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Course Offerings
Students choose one of the following course options.
Worlds Apart, Worlds Together: Conflict, Culture, and Cooperation
Difference, particularly cultural difference, is the source of many conflicts in international relations. This course will explore conceptual components and theories of conflict, culture, and conflict resolution—with a special focus on the role that culture plays in both starting and resolving conflicts. An in-depth examination of contemporary international conflicts will be used as illustrative case-studies. The class will then bridge the gap between interpersonal, group, and international conflicts by exploring strategies of conflict resolution and cross-cultural understanding.
Diplomacy and Dictators: US Foreign Policy in an Uncertain World
How does the U.S. government confront dictators, maintain allies, and protect the nation from international threats to national security? This course will introduce the major departments, agencies, and actors within the government involved in foreign policy and national security. It will explore how they operate in the new strategic environment by considering major threats and issues facing the United States today, from terrorists to rogue states to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The course will also address the conflicting goals, agendas, and trade-offs present in any foreign and national security policy. Debating the range of policy options, students will explore how the U.S. might best act to enhance U.S. national security and international position.
Tuition & Fees
Financial aid is not available for this program with the exception of limited aid for designated local Washington, DC, public schools. Students are encouraged to seek out and apply independently for private scholarships that may be awarded by local organizations such as businesses, churches, and civic groups.
Three-week Hybrid Program: $3,400 (Tuition now $2,800 due to shift online for 2021)
Includes:
- 3 credits of college tuition
- Transportation to off-site briefings at government agencies and other sites
- Afternoon workshops on resume-writing and international careers
- All classroom materials
- Lunch
- Access to AU's library, fitness center, pool
Room and Board: N/A for Summer 2021
Includes:
- Dormitory housing in doubles or triples in a centrally-located AU dormitory
- All meals
- Evening and weekend activities: barbecues, international film viewings, museum and shopping trips, Kennedy Center performance, and evening monument tour
- Air-conditioning and Internet connections
- Round-the-clock dormitory staffing with controlled building access
- Linens provided