Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - IS 101 D100

Global Challenges of the 21st Century: An Introduction to International Studies (3)

Class Number: 3300

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the interdisciplinary field of International Studies to all undergraduates and IS majors. Examines the major global challenges of our time, including poverty and inequality, environmental degradation, nationalism, civil war, and armed conflict. Explores the challenge of global governance and global citizenship. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces International Studies, an interdisciplinary field focused on the global challenges of the 21st century.  The course is structured around the three interrelated streams of the undergraduate major at SFU:  1) International Security and Conflict, which examines the causes and consequences of wars, both within and between states, and the possible ways of resolving conflicts and building peace and security.  2) Comparative World Politics, Culture, and Society, which examines issues such as religion and politics, nationalism, and patterns of democratization and authoritarian rule around the world; and 3) International Development, Economic and Environmental Issues, which examines the problems of poverty and inequality, development strategies and policies, and issues around sustainable development. The course introduces some of the questions, debates, and approaches for understanding and addressing important global challenges in each of the three streams.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Describe and critically analyze the nature and causes of contemporary global challenges
  • Describe and evaluate key international responses
  • Describe and critically assess the roles played by states, intergovernmental organizations, and nongovernmental organizations in addressing global challenges
  • Communicate ideas clearly and persuasively in writing

Grading

NOTES:

Grades for the course will be based on the following assignments:
1.     Tutorial attendance and participation 
2.     Writing 
3.     Midterm exams 
4.     Final exam

Percentages TBD

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Additional materials made available on Canvas.

REQUIRED READING:

Scott Straus and Barry Driscoll, International Studies: Global Forces, Interactions, and Tensions (Third Edition, 2026)

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.