Course List 1

International Studies

The following courses are offered through the International Studies program:

59-205/206/207 Contemporary International Studies

Introductory Course, which should be taken as early as possible in your academic career, freshman or sophomore year.

Teaches you the basics of international issues, as well as an introduction to several regions of the world.

The class also makes use of several guest lecturers from many fields and academic departments, thus presenting the student with an invaluable opportunity to meet professors from the many departments teaching courses that give credit in International Stduies.

The different class numbers (205, 206, 207) mean that the student may take this course and receive credit in the major up to 3 times. When taking the course for the first time, please register for 59-205. Upon demand, additional seats can be made available into 59-205, by transfering seats from 59-206 and 59-207.

Every year, the course focuses on a different topic of international concern. It is for that reason that students can take the course up to three times, so that they may learn up to date issues in international affairs. Topics in the past have included:

  • International Terrorism
  • Population and Development
  • Regional Conflicts
  • Nuclear Balance
  • Globalization
  • Superpower Balance
59-227/228 Diplomatic Practice

Study of and practical experience in the techniques of international and global diplomacy, utilizing role playing to provide direct experience. The course focuses on the methods by which international diplomacy is conducted, with particular emphasis on multilateral settings in international organizations.

Prerequisite: International Studies 205 and either Geography 102 or Political Science 115 or consent of instructor. Students are allowed to repeat twice and count the course toward the major and toward graduation up to three times. (Fall)

This course may be taken for Honors credits, as Int. Studies 228

59-250 Special Topics

Special Topics in International Studies.

59-308/309/508 Revolution and Development

Analysis of socio-cultural diversity, economic underdevelopment, and political instability as problems in nation building. Formulation of strategies to promote national integration and development. Case studies and role playing. Available on an honors contract basis to give credit in the University Honors Program.

Prerequisite: International Studies 205 and two courses from Economics 206, 207, and Political Science 115, and at least 9 units (crs.) of upper division (300 or 400 level) courses from International Studies Course List 2, or consent of instructor. 308/508 (Fall)

59-312 Understanding Japan

An introduction to Japanese culture (emphasizing basic attitudes and values of the Japanese people) and to the problems, which arise due to the different cultural backgrounds of citizens of the United States and Japan. Particular emphasis will be placed upon personal interaction in a business setting and business practices.

59-315 Perspectives on the Nuclear Age

An introduction to the scientific and historical data and current political and moral dilemmas concerning nuclear weapons and nuclear war. The interdisciplinary nature of this course will allow students to critically examine a wide variety of perspectives and will help students carefully evaluate nuclear weapons issues and policy in the future.

59-321 Central American Culture (LA)

Contemporary Central American culture with emphasis on political, social, economic, and religious development, popular and personal attitudes, methods of business, leisure activities, and the arts. Regional and individual country approach.

59-332/333 Study Tour (Abroad)

Study tours, including travel to various regions of the globe, directed and led by faculty members of the International Studies Program, to provide students with direct contact with other cultures and societies. Includes background readings, field lectures, and reporting by the student as specified by the instructor in each case. Information on specific trips, fees, transportation, and trip expenses will be announced each time the course is scheduled.

59-341/541 Multinational Corporations in the International System (AF)

A study of the role of multinational corporations in the modern world economy, their operating methods, and the effect of these corporations on home and host countries. Particular emphasis will be placed on the role of such companies in the development process in the Third World, employing case studies and role playing to provide practical experiences.

Prerequisite: Two courses from International Studies 205, Economics 206, 207 and Political Science 115, or permission of instructor. (Spring)

59-351 Special Topics

Selected topics in International Studies.

59-364 International Negotiation

A study of the techniques and procedures of international negotiation, stressing the methods utilized by professional diplomats and international civil servants to seek agreements regarding disputes between nations. Case studies will be employed to illustrate bilateral and multilateral negotiations within the scope of diplomatic practice and procedures.

Prerequisite: International Studies 205 and consent of instructor. (This will require several other courses giving credit in International Studies and successful participation in simulation exercises.) Students are allowed to repeat the course up to five times, counting the credits both toward the major and toward graduation.

59-396 Internship in International Studies

An individually arranged internship that enables students to gain practical experience working with government agencies, private groups, organizations, or businesses involved in international affairs or transactions. These experiences are intended for advanced students with extensive course work relating to International Studies. Students will prepare papers based on their experiences as well as being evaluated by their supervisors at the appropriate agency. Consult the coordinator for further information.

Prerequisite: International Studies 205 and at least 12 units (crs.) of upper division (300 or 400 level) courses from International Studies Course List 2 or permission of Coordinator of International Studies.

59-402/403 Senior Seminar in International Studies

A capstone International Studies senior seminar intended to be taken as the final step in completion of the major or minor, using the study of selected topics from the field of International Studies. Students are expected to utilize their knowledge of the several disciplines that comprise the International Studies major, based on the previous courses they have completed within these disciplines.

Prerequisite: International Studies 205 and 12 credits of upper division (300 or 400 level) courses from International Studies Course List 2, including courses from at least two disciplines from that list, or permission of the Coordinator of International Studies. (Spring)

This course may be taken for Honors credits, as Int. Studies 403.

59-420 Seminar in Latin American Studies (LA)

Seminar on Latin America, drawing upon the various disciplines of the social sciences, and stressing the role of each field in developing a total picture of Latin America.

Prerequisite: Nine hours of Latin American Studies courses or consent of the instructor. (Spring)

59-446 Independent Study

The purpose of Independent Study is to allow a student to explore in-depth topics of scholarly interest which are not attainable through University course work. Independent Study offerings are not to be used as a substitution for General Education requirements.

Please consult your International Studies advisor, or the Program Coordinator for details about the course and on how to develop an independent study curriculum that meets your academic goals.

General prerequisites: Junior standing (60 credits) or above, preparation in the academic area, and grade point average of 3.0 or above. Students may count no more than 12 credits in IS/RR combined toward the 128 required for graduation.

59-456 Related Readings

Related Readings permits the student to pursue research usually well beyond that required in established courses. Before beginning the course, the student must present a bibliography of readings that he/she and the instructor have agreed upon and which are to be reviewed and discussed. The outcome is a research paper critique by the instructor.

Please consult your International Studies advisor, or the Program Coordinator for details about the course and on how to develop a related readings curriculum that meets your academic goals.

General prerequisites: Junior standing (60 credits) or above, preparation in the academic area, and grade point average of 3.0 or above. Students may count no more than 12 credits in IS/RR combined toward the 128 required for graduation.

59-474 Honor Thesis

Honors thesis projects include any advanced independent endeavor in the student’s major field of study, e.g., a written thesis, scientific experiment or research project, or creative arts exhibit or production. Proposals (attached to Independent Study contract) must show clear promise of honors level work and be approved by a faculty sponsor. Course title for transcript will be ‘Honors Thesis.’ Completed projects will be announced and presented to interested students and faculty.

Prerequisite: University Honors status and junior standing. Maximum of 6 units (crs.).