International Development and Influence

Students are introduced to the political and historical background of U.S. efforts to foster development in developing countries, and the cultural, economic and legal factors involved in planning and engaging in economic and infrastructural development in these areas. Students focus on the value and role of analytical research, identifying stakeholders, understanding the role of non-governmental organizations and assessing the social, cultural, and political context of the areas of development. Participants are introduced to the role development as a means of furthering democratic principles and U.S. foreign policy. Focus is on the problems and challenges presented by conflicts, corruption and poor governance in areas of development, strategic planning, security analysis, management of information public works and other infrastructural projects, and how the developing organizations should integrate or coordinate their efforts with other actors in the area. Students are familiarized with the process of an organizational needs assessment as a necessary step in planning international development.

A bachelor's degree in any discipline from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by WES, IERF, or SpanTran.