JSIS 539 – U.S. Foreign Policy & International Engagement
Tue/Thur 3:30-5:20p
5 credits
Philip Wall
U.S. foreign policy is the result of lengthy political debates, taking place on many levels within and without the U.S. Government, over what does or does not best serve the “national interest.” Often, the very definition of what constitutes the “national interest” is at the center of these debates. This course, taught by a former Senior Foreign Service Officer, takes a practitioner’s approach in introducing the apparatus of American foreign policy and in examining key foreign policy debates over the past 40 years that have shaped the policies of today. The focus will be on the people who have driven this process and the institutions that they have shaped and served. Through classroom discussions, briefings, and policy memos addressed to decision-makers, students will hone their skills in presenting coherent, persuasive policy arguments.
