POL S 328 A: International Organizations

Winter 2026
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Meeting:
MW 11:30am - 12:50pm
SLN:
19516
Section Type:
Lecture
POL S MAJORS: COUNTS FOR FIELD C, INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS ** INTERNATIONAL SECURITY OPTION ELECTIVE COURSE ** HUMAN RIGHTS MINOR BROAD CONTEXT COURSE
Syllabus Description (from Canvas):

POL S 328 International Organizations

Winter 2026
M/W 11:30am-12:50pm
Smith Hall (SMI), Room 211

Full Syllabus (PDF)


Course Description

International organizations (IOs), such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the International Criminal Court, and the World Health Organization, have grown in prominence across a wide range of domains in world affairs. Though states are sovereign actors in the international system, they often choose to delegate some of their authority to these international institutions. Why do IOs exist in the first place? Why do states create and join IOs? Why does the design of IOs differ so dramatically? What are the ways in which IOs can influence interests and outcomes in the international and domestic arenas? Beyond these sorts of inter-governmental bodies, non-state actors – from private firms to activist networks – have sought to influence traditional institutions as well as form their own organizations. Together, these state and non-state actors and organizations are interacting in an increasingly diffuse and complex system of global governance.  

This course investigates the origins, design, operation, and consequences of IOs in world politics. It is recommended (but not required) that students have taken POL S 203 (Introduction to International Relations) or an equivalent before enrolling in this course. Students will develop both a theoretical and empirical understanding of IOs, as well as the global and local problems they are intended to address. Examples will be drawn from both historical and contemporary eras, and will cover issues including international security, political economy, human rights, health, and the environment.

By the end of this course, students will demonstrate the ability to:

  • Identify and explain the main cooperation problems and challenges that international organizations are intended to address.
  • Compare and contrast different international organizations, in particular their origins, structures, strategies of action, and effectiveness.
  • Apply theories of international organizations to historical and contemporary events.
  • Improve writing skills through course readings and written assignments.

 

Course Requirements
Midterm Exam (25%)
Written Assignment (25%)
Section Participation (20%)
Final Exam (30%)

Catalog Description:
Explores historical, theoretical, and empirical aspects of the United Nations, its specialized agencies, and other international organizations, both governmental and nongovernmental, and their implications for global and domestic governance. Course equivalent to: T LAW 215.
GE Requirements Met:
Social Sciences (SSc)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
January 8, 2026 - 1:34 pm