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This course explores the present-day security situation of the Arctic through a focus on the key stakeholders responsible for diplomacy and defense.
The Arctic: a region of frigid waters, tundra, and prolonged periods of light and darkness. While it may seem desolate, the Circumpolar North holds a wealth of resources and opportunities for nations and the Indigenous peoples who live there. Many challenges also exist, including shipping management, oil and gas production, mining activities, fisheries management, protection of threatened species, and significant defense-related difficulties, all within the context of dramatic climate change. This online course will provide a baseline understanding of security circumstances and management, as well as the variety of actors involved.
Arctic Security Fundamentals also explores the security situation of the Arctic through a focus on the key stakeholders responsible for diplomacy and defense. Although the post-Cold War Circumpolar North has remained mostly stable, rapid changes in climate and technology have created new conditions requiring increased attention and management.
Course participants will learn about the complex landscape of international norms and processes governing security in the Circumpolar North, as well as the balance of diplomacy and defense that nations employ to manage priority interests. Students will explore how the three realms of international relations—cooperation, competition, and conflict—interact in this unique environment.
This course is for:
None, however, an interest in international relations and defense is ideal.
Develop an introductory understanding of how the environment and people interact throughout the Arctic region
Define basic regional and international diplomacy organizations such as the Arctic Council, and how priority non-emergency issues are managed
Develop an understanding of identifying and managing regional security through cooperation and competition
Define the current regional defense disposition and potential future developments in the Arctic
Week 1:
Regional geography of the Arctic region, Arctic governance, and economic circumstances
Regional diplomacy, both international and regional
Week 2
Week 3:
Week 4:
Week 5:
How regional security actors manage competition
The defense disposition associated with the Arctic
Week 6:
An excellent introduction for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics and players of a rapidly changing region. It is equally engaging and thought provoking for both the student and experienced policy professional alike.
–Robert McKenna
The course far exceeded my expectations. It expanded and challenged my thinking. And it gave me language, tools and connections for continuing my learning.
–Gary Heck, Strategy Consultant, Chicago, IL
If you want to gain insights into a wide range of issues in one of the most fascinating areas of the world, this course is for you. The input and readings provided by Mr. Bouffard combined with the many contributions from experts each week was a highly enjoyable learning experience.
–Claire
Q: Does this course have any prerequisites?
A: No. Only a general interest in geopolitics and related issues is needed!
Q: Does this edX course lead into any other licensures or opportunities?
A: Yes, University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a graduate certificate in Arctic Security. Please find more details about this 12-credit certificate program on the UAF website: Arctic Security Graduate Certificate.
