Budget Option for National Security
In 700 to 1,000 words, lay out background information and arguments for and against one change in national security policy and its potential effect on the federal budget. (Your change can come from the national defense, homeland security, or international affairs account.) Include a table showing the budgetary effects (savings or costs, in both Budget Authority and Outlays) over the period from 2005 to 2014. Language should be neutral and non-partisan, and both sides of the issue should be addressed fairly. Aim for a style similar to the one in CBO's compendium, Budget Options, March 2003. In addition to the option paper, please provide the spreadsheet that you use to calculate budgetary effects, including your assumptions about inflation and outlay rates.
Due Date: Session 5
Grading: 25 percent
Op-Ed About a National Security Policy Issue With Budget Implications
Prepare a 700-1,000 word opinion article about a national security issue that you are passionate about. If possible, the article should hook into an event or issue that is in current (or recent) play in the media. It should be written to capture the attention of the newspaper-reading public and in language that is accessible to the general public. Samples and guidelines will be distributed in class. If students wish, we will hold a one-hour session outside of class to discuss some tricks of the trade.
Due Date: Session 8
Grading: 25 percent
Top-Level Defense Review (Group Project)
Prepare an annotated briefing that outlines a new national security strategy and the military force structure, modernization programs, infrastructure, and budgets to go with it. As a departure point, students will be provided with a set of budget constraints and policy guidelines (such as a summary of invented campaign quotes from an imaginary new president).
Briefing Date: Session 12, the final class meeting
Grading: 40 percent
Guidelines for Group Project (PDF)
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