Program overview: The program will examine political, legal, economic, and security instances of international cooperation and will introduce students to key concepts and theories of international cooperation. By visiting NATO, the European Union institutions (the European Parliament, the Council, the European Commission), the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court and the International Tribunal for Former Yugoslavia, students will learn about various instances of cooperation across social, economic, science and technology, political, and military issues. The research trip to Brussels and The Hague will provide the students with unique opportunities to conduct independent field research, interview officials at various international institutions, participate in various forums and discussions, and collect primary data on a topic of their interest related to international cooperation. Upon their return, students are required to complete a research project. POL 2087 and 6080 are open to students majoring Political Science and/ or International Affairs, as well as other majors who are interested on the topics of international institutions and cooperation, international law and justice, EU politics and transatlantic relations. Please, note that POL 2087 fulfills social science general education requirement, while 6080 can fulfill the capstone requirement. If interested to complete the capstone (with or without high honors requirement, students should discuss these options with the instructor).
Program Costs: please check the study abroad brochure for details. Program fees include lodging and local transportation (bus, metro, tram) in Brussels and The Hague, visits to SHAPE in Mons and Université Catholique de Louvain in Ottignies, city tours and some meals. Airfare can be purchased individually or as a group if there are at least 10 people interested.
Students pay most meals and other expenses.
Selected Policies and Caveats (please review syllabus for details):
First, this is a study abroad course and participants are expected to attend the study abroad component in Brussels and The Hague (May 4-14, 2015). If you are unable to attend the study abroad component, then you cannot enroll in the class. The class will meet several times during the Spring Semester prior to departure to Europe to discuss various topic and the logistics of the study abroad program. Students are expected to attend these meetings; they are also required to attend a mandatory pre-departure session. These sessions are designed to make sure you are prepared for your experience abroad. This is the link to sign up for pre-departure orientation.
Second, students are also required to attend all scheduled events while in Brussels and in The Hague. If you are unable to attend any of these events for medical or other reasons, please notify the instructor as soon as you can to see what arrangements can be made.
Third, if you have any medical condition or disability that affects your performance in class or limits your participation in the study abroad in Brussels and The Hague, please notify the instructor in January 2015 in order to find an accommodation that meets best student’s interests. Also, for advice and assistance you may contact the university’s disability services office, located in 210 University Pavilion, Phone 513-556-6823, Email: disabisv@ucmail.uc.edu.
Fourth, for detailed information about the cost of the trip see the attached brochure. Please, note that student accommodation is mandatory (this means that you cannot arrange for any alternative accommodation in Brussels or The Hague without instructor’s approval). You are expected to show up for group events ON TIME at the agreed upon location (in front of the building on Général Leman or at the Stayokay Hostel). Make sure to notify me if cannot make it.
Fifth, regarding air transportation, you can purchase either a group or an individual airline ticket. I understand that purchasing an individual ticket may be cheaper; they also offer some flexibility. However, please note that you are required to arrive in Brussels on May 4th before 5 pm and depart from The Hague on May 14th any time in the morning. If you choose to arrive before May 4th or stay after May 14th, you will be responsible for all arrangements (accommodation, expenses, etc). I will be available to meet all students arriving in Brussels on May 4th. If you choose to fly into another airport (e.g. Charleroi, Paris De Gaulle, or Amsterdam) make sure you know how to get to Brussels. If you are not sure, please discuss this matter with me before booking your flights. I will be available to provide assistance with flight reservations if necessary. You can book your return flight from Brussels National Airport (BRU) or from Amsterdam (AMS). Feel free to browse kayak or momondo for airfare deals, but note some of the lowest airfares may not be available for purchase. University of Cincinnati works with approved vendors that include: STA travel, Travelocity, and others.
Sixth, to defray the cost of the study abroad program, students are encouraged to seek different sources of funding. UC international will some provide financial support. Additionally, POL, INTA and other Taft Department students are eligible to apply for the Taft Undergraduate Enrichment Award (currently up to $2,000). The award is intended to assist students with research projects that will enhance their learning experience in their major field. Please, note that the due date for Taft applications in January 2015. Further information is available on the Taft website.
Seventh, since large part of the coursework is due upon return from the study abroad trip; in the meantime students will be assigned "In Progress" grades prior to the completion of all course requirements. Those who plan to graduate in Spring 2015 should notify the instructor; we will be make necessary accommodations that will NOT delay their planned graduation.
Eight, students enrolled in 2087 and 6080 will be required to complete a group outreach project. A group of 5-7 students will work together on a 10 min visual presentation (power point, video or similar format) that highlights three main aspects of the course: (1) the content of the program; (2) how this study abroad has enriched their academic and/ or scholarly knowledge in international cooperation and; (3) why and how the program is valuable to the UC community in increasing their awareness and participation in other similar programs.
Finally, I also need to remind you that all of the work you submit in this course should be your own. Students should review the UC student code of conduct and be aware of all activities defined as academic dishonesty. I do encourage students to exchange ideas and/or work together. However, unless it is a group project, each student is responsible for completing and submitting his or her own assignments.
Tentative Program Schedule and other relevant information (e.g. housing, transportation, etc)
Tourist attractions and stuff to do in Brussels
Tourist attractions and stuff to do in The Hague
Other relevant information (please check again)
For further details, updated information and reading materials check Blackboard
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