Courses

    This course reviews the basic principles of international law related to the many exclusive and inclusive uses of ocean space, especially on those critical issues affecting U.S. national security. Students will develop an understanding of the legal regimes governing the oceans, from internal waters and other coastal zones through the regimes of the high seas, and an overall appreciation for U.S. oceans law and policy, based on relevant principles of international and national law. Topics include navigation and overflight rights, living and non-living ocean resources, military and law-enforcement activities, protecting the marine environment, marine scientific research, the law of naval warfare, and the processes for developing ocean policy and for resolving international disputes. Students will research and engage in class discussions on a number of problems involving national security issues and the use of ocean space, including maritime terrorism, military exercises, at-sea trafficking in illicit drugs, piracy, the global proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, collection of intelligence, and naval rules of engagement. Final exam only.