International Security Studies 3620-ISS-SP-OG

International Security Studies addresses the causes of war and the sources of lasting peace in international politics, focusing on applying instruments of power to accomplish national objectives. This multidisciplinary course challenges students to confront the essential “Clausewitzian” problem; to best integrate all the instruments of national power, including military force, to achieve political objectives. The course analyzes the dynamics of great power challenges and uses informed strategic analysis integrating diplomatic, political, legal, economic, and military judgment to best exercise power.
The first three blocks introduces students to the basic concepts, theories, perspectives, paradigms, and analytical tools of international relations. The fourth and fifth blocks addresses the instruments, or ways and means, used in pursuit of international security objectives in the complex global environment. The final block asks students to apply these tools and concepts to understand and analyze strategy and security in the contemporary environment. Finally, the course requires students to combine the theory, instruments, and strategies in a final project that demonstrates their ability to analyze and respond to international security threats.

Block I: Introduction to the Contemporary Security Environment
Block 2: Theories of International Relations
Block 3: Levels of Analysis
Block 4: Instruments, Ways and Means of Global Security
Block 5: National Decision Making and the Cuban Missile Crisis
Block 6: Integrating for International Security Challenges Today