Document Type

Undergraduate Syllabus

Date

Spring 2020

School

Diplomacy

Course Number

DIPL 4601

Course Description

No relationship will be as important to the twenty-first century as the one between the United States and China. This course will unpack, update and explain the complexities of interactions between the two countries. It will be both historical and contemporary. Its thematic thrust will be more practical and policy-oriented than theoretical. Readings, lectures, and discussions will focus on the historical evolution of the relationship and major functional arenas of interaction between the two nations.

There are no formal prerequisites for this course other than a strong interest in China and U.S. diplomacy, and a willingness to do the assigned readings. Students with background in China studies, U.S. foreign policy, and international relations will be well served.

This course has the following objectives: 1) To provide the historical and domestic context as well as the factual basis for understanding U.S.-China relations; 2) To explore the specific policy issues that create conflict, or foster cooperation, between the two nations; and 3) To provide the students the opportunity to write concise, policy-oriented analyses. By the end of the semester, students should have been familiar with key issues and debates involved in the study of U.S.- China relations. They should also have developed the essential skills to conduct critical analysis of the U.S.-China relations and to effectively communicate that analysis to the policy and academic community.

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