International Relations

POLI 110: Introduction to World Politics

Topics include: an examination of the actors in the international political system, levels of analysis, realist and idealist approaches to international relations, the nature of power, the causes of war and theories of conflict resolution. This is one of the four "core courses" in the NJCU Political Science curriculum.

POLI 207: The United Nations and World Affairs

The role of the United Nations, regional, and international organizations in the contemporary world are the focus of this course. The history and usefulness of these organizations in the settlement of international conflicts and the functions of international law are also examined in light of the human quest for peace, justice and stability.

POLI 307: International Law

This is an overview of the development of international law, the institutions involved, and landmark cases. It examines the role of the United Nations and the extent to which international law helps to guide and constrain behavior among the nations of the world. Pre-requisite: POLI 110

POLI 324: International Relations in the Middle East

Topics include: the Arab/Israeli conflict, Iran/Iraq and the Persian Gulf, U.S. policy toward the region. Pre-requisite: POLI 110

POLI 326: International Relations in Central Asia

Topics include: the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the politics of oil, and the future of this critical area for the United States. Pre-requisite: POLI 110

POLI 334: Issues of War and Peace

This is an interdisciplinary and theoretical study of possible approaches to permanent peace and an examination of the causes of war. Case studies are undertaken wherever appropriate. Pre-requisite: POLI 110

POLI 550: United Nations Workshop

This course centers on preparation for and participation in the National Model United Nations simulation. Students are assigned a country or NGO at the start of the semester and conduct collaborative research on the issues and background material for that year's conference.

Note: Registration is limited to 10 upper level political science majors or special permission of the Chair.