Curriculum Guide · Courses

Professor Gelpern

J.D. Seminar 1068 (cross-listed) | 1 credit hours

This is an intensive research seminar designed to explore cutting-edge legal issues in international finance in a policy context. Students will prepare a series of individual research papers (approximately 3,000 words each which is about 12 pages), and will collaborate to produce presentation materials, on a topic coordinated with outside experts and practitioners. At the end of the term, students who have completed their papers will have an opportunity to present their work and engage in a question and answer session with the experts who helped develop the assignment. Students will work closely as a group and with the instructor to ensure comprehensive coverage of the topic and a high-quality, integrated paper series. The seminar will include visits by practitioners, academics, and library faculty expert in the relevant area, and workshops on individual research papers. Assessment will be based on the final paper and presentation, as well as seminar participation. The participation component will include blogging, speaking in class, and collaborating on group presentation documents.

The topic for the Spring 2012 paper series was developed in consultation with members of the legal staff of an international organization. Students will analyze financial safety net and financial crisis response institutions in different jurisdictions, including the United States and member states of the European Union. Such institutions may include finance ministries, central banks, deposit guarantee agencies, and special-purpose crisis funds.

The seminar will meet for seven two-hour sessions on January 19 and 26, February 2 and 9, March 22 and 29, and April 5. The first four sessions will coordinate essential background information, research strategies, paper topics, and presentation materials. Students will draft their papers between February 9 and March 22. The last three sessions will be devoted to student paper workshops and preparation for presentations.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Spring 2012 International Finance or prior enrollment in the Fall 2010 International Finance and Regulation. Students who have relevant work experience or prior coursework may get the permission of the professor. Students seeking permission should email Professor Gelpern at agelpern@wcl.american.edu telling why they think they can and should take the course, with a description of relevant coursework and work experience.

The seminar will meet for seven Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on the following days: January 19 and 26, February 2 and 9, March 22 and 29, and April 5.