Groups of students will use an analytical framework originally developed by the US Department of State to analyze a contemporary political situation in which there is a high probability for instability and conflict and provide policy recommendations. The course requires students to make use of the conceptual, analytical, and methodological skills that they have been exposed to throughout their undergraduate careers. Students will also draw on their knowledge of themes from IS 3850. By working with a framework already developed and used in a government setting, the course will provide an opportunity for professional development, facilitating students’ transition from the academic world to careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors both in the United States and abroad.

Students will work in teams, as is common in most professional contexts; however, a significant portion of the course assessment will be based on work done individually as well.

This is a required, upper-level research ‘capstone’ that requires students to carry out original research and analysis in a team setting