Course Description:
This course provides an intensive examination of information engagement and the use of strategic communication in public diplomacy and statecraft.  The course covers issues such as the conduct of public or virtual diplomacy; international military information; international broadcasting; the Internet; global television; propaganda; psychological operations; the media; information in the global War on Terror; and perception management, all as means to influence decision makers, population groups, and critical audiences.  Several recent real-world situations will provide case studies for analysis.  The course concludes by exploring how shaping the information environment and effectively employing the information component of power impacts the national security process.

Recommended Attendance:
This course is appropriate for strategic leaders, military planners, and personnel desiring to explore and analyze strategic issues involving information and national security. 

Prerequisites
None.

Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to analyze how strategic communication can shape and influence strategic and political events, and how global perceptions can be shaped and influenced by using the new information technologies; synthesize strategies for effectively employing strategic communication to influence critical audiences; and apply these strategies to achieve national security objectives.