This course takes us to the South Caucasus countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Since independence from the USSR, each of these countries has pursued individual paths in foreign policy, shaping alliances with neighboring countries. We will study these paths both individually and collectively. Individually we explore the complex relationships with not only the most proximate (geographically) powers of Iran, Turkey, and Russia, but also with the EU, US, China, India, and others. Collectively we look at the relationships between these three countries, conflicts, real and potential areas for cooperation, and infrastructure development.

The geography of the Caucasus is some of the most dramatic and fascinating in the world. It is truly a region where geography shapes history and identity. We will start and end in Tbilisi (Georgia) and in between visit Baku (Azerbaijan) and Yerevan (Armenia). We will blend formal lectures and workshops with experiential learning. We will come to understand the worldview from these countries and why we should be paying more attention to them.


-Courses-
REES 390 Geopolitics and Security in the Caucasus
Study the geopolitical and security landscape of one of the most fascinating regions of the world - and one very much shaped by geography. Our primary focus is the South Caucasus countries of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. We will look at the trajectories of each of these countries since independence and the relationship between them. We will then consider each country's foreign policy and geopolitical strategy as it navigates relationships near (Russia, Iran, Turkey) and far (the West, China, Central Asia, India). We will look at the internal conflicts and how they are exploited by countries seeking to hold/gain influence. From this vantage point we will also study the North Caucasus (in Russia).
4 credits

LANGUAGE COURSES (EXTENDED SESSION ONLY)
If you select the 2025 Summer + Language option, you will join either the 4-week Tbilisi: Russian as a Second Language or the Georgian Language & Culture program for the period May 23 - June 20.

RUSS 101-102/201-202/301-302/401 Russian Language Study
Russian is still a lingua franca for politics and business in much of the post-Soviet space. Take your Russian up a level with this intensive course and be prepared to use it throughout your travels in the Caucasus. Read more about the RSL course here. 4 credits.

REES 390 Georgian Language & Culture
Georgian language is unlike any other. Whether you already study Russian or another language and just have an overall fascination with language and linguistics or you would like to boost your resume with an eye toward a career in the region or simply want to integrate even more into the local community, this is for you. Read more about this course here. 4 credits.

REES 397 Internship in Area Studies (optional)
The SRAS internship course is designed to provide students with hands-on experience and academic enrichment while furthering their community understanding during their time abroad. Students will be placed in an internship based on their interests, availability, and relevant experience. Placements may be at a local NGO, business, media outlet, local museum, or local educational institution. Each internship comes with a diverse set of requirements and responsibilities that vary depending on its field. 2 credits.

For more information, and to apply, click here.