Application

How can I be a part of the class?

Students interested in the course are asked to submit an application. Students admitted into the course will be provided a permission number to enroll.

The application for Fall 2023 will open on July 19th. Decisions will be released around August 16.

What do you look for in the application?

Students should demonstrate how this course will support the achievement of their career goals, how they will be able to contribute to class discussions, and indicate their specific interests related to COP.

The application consists of three essay questions and a resume/CV submission. No letters of recommendation or interviews are necessary.

How many students are selected for the course?

Up to 16 students may be admitted into the course.

When will I hear back about a decision?

The decisions will be released around August 16, 2023.

 

Students

What kind of student is the course best suited for?

This course is for any Duke graduate or upper-level undergraduate student interested in international climate change negotiations.

What prior knowledge/experience in UN climate policy should I have?

While students should demonstrate an interest in international climate policy and a connection to their career goals, no specific level of knowledge is necessary to do well in the course. Students of all levels, backgrounds, and schools are encouraged to apply.

 

Course Structure

What are the course goals and content?

The course provides students with an understanding of the history of the international climate change negotiations, the ability to analyze key policy issues and the positions of major parties, and hands-on experience with clients involved in the negotiations. The course covers the context of the negotiations and key negotiation topics, along with providing students the opportunity to investigate their own areas of interest.

What is the class format?

The class meets once a week for 90 minutes. Class meetings will have a mix of lectures, discussions, and guest speakers.

Outside of class time, students will be expected to read for each class and complete assignments, such as a policy memo.

What is the client project?

Students are encouraged to connect with organizations of interest attending COP and collaborate with them on a project. Tasks may range from tracking COP negotiations to conducting policy research or supporting event logistics.

 

Attending COP

Is attending COP guaranteed for students in the course?

No. Attending COP is dependent upon the course acquiring sufficient COP badges and funding, navigating COVID restrictions, and being granted travel approval from Duke.

Are there fees/costs associated with the course?

This course receives funding from Bass Connections. The funding received is typically sufficient to cover flights and hotel accommodations for students.

Students are responsible for their food while at COP and may be responsible for travel around the COP location and VISA fees.

Will students be required to sign any form?

Yes. Admitted students will be asked to sign the necessary forms, waivers, and approvals issued by the Duke Global Administrative and Travel Support office to comply with COP travel.

What are the travel logistics for attending COP?

Students are responsible for requesting permission to attend COP from their other professors and coordinating how to make up work missed while at COP. Students are also responsible for acquiring VISA, though logistical support is available.

While COP is two weeks long, students will be divided into two groups that will each attend one week – should sufficient COP badges and funding be provided.

 

What should I do if I have more questions?

If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to:

Gabriela Nagle Alverio – gabriela.nagle@duke.edu

Ina Liao – ina.liao@duke.eduÂ