Time Schedule:
Halvor A Undem
JSIS B 527
Seattle Campus
Practical understanding of the development of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons plus missile delivery systems. Proliferation detection technology and its limitations. Case studies of past and current arms control agreements and non-proliferation programs.
Class description
The course provides future non-scientist, international security specialists with a fundamental level of understanding of the development and acquisition of weapons of mass destruction. The course emphasis is on nuclear weapons technology, though biological and chemical weapons technology and delivery systems are also reviewed. Historical and current real-world examples of technical arms control and nonproliferation efforts is a core theme. In addition to referenced texts and assigned readings, the course is augmented heavily from first-hand accounts by the instructor and other U.S. professionals working in the proliferation prevention and homeland security fields. The result is a course that is unique in the U.S. in providing students with a solid background in the technical dimensions of weapons of mass destruction, including verification, detection and monitoring.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
