In this course, you will learn the fundamental geographic, demographic, economic, ideological and other factors conditioning the policies of nations and discusses conflicts and their outcomes.  It is an introduction to the complexities of the international system and international policies. It is intended that students evaluate foreign policies of major actors in the world community with an emphasis on the United States’ role in contemporary world affairs.. 

There are no formal prerequisites for this course, please consider:

• Students should possess college-level reading and writing skills
• Students should have good technology and web-use skills to take a web-based course.  See Is Distance Learning for Me? to determine if you are prepared to take a web-based course

NOTE: This course requires completing assignments on a fixed weekly schedule with possible midweek deadlines.

If you complete this course and do well, you will be able to: Understand the specific vocabulary and key terms used in the international political and legal context.

• Comprehend the broad patterns of political forces that impact decision-making.
• Demonstrate an ability to analyze complex subjects and issues using the framework of the international system.
• To appreciate the importance of international political affairs in their implications for a citizen of a democratic nation.
• The student should fully recognize and understand the concepts of national interest, sovereignty, systems, power, weapons and war, diplomacy and intelligence.

Your course grade will be determined by your grades on your assignments, exams, and research paper and by your participation in the Discussion Forum assignments.   Your final grade will be based on the following scale:

Students must pass the Final Exam with a grade of “C” or better in order to pass the course.

There are 2 exams in this course.

I am here to help you succeed in this course. Occasionally questions or problems may arise. Here is how to contact me when they do:

Email: jmckee@nvcc.edu
Telephone : (703) 759-2322

You may also call me to schedule a meeting in person, either at ELI or my campus office in Loudoun