Following a brief review of the science of climate change the course will focus on the economics and politics of climate change; examine the potential physical and economic impacts of climate change on developed and developing countries; explore the projected growth in emissions and scenarios for temperature outcomes; review the history and status of international negotiations, including participating in a negotiation simulation; and examine options to mitigate, remove and adapt to greenhouse gas emissions.  The course will take a policy-oriented, inter-disciplinary approach that encompasses economic, political and implementation considerations. Students are not expected to have extensive backgrounds in science or economics. 

Assessment

In addition to reading the assigned materials, each student will be required to:

1. Write a policy brief addressed to to a key policy maker on a selected issue of mitigation or adaptation policy.
2. Participate in class discussions on the required readings and debates on key issues about climate change policies.
3. Write two short (maximum two pages each) blogs, op-eds or advocacy notes on a key policy issue.
4. There will be 1-2 short quizzes during the semester.

Grades will be computed on the following basis:  Policy brief 30%;  blog/op-ed/advocacy notes 30%; class participation, 20%; quizzes 20%

Competences, learning outcomes and teaching activities (PDF)