The expansion of international, regional and domestic trade can be a key catalyst for development. In this course, we will examine the theory and evidence on the impact of trade on developing economies as well as the current debates in the area. Following a review of international trade and development theory basics, we will review empirical evidence on the link between international trade and growth, the impact of trade on wages, gender and the environment.

This graduate course surveys the political, economic, and social aspects of countries located in regions of the world collectively known as the Global South, or the "developing" world, which represents approximately two-thirds of humanity. This course is concerned with factors that have historically affected (and continue to affect) the domestic and external affairs of these countries.

Why do international organizations exist? What explains their growing influence over time in a state-based world order? In this graduate seminar, we will explore the theories, frameworks, institutions, and processes that "govern" global affairs in the contemporary period. We will examine various organizations (both IGOs and NGOs) and international initiatives, the roles they play regionally and globally, and the challenges they face as they seek to achieve their goals.

What kinds of factors generally influence the foreign policy decision making (FPDM) process? How are the foreign policy behaviors of large powers distinguishable from those of small states? Through a comparative perspective that focuses primarily on the post-cold war period, we will examine important factors that appear to explain the foreign policy process (important inputs and outputs) in countries like China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, Turkey, and the United States.