Politics and Economics of International Energy Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the politics and economics of international energy, with a focus on climate policy and sustainable development. Structured into six modules, it covers key topics such as carbon constraints, nuclear energy, governance, energy security, and global climate agreements. With approximately 12 hours of content per module, learners will gain foundational knowledge applicable to careers in energy policy and sustainability. Total time commitment is around 72 hours, designed for flexible, self-paced study on Coursera.

Module 1: Carbon Constraints and Energy Futures

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Challenges of transitioning to a low-carbon energy future
• Impact of carbon constraints on fossil fuel markets
• Policy mechanisms for decarbonization
• Global energy trends in a carbon-constrained world

Module 2: Nuclear Power Debate

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Economic considerations of nuclear energy
• Environmental and safety concerns
• Political challenges in nuclear policy
• Nuclear power's role in reducing carbon emissions

Module 3: Energy and Climate Governance

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Evolving global governance structures
• Interlinkages between energy and climate policy
• Role of international institutions
• Challenges in coordinating global action

Module 4: Energy Security and Affordability

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Defining energy security in a changing climate
• Trade-offs between security, affordability, and sustainability
• Government strategies for balancing energy priorities
• Geopolitical implications of energy dependence

Module 5: Global Climate Agreements

Estimated time: 12 hours

• History and evolution of international climate agreements
• The Paris Agreement and its energy implications
• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
• Enforcement and compliance challenges

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Develop a comprehensive energy and climate policy plan
• Incorporate principles of carbon constraints and energy security
• Present strategies aligned with global climate goals

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of global environmental issues
• Familiarity with international relations concepts
• Interest in energy policy and sustainability

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Analyze the impact of carbon constraints on global energy markets
• Evaluate the role of nuclear energy in low-carbon transitions
• Understand the interplay between energy and climate governance
• Assess how nations balance energy security, affordability, and climate goals
• Contribute to policy development within governments or international organizations