Want to study abroad? Want to be a good global citizen and learn to think about how to solve big global problems like climate change, nuclear arms races, human rights violations, and extreme global poverty? Want to learn about how the media shapes society and how it can work to solve problems? This FIG brings together the study of international relations with the study of the media and its role in society. In this FIG class we especially explore how media, especially social media, affects international relations in profound and rapidly changing ways. Students work in groups using social media, or other communication techniques, to help solve international problems. We will eat international food, begin to develop informed outlooks as citizens of the world, and explore together how to study abroad and be informed and active global citizens.
Students explore the intersection of topics by taking the following course package:
UGST 109 First-Year Experience Seminar - 1-credit
PS 205 Introduction to International Relations - CoreEd or major satisfying course, 4-credits
An introduction to the analysis of international politics: anarchy, war, terrorism, pollution, free trade, human rights, prosperity, and starvation. Are wars an inescapable feature of international relations, or can states learn to resolve conflicts short of war? Topics include nuclear proliferation, international economics, and global interdependence.
J 201 Media and Society - CoreEd or major satisfying course, 4-credits
Introduces the history, nature, and issues of the various media of mass communication and their effects on society. Why did media systems evolve as they did? Who determines the nature of media messages? Provides an overview of professional fields, including print and electronic news, magazine journalism, advertising, and public relations.