U.N. Climate Change Negotiations Practicum

Duke University’s U.N. Climate Change Negotiations Practicum is a hands-on course that explores international climate change negotiations and climate policy under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

This course provides students with an opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the issues at the heart of global climate change — from adaptation and mitigation to the political dynamics of the UNFCCC negotiations process. Students engage in independent coursework, classroom discussions, and guest lectures throughout the semester, all in preparation for the annual U.N. climate change negotiations: the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP). See the 2025 Syllabus.

Travel to COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, is required for participation in this course. Students are responsible for finding badges to get into the conference itself, but travel to the location is guaranteed. If you have questions about possible travel concerns or restrictions, please reach out to the Duke Global Travel Office.

The Fall 2026 Practicum

The United Nations Climate Change Negotiations Practicum (ENVIRON 592/PUBPOL 592) will be offered during the Fall 2026 Semester. Participation is open to graduate and upper-level undergraduate students at Duke University for 3 units and 1 unit, respectively. The instructor for the course is Dr. Jackson Ewing.

For questions, please contact Colleen Nieto (colleen.nieto@duke.edu).