Program overview: International institutions have become increasingly important players in our globalized world while while at the same time facing unprecedented challenges from various players. Institutions have impacted a variety of policies in different spheres of international interaction—from regulation of the global financial markets, to war, peace and transnational justice, and the spread of infectious diseases. Through on campus discussions at UC and a study abroad trip to Brussels and The Hague, careful reading, engaged responses, and independent research, students in this class will better understand the challenges of global governance and the institutional responses to address these challenges. 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.
Estimated Program Costs: check UHP application page! Program fees include lodging, airfare, local transportation (bus, metro, tram) in Brussels and The Hague, a visit to SHAPE in Mons, city tours and some meals. Students pay most meals and other expenses. The final cost is contingent upon airfare (which could change unexpectedly) and other arrangements.
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 The Hague and Brussels (May 3-11, 2025). If you are unable to attend the study abroad component, then you cannot enroll in the class. The class will meet once a week 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 2025 at latest in order to find an accommodation that meets best student’s interests. Also, for advice and assistance you may contact the university’s Accessibility Resources office, located in 57 W. Daniels Street, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0213, Phone 513-556-6823, Email: AccessResources@ucmail.uc.edu. Similarly, notify immediately the instructor if you have concerns regarding your trip to Brussels and The Hague. Failure to do so on time may incur significant costs for you.
Fourth, for detailed information about the cost of the trip see the program 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. Make sure to notify me if cannot make it.
Fifth, 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, University Honors Program (UHP) and the Taft Research Center offer various programs for those who are eligible to apply. Students from Taft Departments can apply for the Undergraduate Enrichment Award (currently up to $2,500). The award is intended to assist students with research projects that will enhance their learning experience in their major field. Please, note that usually the due date for Taft applications is in early-November. Further information is available on the Taft website.
Sixth, 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 2025 should notify the instructor; we will be make necessary accommodations that will NOT delay their planned graduation.
Seventh, students enrolled in 2097 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 this study abroad is valuable to the UC community in increasing their awareness and participation in similar programs. For further information see the videos created by UC students who participated in the program previous years.
Eighth, note that program organizers have taken necessary steps to protect students and faculty from various unanticipated contingencies or other challenges. For detailed safety instructions, please review below the document with tips and suggestions.
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 (including the use of artificial intelligence or AI). 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 Housing information (e.g. housing, transportation, etc)
Tourist attractions and stuff to do in Brussels
Tourist attractions and stuff to do in The Hague
Travel and safety tips and other relevant information
For further details, updated information and reading materials check Canvas.
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