homeland Security in foreign policy. Assessment of the role played by Congress, the media, and the public, including non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, as they seek to influence Executive Branch foreign policy institutions. Meetings virtually or in person with current or former Washington policy-makers who provide insights on real time issues and institutional realities.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2017
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/21340/1179
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

Fall 2016  |  PA 5813 Section 001: US Foreign Policy: The Institutional Basis (34518)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option No Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/06/2016 - 12/14/2016
Tue, Thu 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 30
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
The institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy including their origins and culture. Structure and function of key foreign policy institutions. Academic and policy critiques of the evolving institutional realities, including the State Department decision-making process; how institutions relate to one another, the changing role of institutions such as the Department of Defense, intelligence agencies, and the Department of Homeland Security in foreign policy. Assessment of the role played by Congress, the media, and the public, including non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, as they seek to influence Executive Branch foreign policy institutions. Meetings virtually or in person with current or former Washington policy-makers who provide insights on real time issues and institutional realities.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mtcurtin+PA5813+Fall2016
Class Description:

This course will examine the institutions that shape, influence and manage U.S. foreign policy. Through a combination of readings, classroom lectures and discussions, and policy-making simulations, it will provide students with a foundation of knowledge about the institutions, their origins, and culture. During the semester, the instructor, a 25-year veteran of the Foreign Service, will guide students as they delve into the way key foreign policy institutions work. We will examine the changing role of the State Department and the Foreign Service, including its decision-making and planning processes; the role of foreign assistance and USAID in foreign policy; and the emergence of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) as a leader in trade and economic policy. Through readings and discussions we look at the role of the Department of Defense and examine the argument that there has been a growing "militarization" of foreign policy, as well as look at how intelligence agencies have been used by presidents in foreign policy and have themselves impacted policy. We will examine, with a close linkage to the 2016 presidential elections, how the National Security Council has grown from a coordinating body to a foreign policy leader, and examine academic and policy critiques of and recommendations for these institutions, with a particular eye to the transition preparations the newly elected president will put into place in November. The course will also look at the role played by Congress in making and carrying out foreign policy; and examine non-governmental forces that seek to influence policy, including the media, think tanks, non-governmental organizations and lobbying groups, and the public as they seek to influence foreign policy. Students will have the opportunity several times during the semester to meet virtually with Washington policy-makers who will join the class via Skype to provide their insights on real time iss and institutional realities. The impact of the 2016 election will be woven into the course, in particular with regard to the transition process.


The goal of the course is to develop in students interested in global careers an understanding of how the Washington foreign policy process works and an opportunity to think critically about those processes. Students will have the chance to engage in practical writing and negotiating exercises that will deepen their understanding of policy processes, including learning to think and write critically about the competing priorities and interests policy-makers must grapple with.
Grading:

Students will be graded on an A-F basis. Grading will be as follows:


10% Short Policy Memo (300-500 words) summarizing an assigned issue. Examples will be given and reviewed before the assignment..

15% Negotiation and Policy Memo Writing Exercise (3 class periods) Over three class periods, the class will write a consensus policy memo to the newly elected president on a complex major foreign policy issue on which there are differences among departments (eg., China). Students will write one paragraph as the contribution of their assigned bureau or department; negotiate with other students consensus language and assist in writing a consensus memo; and orally brief their bureau's recommendation.

45% Class Participation - Students will be expected to attend participate fully in class discussions, offering their own informed opinions, role playing, and making formal presentations as required. Students must complete the assigned reading and remain abreast of key foreign policy developments.

30% Final Paper--A final paper, 2,500-3,000 words, with research footnoted, will be due on December 15. Students must meet with professor by November 1 to discuss the topic of their paper, which must address either a policy or institutional foreign policy issue.

Class Format:
Lecture and discussion, based on assigned readings and current events. There will be practical writing exercises, and one simulation exercise with a negotiation, presentation, and writing component.
Workload:
In addition to writing exercises above, there is about 50-100 pages of reading per session, in addition to an expectation that students will keep up on events in U.S. foreign policy.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/34518/1169
Syllabus:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/mtcurtin_PA5813_Fall2016.pdf
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 August 2016

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