Document Type

Undergraduate Syllabus

Date

Fall 2026

School

Diplomacy

Course Number

DIPL 4601

Course Description

The relationship between the United States and China is among the most important bilateral relationships of the twenty-first century. This course will unpack 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 its major functional arenas of interaction.

The course has three objectives: 1) to provide historical and domestic context, coupled with a factual foundation, for understanding U.S.-China relations; 2) to explore specific policy issues that either create conflict or foster cooperation between the two nations; and 3) to offer students the opportunity to write concise, policy-oriented analyses. By the end of the semester, students should be familiar with the key issues and debates central to the study of U.S.-China relations. They should also have developed the essential skills for analyzing the relationship critically and conveying that analysis effectively to both policy and academic communities.

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