America’s Pacific Century: Dialogues between the United States and Asia

• About The Course:

  The 21st century is shaping up to be the “America’s Pacific Century.”  But the US position is anything but certain in the dynamic region of East Asia.  As China’s influence expands and its power display becomes forceful in the South China Sea, concerns and expectations for the US role within the region rise.  These developments also complicate the US projection of power under its close alliance with countries like Australia and Japan.  The year 2013 is a delicate and important year; post-election consolidation takes place in the United States, and it is also the year after the leadership transition for China.  Hence, it is an exciting time to analyze the past, present and future of cross-Pacific dynamicsdiscussions and provide insight into the practical concerns such jobs entail.
  
  With the South China Sea and critical sea lanes in the area, Southeast Asia continues to be an important region to evaluate foreign policy postures of the two superpowers.  How is US foreign policy shaping up after the 2012 Presidential election?  How does China’s new leadership see its role in Southeast Asia?  And how would Southeast Asian leaders and analysts view prospects for regional stability?
  
  The School of International Relations offers a unique Maymester (May 20 through June 7, 2013) that focuses on the US foreign policy towards East Asia.  Taking the policy task form format, the course analyzes the recent US foreign policy towards Southeast Asia with the goal of drafting a Policy Report with our recommendations to the new US foreign policy team after the 2012 presidential election.  By connecting and visiting Singapore to participate in events, conduct interviews and make presentations, students will experience first-hand research experience.