6500 - The Global Context

The purpose of this course is to help students understand the world and emerging strategic challenges from a perspective that is not U.S.-centric. Students study selected nation-states and international regions, developing a familiarity with the role played by culture and history, as well as the key emerging trends in that region. They analyze international trends and developments, compare and contrast regional contexts and national perspectives, and recommend how best to prioritize U.S. interests within and across regions. The course also examines how non-state actors, transnational actors and global trends shape the strategic environment. Students will develop a working knowledge of the international security context that is essential for creating, analyzing and carrying out national security strategy and policy.