International and Area Studies

University of California, Berkeley

This is an archived copy of the 2014-15 guide. To access the most recent version of the guide, please visit http://guide.berkeley.edu/.

Overview

The International and Area Studies Academic Program (IAS) provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of international and global issues. Comprised of six undergraduate majors and three graduate degree programs, IAS is a unique intellectual domain. At a historical moment of unprecedented inter-connectedness, IAS trains students in the knowledge and skills that are fundamental components of global citizenship and practice. IAS has strategically adopted an interdisciplinary approach to such training with the belief that no single discipline can prepare students in the depth and breadth necessary for a complex and reflexive understanding of world history and contemporary globalization. Accordingly, IAS offers interdisciplinary core courses  in fields such as political economy, development studies, and peace & conflict studies and then incorporates courses offered through many other departments, offering students a rigorous but flexible curriculum which recognizes that learning takes place both inside and outside the classroom.

Concurrent Master's Degree

The MA degree in International and Area Studies (IAS) is a two-year concurrent Masters program. It is an interdisciplinary program designed to complement the graduate degree work by providing the fundamentals of contemporary international issues and/or detailed knowledge on particular world regions or countries. The MA degree in International and Area Studies provides wide flexibility in crafting an individual interdisciplinary program complementing or enhancing the primary area of graduate study. Students tailor the content of their programs within a defined framework to suit their interests. Specific course work is chosen in consultation with a faculty adviser.

This program is available only to students who are currently registered in an UC Berkeley graduate program. For further information, please visit the program's website .

Undergraduate Programs

Asian Studies (China) : BA
Asian Studies (Japan) : BA
Asian Studies (Multi-Area) : BA
Development Studies : BA
Latin American Studies : BA
Middle Eastern Studies : BA
Peace and Conflict Studies : BA
Political Economy : BA
Chinese Studies : Minor
Global Poverty and Practice : Minor
Japanese Studies : Minor
Korean Studies : Minor
Middle Eastern Studies : Minor
Peace and Conflict Studies : Minor
Political Economy : Minor

Graduate Programs

Asian Studies : MA, PhD
Latin American Studies:  MA

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Courses

International and Area Studies

IAS 45 Survey of World History 4 Units

This course focuses on benchmarks of the history of various nations and civilizations. It begins with the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Chinese, but emphasizes world developments since the 15th century. The purpose of the course is to gain a better understanding of the rise and decline of states, empires, and international trading systems. Therefore, political and economic structures and developments as well as military factors will be presented along with the more traditional historical perspectives.

IAS 98 Issues in Political Economy and Development 2 Units

This course is geared towards intended Political Economy and Development Studies majors. It consists of a series of guest lectures presenting different issues and perspectives of political economy and development. Topics will be divided into three general sections: 1) theories on political economy and development; 2) historical background on the causes and effects of politics and markets; and 3) case studies on both the international and domestic levels. Peer discussion groups are led by honors students.

IAS 102 Scope and Methods of Research in International and Area Studies 4 Units

Required prerequisite for all students intending to enroll in Development Studies H195 and Political Economy of Industrial Societies H195. Introduction to interdisciplinary research strategies for the collection, interpretation, and analysis of data. Course integrates the study of the fundamental theories of social science with the practical techniques of social science research methods.

IAS H102 Scope and Methods of Research in International and Area Studies 4 Units

Required prerequisite for all students intending to enroll in Development Studies H195, Latin American Studies H195, Political Economy of Industrial Societies H195, and Peace and Conflict Studies H195. Course provides an introduction to interdisciplinary research strategies for the collection, interpretation, and analysis of data. Course integrates the study of the fundamental theories of social science with the practical techniques of social science research methods.

IAS 106 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory 4 Units

This course is designed as a comprehensive overview of intermediate microeconomic theory. It covers a number of topics including consumer and demand theory, firm, production and cost theory, competitive market theory, imperfect competition, welfare economics, choice under uncertainty and information. All analysis conducted in the course relies on graphical and algebraic techniques. Outside readings and discussion sections will demonstrate the applicability of the models covered in class to topics with an international dimension, such as the setting of tariffs, cartel behavior, and international trade.

IAS 107 Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory 4 Units

This course is designed as a comprehensive overview of intermediate macroeconomic theory focusing on economic growth and international economics. It covers a number of topics including history of economic growth, industrial revolution, post-industrial revolution divergence, flexible-price and sticky-price macroeconomics, and macroeconomic policy. Course is structured for majors in International and Area Studies and other non-economic social science majors.

IAS C118 Introductory Applied Econometrics 4 Units

Formulation of a research hypothesis and definition of an empirical strategy. Regression analysis with cross-sectional and time-series data; econometric methods for the analysis of qualitative information; hypothesis testing. The techniques of statistical and econometric analysis are developed through applications to a set of case studies and real data in the fields of environmental, resource, and international development economics. Students learn the use of a statistical software for economic data analysis.

IAS 120 Selected Topics - International and Area Studies 3 Units

Interdisciplinary study of selected topics in international and area studies focusing on issues in greater than a general topic lecture course. Through the use of lectures, discussions, and multimedia presentations, students will explore a variety of perspectives relating to the subject matter of the course. Students will be expected to successfully complete various writing assignments or short projects, and written exams. Instructor and topic will vary from term to term.

IAS 140 Special Topics 2 Units

A short course designed to provide a vehicle to take advantage of short-term visitors coming to campus who have considerable expertise in areas of interest to international and area studies. Topics will vary from semester to semester.

IAS C148 Education and International Development 4 Units

This course is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of international development education. Through the use of lectures, discussions, and multimedia presentations, students will examine three core themes: 1) the purpose of education; 2) how contemporary development policy conceptualizes education; 3) education as a tool for social transformation. To the extent possible, the course draws connections between theory and practical case studies of international education programs, policy statements, and initiatives.

IAS 150 Advanced Studies in International and Area Studies 4 Units

Advanced multidisciplinary research in current issues and topics in international and area studies. Course will focus on specific issues or geographical areas with appropriate comparative material included. A major research project is required as well as class presentations. Topics change each semester.

IAS 157AC Engineering, The Environment, and Society 4 Units

This course engages students at the intersection of environmental justice, social justice, and engineering to explore how problems that are commonly defined in technical terms are at their roots deeply socially embedded. Through partnerships with community-based organizations, students are trained to recognize the socio-political nature of technical problems so that they may approach solutions in ways that prioritize social justice. Topics covered include environmental engineering as it relates to air, water, and soil contamination; race, class, and privilege; expertise; ethics; and engaged citizenship. This course cannot be used to complete any engineering technical or unit requirements.

IAS 158AC Social Movements, Urban Histories, and the Politics of Memory 4 Units

Course examines the history of progressive social movements in the San Francisco Bay Area. Combining history, sociology, urban geography, and ethnic studies, we ask: why and how these movements emerged? What cultural, racial, ethnic and political identities were drawn from, reconfigured, and created within these movements? What kinds of knowledge and institutions were created by these movements, and how have these legacies shaped (and been shaped by) the geography, culture, and politics of the area. As part of the ACES program, this course also engages students in creating social movement documentation through collaborations with community partners. Small student groups, supervised by an ACES Fellow, will carry out documentation projects.

IAS 158AC Social Movements, Urban Histories, and the Politics of Memory 4 Units

Course examines the history of progressive social movements in the San Francisco Bay Area. Combining history, sociology, urban geography, and ethnic studies, we ask: why and how these movements emerged? What cultural, racial, ethnic and political identities were drawn from, reconfigured, and created within these movements? What kinds of knowledge and institutions were created by these movements, and how have these legacies shaped (and been shaped by) the geography, culture, and politics of the area. As part of the ACES program, this course also engages students in creating social movement documentation through collaborations with community partners. Small student groups, supervised by an ACES Fellow, will carry out documentation projects.

IAS 160 Berkeley Summer Institute for the Global Generation 4 Units

This course is designed to expose both precollege and college level students to the issues, challenges, and skills needed to negotiate the global economic, social, political, and physical environment. It is an innovative and integrated approach to global studies pedagogy and leadership development. Students will be exposed to and trained in the fundamental concepts of globalization, global inequality, and global change. In addition to the general education provided by the core module of the course, each year the course will tackle a different theme that amplifies key issues in global studies. The course will link theory and analysis to the transformative forms of practice. Students will work in teams on a real-world project related to the course theme, thus developing valuable leadership skills. The faculty coordinator will be joined by experts both from within and outside the institution to bring to students lectures, presentations, experiential opportunities, workshops, and group projects to explore the concept of leadership, issues of human poverty, human rights, social justice, urban planning for sustainable growth, and development.

IAS C170 Portugal: Language and Culture 6 Units

This summer course provides the opportunity to begin and/or continue the study of Portuguese language and enhances awareness of Portuguese culture through direct contact with Portuguese educational and cultural institutions. Additionally, it examines historical, cultural, economic and political links between Portugal, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, particularly South America.

IAS C175 The Economics of Climate Change 4 Units

The course will start with a brief introduction and evaluation of the scientific aspects behind climate change. Economic models will be developed to analyze the impacts of climate change and provide and critique existing and proposed policy tools. Specific topics studied are impacts on water resources and agriculture, economic evaluation of impacts, optimal control of greenhouse gases, benefit cost analysis, international treaty formation, discounting, uncertainty, irreversibility, and extreme events.

IAS 180 Current Issues in International and Area Studies 2 or 3 Units

This course provides an opportunity to study and discuss issues and events having recent international impact and/or interest. The course will present a multidisciplinary perspective on specific subjects with the intent of linking students with the scholars and scholarship involved in understanding and explaining current international issues, events, and crisis. The subjects will vary from semester to semester. Students may enroll in the lecture only for 2 units or may enroll in the lecture and discussion section for 3 units.

IAS 194 Senior Seminar in International and Area Studies 4 Units

Interdisciplinary research seminar for students in IAS majors. Intensive writing on research questions in social science and public policy best approached from an interdisciplinary perspective. Course assumes intermediate to advanced knowledge of central focus or topic of course. Weekly discussions and critiques of readings and assignments. Final paper or project required. Topic must be approved by instructor. Topics vary from term to term.

IAS 196 Special Field Research 2 - 6 Units

Students to work in internship programs selected and approved in advance by the faculty advisory committee and for which volunteer agreements have been established between the sponsoring organization and the student. Students will be expected to produce two brief progress reports for their faculty advisor during the course of the interniship, as well as produce a final capstone piece for the course consisting of no fewer than 25 pages. The capstone paper will be graded A-F and judged on the same scholastic merits as a seminar or honors course. If taken on a P/NP basis, the established C+ standard will apply. The course is only available to students in the Global Poverty and Practice minor. Other International Area Studies majors may enroll if approved by their respective faculty chair.

IAS 197 Field Studies 1 - 4 Units

Supervised experience relevant to specific aspects of international and area studies in off-campus organizations. Regular individual meetings with faculty sponsor and written reports required.

IAS 198 Directed Group Study 1 - 4 Units

Student initiated course, the content of which is approved by faculty in charge.

IAS 199 Supervised Independent Study and Research for Undergraduates 1 - 3 Units

Written proposal must be approved by a faculty adviser. Enrollment restrictions apply; see the Introduction to Courses and Curricula section of this catalog.

IAS 202 Seminar in Portuguese Studies 1 Unit

Portuguese immigrants have exerted a strong imprint on the landscape and culture of California and other regions of North America, and the study of this diaspora continues to be a lively topic of scholarly research. Likewise, the rapid transformations of Portugal and Portuguese society as it has emerged from the stultifying effects of decades of dictatorship and integrates into the EU make for compelling research topics. The strong parallels between the Mediterranean-climate landscapes of Portugal and California provide excellent opportunities for comparative studies in environment and human adaptations in environment. This seminar provides a forum for the presentation and discussion of ongoing research on topics in Portuguese studies by Berkeley faculty and graduate students, as well as visiting scholars and fellows.

IAS 206 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory 4 Units

This course is designed as a comprehensive overview of intermediate microeconomic theory. It covers a number of topics including consumer and demand theory, firm, production, and cost theory, competitive market theory, imperfect competition, welfare economics, choice under uncertainity, and information. All analysis conducted in the course relies on graphical and algebraic techniques. Outside reading and discussion sections will demonstrate the applicability of the models covered in class to topics with an international dimension, such as the setting of tariffs, cartel behavior, and international trade.

IAS 207 Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory 4 Units

This course is designed as a comprehensive overview of intermediate macroeconomic theory focusing on economic growth and international economics. It covers a number of topics including history of economic growth, industrial revolution, post-industrial revolution divergence, flexible-price and sticky-price macroeconomics, and macroeconomic policy. Course is structured for majors in AIS and other non-economic social science majors.

IAS C229 Mediterranean-Climate Landscapes 1 - 3 Units

Comparative study of environmental conditions and human responses thereto in California and other Mediterranean-climate regions, with intensive treatment of a topic in environmental sciences, policy, planning, management, and/or landscape architecture, with application to California, Portugal, or other Mediterranean-climate regions. Students collect and analyze relevant data, synthesize, and complete technical reports, plans, and/or designs.

IAS 230 Cross-Listed Topics 1 - 4 Units

This course is designed to accommodate cross-listed courses offered through other departments, when the content of the courses is applicable to the graduate program in International and Area Studies. Content varies from course to course.

IAS 240 Special Topics 2 Units

A short course designed to provide a vehicle to take advantage of short-term visitors coming to campus who have considerable expertise in areas of interest to International and Area Studies graduate students. Topics will vary from semester to semester.

IAS 250 Graduate Studies in International and Area Studies 4 Units

Graduate multidisciplinary research in current issues and topics of international and area studies. Seminars will focus on specific geographical areas with appropriate comparative material included. A major research project is required as well as class presentations. Topics change each semester.

IAS 255 Rotary Peace Fellows Seminar 2 - 4 Units

Graduate seminar specifically focused on issues of peace, conflict resolution, human rights, and other topics relevant to the scope of study represented by the Rotary Peace Fellows. Seminars will include weekly meetings, readings, presentations, and discussions. Assignments will include both individual projects and group projects of appropriate scope and depth reflective of unit value of each offering.

IAS 292 Directed Advanced Research 2 - 4 Units

This course is intended to provide supervision in preparation of a major research paper on international and area studies topics. The topic should be agreed upon in advance by both the student and faculty sponsor and generally will be topics not covered in other existing course work.

IAS 299 Directed Reading 1 - 4 Units

Individual conferences intended to provide directed reading in subject matter not covered by available seminar offerings.

IAS 375 Professional Training: Teaching in IAS 2 Units

This course is intended to prepare students from the various social science disciplines to be instructors in interdisciplinary/multi-departmental courses. It will serve as a forum to discuss problems and create innovative solutions to these problems. Focusing on course construction and operation, specialists from various disciplines will discuss strategies for moving outside of their areas of specialization and into broader areas of international and area studies. Graduate students will be provided training in building their own interdisciplinary courses from the ground up. Organizing syllabi, preparing lectures, devising written assignments, leading discussion sections, constructing evaluative mechanisms and grading them, will all be covered over the course of the semester.

Contact Information

International and Area Studies Academic Program

101 Stephens Hall

Phone: 510-642-4466

Fax: 510-642-9850

iastp@berkeley.edu

Visit Program Website

Program Director

Maximilian Auffhammer, PhD (Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics

auffhammer@berkeley.edu

Chair, Asian Studies

Bonnie Wade, PhD (Department of Music)

bcwade@berkeley.edu

Co-Chair, Development Studies

Gillian Hart, PhD (Department of Geography)

551 McCone Hall

hart@berkeley.edu

Co-Chair, Development Studies

Michael Watts, PhD (Department of Geography)

555 McCone Hall

Phone: 510-642-3902

mwatts@berkeley.edu

Chair, Global Poverty and Practice

Ananya Roy, MCP, PhD (Department of City and Regional Planning)

Phone: 510-642-5938

anaya@berkeley.edu

Chair, Latin American Studies

Estelle Tarica, PhD (Depart of Spanish and Portuguese)

etarica@berkeley.edu

Chair, Peace and Conflict Studies

Katharya Um (Department of Ethnic Studies)

umk@berkeley.edu

Chair, Political Economy

Katharya Um (Department of Ethnic Studies)

umk@berkeley.edu

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