Political Science (POL_SC)

POL_SC 1100: American Government

Topics covered include Constitution, federalism, civil liberties, political attitudes, interest groups, political parties, nominations, elections, and campaigns, voting behavior, Congress, Presidency, bureaucracy, and judiciary. Meets state law requirement.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 1400: International Relations

Contemporary international affairs including family of nations, control of national foreign policies, competition and cooperation in legal, political, economic, social fields.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 1704: Introduction to Black Politics

(same as BL_STU 1704). This course is oriented toward the development of concepts and theory in the study of black politics. The readings in the course are divided into political science categories such as ideology, electoral participation, movement politics and public policy. In addition, major periods in black political history are examined in the light of the behavioral and theoretical concerns prominent in political science. Black Politics seeks an increased understanding of Black Diaspora history as a group and the various political effects of the history of slavery and racism; and (2) studies Black Diaspora struggles for racial justice, civil rights, political equality, and fundamental respect in the face of both explicit and structural or systematic racism.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2004: Topics in Political Science - Social Science

Organized study of selected topics. Subjects and earnable credit may vary from semester to semester.

Credit Hour: 1-3

POL_SC 2100: State Government

Government and politics at the state level, with emphasis on Missouri. Meets state law constitutional requirement.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2150: How Government Affects You

We examine what government does in the US, at all levels of government, including federal, state, and local. We then answer the question -- How Does Government Affect You? -- using a wealth of empirical work in political science, economics, and public policy, as well as a wide range of US government documents. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 2200: The Judicial Process

Analysis of roles played by American judges and courts in democratic policy formation.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2250: Missouri Politics

This course examines the government and politics of the state of Missouri. We will study the Missouri Constitution, the structure and function of the Missouri state government, and the politics - partisan and otherwise - of the state of Missouri. We will consider public policy development and implementation and examine several areas of that public policy: health, public safety, education, resource management, and others.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2250H: Missouri Politics - Honors

POL_SC 2293: Globalization, Identity and Citizenship

(same as PEA_ST 2293, GEOG 2293). This course examines the forces of globalization that are transforming our world, and explores the various responses -- psychological, social and political -- that people have been making over the past fiJy years. Part I examines globalization as an economic and geographical process, generating huge social consequences, with rapid growth, population movements, political change and a vast gap between global wealth and poverty. Part II focuses on the ways in which individuals are now seeking to find themselves in this globalizing world. Emphasis will be placed on the ways in which national iden]ty, faith, gender and sexuality are emerging as key loci around which contemporary people (especially young people) are trying to forge new social identities for themselves. The course will conclude by examining the recently emerging (and highly contested) concept of 'global citizenship'. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2293W: Globalization, Identity and Citizenship - Writing Intensive

(same as PEA_ST 2293W, GEOG 2293W). This course examines the forces of globalization that are transforming our world, and explores the various responses -- psychological, social and political -- that people have been making over the past fiJy years. Part I examines globalization as an economic and geographical process, generating huge social consequences, with rapid growth, population movements, political change and a vast gap between global wealth and poverty. Part II focuses on the ways in which individuals are now seeking to find themselves in this globalizing world. Emphasis will be placed on the ways in which national iden]ty, faith, gender and sexuality are emerging as key loci around which contemporary people (especially young people) are trying to forge new social identities for themselves. The course will conclude by examining the recently emerging (and highly contested) concept of 'global citizenship'. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2410: The Politics of International Law

This course provides an introduction to the development and evolution of international law. Using contemporary events and international relations theory, we explore the origins of international law, discuss why (or why not) states choose to comply, and consider important areas such as war, trade, environmental protection, and human rights to determine the importance of international law in the contemporary international system.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2425: Race and the American Story

(same as BL_STU 2425, CNST_DEM 2425). This course represents a collaboration between the University of Missouri's Department of Black Studies and the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy. Building upon the existing Citizenship@Mizzou program, the course aims to carry forward the goals of the Citizenship program and to further solidify and magnify its impact on campus. In so doing, the course will also serve as a model for improving diversity education on campuses across the country and contribute to a more informed and unified national culture. The core syllabus will consist in readings that tell the story of the confrontation between American political principles and the practice of racial injustice throughout our history. Students will read and discuss the Declaration of Independence, the slavery clauses in the Constitution, the poetry of Phillis Wheatley, and the speeches of Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King, Jr., among others. They will achieve a greater understanding of how diversity relates to humanity, and will learn to dialogue productively and civilly with others who may not share their background or opinions.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2445: American Constitutional Democracy

(same as HIST 2445, CNST_DEM 2445) This course offers an introduction to American consitutional democracy. On the one hand, this course will strive to set the development of America's constitutional democracy into its historical context and to explain it in relation to larger social, political, military, and economic events. A second emphasis is on the nature and character of the American democratic system. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2450: The Intellectual World of the American Founders

(same as CNST_DEM 2450). This course demonstrates that truly understanding the American constitutional and democratic traditions begins with acknowledging and studying how, in framing the Constitution and in imagining the new nation, the Founders drew on the work and cobbled together the ideas of thinkers from multiple eras and continents and, moreover, thinkers of vastly different political ideologies and disciplinary expertise.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2450H: The Intellectual World of the American Founders - Honors

(same as CNST_DEM 2450H). This course demonstrates that truly understanding the American constitutional and democratic traditions begins with acknowledging and studying how, in framing the Constitution and in imagining the new nation, the Founders drew on the work and cobbled together the ideas of thinkers from multiple eras and continents and, moreover, thinkers of vastly different political ideologies and disciplinary expertise.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: Honors eligibility required

POL_SC 2455: Constitutional Debates

(same as CNST_DEM 2455). This is an undergraduate seminar on the political thought surrounding the drafting and ratification of the United States Constitution. It is not a course in "high theory." We will make reference to theorists including Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau, and describe the underlying beliefs and values of the Founders in terms of various theses (Small Republic, Balance of Orders, Natural Rights among others). However, our primary task is to understand the specific objectives that shaped the design of the Constitution and United States government.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 2455H: Constitutional Debates - Honors

(same as CNST_DEM 2455H).This is an undergraduate seminar on the political thought surrounding the drafting and ratification of the United States Constitution. It is not a course in "high theory." We will make reference to theorists including Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau, and describe the underlying beliefs and values of the Founders in terms of various theses (Small Republic, Balance of Orders, Natural Rights among others). However, our primary task is to understand the specific objectives that shaped the design of the Constitution and United States government.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: Honors eligibility required; POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 2500: The Science of Politics

This course provides an introduction to the Science of Politics. We will consider a variety of research methods, including historical case study research, field research, quantitative analysis, survey research, experimental techniques, and more. Whatever the research method, one of the central objectives of the course is for students to come away with a clear understanding of how to evaluate causal relationships in the political world. The course is also chock-full of real world applications, with the goal of using actual science to empower you in three ways. First, you will appreciate that the root of science is skepticism and logic, allowing you to make freer choices and to become a better problem solver. Second, in this course you will become a practiced consumer of social science, giving you substantial power to understand, evaluate, and utilize scientific knowledge, whether you choose to work in politics, journalism, industry, government, or elsewhere. Third, the course will provide you with actual research explaining why politicians seek and win elections, why countries go to war, why we follow our parents' political ideologies, why some countries are rich and others poor, and so much more of vital importance for our planet. To think scientifically, in short, is to develop understanding of humanity, seeing the invisible yet powerful forces that shape our lives. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2600: Canadian Politics and Government

Introductory survey of Canada, including constitutional development, governmental institutions, political participation, and Canadians' political attitudes and behaviors.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2700: Comparative Political Systems

Analysis of major political systems selected from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America, emphasizing basic concepts of comparative political study.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2710: Politics and the Military

Comparative study of post-cold war civil-military relations; military as an interest group, change agent, policy instrument and competitor of civilian politicians.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2720: European Democracies

This course provides an introduction to the institutions and issues in contemporary European political systems. It covers domestic institutions and policies as well as the developments of the European Union.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2745: The Politics of Sport

The students participating in this class should expect to learn the ways in which sports and politics intersect; how sport is both the cause, and result, of political processes; how society's attachment to teams are linked to our identities, both social and political; how sport defines us physically, reflects class, and reproduces shared history. This is primarily a political science course, and no prior knowledge of sport in general, or any sport in particular, is necessary.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2800: Liberty, Justice and the Common Good

(same as CNST_DEM 2800). Selected great political theorists and their contemporary relevance. How to think critically about political ideas and ideologies.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 2860: American Political Thought

Examines major themes that shaped three centuries of American political thought, including slavery, religion, and the tension between unity and difference. Readings are drawn from primary sources (Jefferson, Adams, Mason, Tocqueville, Calhoun, Lincoln, Stowe, Baldwin) as well as contemporary analytic commentary on those sources (Bercovitch, Hartz, Wolin, Guinier, Morrison).

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 3000: Introduction to Political Research

This course is an introduction to the systematic analysis of political phenomenon. It examines the meaning of "explanation" and "causal reasoning." and research strategies designed to make valid causal inferences. The course overview experimental design, measurement, hypothesis formulation and testing, and the display of information, using substantive examples from two or more fields of political science for illustrative purposes. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: Sophomore standing

POL_SC 3000W: Introduction to Political Research - Writing Intensive

POL_SC 3164: Nation Building through a Barrel of a Gun

This course was developed to provide students the opportunity to examine the dilemmas of military intervention, nation-building/peacekeeping operations and exit strategies. This course is designed to challenge students to think critically and arrive at their own conclusions about the use of military power to settle differences between nations, and use of military forces to conduct nation building.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 3165: "Chasing Ghost", The History of Irregular Warfare

This course explores the history of irregular warfare from the guerrilla perspective. The course examines the works of Mau Tse-Tung, Che Guevara, T.E. Lawrence and several other guerrilla leaders. You will analyze the evolution of irregular warfare through history and understand the complexities associated with the difficulties of countering and defeating irregular warfare. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4000: Introductory Statistics for Political Science

Basic course in applied statistics and inference using extensive examples from voting behavior, congressional behavior, international relations and public policy. Topics included nonparametric measures, probability, and rudimentary hypothesis testing; computer applications with political data using SAS. Math Reasoning Proficiency Course.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: MATH 1100 or MATH 1120 or equivalent, concurrent enrollment in POL_SC 4010

POL_SC 4004: Topics in Political Science - Social Science

Organized study of selected topics. Subjects and earnable credit vary from semester to semester.

Credit Hour: 1-99

POL_SC 4004H: Topics in Political Science - Social Science - Honors

Organized study of selected topics. Subjects and earnable credit vary from semester to semester.

Credit Hour: 1-99
Prerequisites: Honors eligibility required

POL_SC 4004W: Topics in Political Science - Social Science - Writing Intensive

Organized study of selected topics. Subjects and earnable credit vary from semester to semester

Credit Hour: 1-99

POL_SC 4010: Computing Methods

(cross-leveled with POL_SC 7010). Develops computer-based skills with political science data. SAS, and other packages used in mainframe and PC environments. Graded on S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1
Prerequisites: concurrent enrollment in POL_SC 4000

POL_SC 4100: Political Parties and Election Campaigns

Development, organization, functions, activities of major and minor political parties; principles and procedures of managing campaigns; campaign finance; election administration.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4110: Political Behavior

Economic, psychological, and social dimensions of political behavior; participation, leadership and elites; political attitudes; voting behavior and decision-making processes.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4120: Politics and the Media

The role and importance of mass media in the political process, primarily the U. S. Constitutional protections of the press, politics of media control, political news and advertising, effects of information on election campaigns, political institutions, and policymaking.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: May be restricted to majors only during Early Registration

POL_SC 4120W: Politics and the Media - Writing Intensive

POL_SC 4130: African-American Politics

(same as BL_STU 4130). Surveys political participation of African-Americans in American politics. Analyzes their public lives in the context of elections, behavior of political organizations, social movements, parties, and level of government.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4131: Race and Politics

This course provides a selective survey of the vast literature on race and politics in the contemporary United States. Our purpose is to understand the complex relationship between racial and ethnic identity and political outcomes in the United States. As such, we will explore broad political science concepts in the context of racial and ethnic groups. We will focus on African Americans and Latino/as in this course, but where appropriate, we will look to Asian Americans and Native Americans.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4132: Race, Immigration, and Urban Politics

The global world is increasingly an urban world: about half of humanity lives in cities and this trend is expected to continue apace. In the United States, over 80 percent of people live in metropolitan regions. Urban areas present enormously complex opportunities and challenges, from the perceived failure of urban public schools, to seemingly intractable racial inequalities, to the integration of a new wave of immigrants, to affordable housing, to efficient public transportation. On the other hand, cities have long been heralded as places of opportunity, spaces of economic development, entrepreneurship, and multiculturalism. Under what conditions are urban spaces socially just, diverse, and prosperous? Under what conditions do they become spaces contested by different interest groups? Cities are the canvas upon which many of the most pressing social issues of our day are being constructed. This course will give students an interdisciplinary understanding and analysis of these urban social problems, by bridging the literature on urban politics with that on urban geography. The complexity of urban issues calls for diverse perspectives in order to imagine creative responses. Approaching the urban experience from qualitative and quantitative perspectives will help students address structural as well as individual solutions to the problems urban residents face.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4140: Congress and Legislative Policy

Study of national and state legislative systems and legislative policy making, with emphasis on Congress.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4141: The History of American Legislatures

This course is designed to acquaint students with the history of American legislatures from the colonial period to the present.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4150: The American Presidency

Evolution of the presidency; particular emphasis on constitutional and political roles played by chief executive in shaping public policy.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4150W: The American Presidency - Writing Intensive

Evolution of the presidency; particular emphasis on constitutional and political roles played by chief executive in shaping public policy.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4160: Interest Groups

Development, organization, functions, activities, internal politics of special interest groups such as business, labor, agricultural and public interest groups; lobbying and techniques for influencing public policy in the American political system.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4160W: Interest Groups - Writing Intensive

POL_SC 4170: Politics of the American South

This course focuses on the politics of the American South in the latter part of the 20th century and the early years of the current millennium. For undergraduate credit only.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4180: Politics and Hollywood

This course examines the impact of entertainment media on politicians, the public, and politics in the United States. We will examine the worlds of film, television, and celebrity involvement in politics.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4180W: Politics and Hollywood - Writing Intensive

POL_SC 4190: Elections and Democracy in the United States

This is a class on United States election processes and their relationship to democratic governance. By election processes I mean the rules and procedures under which elections are contested. These include franchise, balloting methods, vote aggregation rules, apportionment, districting and related subjects. The class does not engage public opinion, partisanship, voter choice and other subjects typically classified as political behaviors. Elections are a means to an end; that end is normatively defensible democratic governance. Consequently, we discuss these subjects in the context of American democratic thought and ideals. Election processes can either contribute towards our democratic goals and aspirations or detract from them. More precisely, different election methods privilege different democratic values. To understand whether United States elections work well or poorly one must understand the democratic ideals that have most deeply influenced the American experience. We study election processes from a historical development perspective informed by political thought. However, our assessment of United States elections is deeply informed by contemporary theory and empirical analysis.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4200: The American Constitution

Leading American constitutional principles as they have evolved through important decisions of the United States Supreme Court.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4200W: The American Constitution - Writing Intensive

Leading American constitutional principles as they have evolved through important decisions of the United States Supreme Court.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4210: Constitutional Rights

Survey of Supreme Court cases involving the Constitution's protections for life, liberty, and property and guarantee of equal protection of the law.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4210W: Constitutional Rights - Writing Intensive

POL_SC 4220: The United States Supreme Court

Role of Supreme Court in American system of government; particular attention given to reading biographies and writings of the Justices.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4220W: The United States Supreme Court - Writing Intensive

Role of Supreme Court in American system of government; particular attention given to reading biographies and writings of the Justices.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4230: Constitution and Civil Liberties

Civil liberties in the American constitutional context emphasizing freedom of expression (religion, speech, press, assembly), rights of accused and right to privacy.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4231: Constitutional Litigation

(same as CNST_DEM 4231). This course will explore federal constitutional adjudication from the viewpoint of a law clerk to a justice of the United States Supreme Court. We will look to the founding era and the constitutional contours of the federal courts set out in Article III and explore how that framework gave rise to judicial review today. We will also examine more modern constitutional litigation concepts such as how the Supreme Court chooses its docket (the certiorari process), the role played by law clerks, the brief writing and oral argument processes, the way the Court goes about deciding cases, and contemporary issues facing the Court.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4310: Comparative State Politics

Analyzes similarities and differences of state politics and the ways in which such politics are shaped by political and socioeconomic environments of the states.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4320: Public Policy

Introduction to the study of public policy in the United States. Analyzes public policy choices at the national, state and local level and the variety of forces which serve to shape policy decisions.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4320W: Public Policy - Writing Intensive

POL_SC 4370: Law, Policy, and Regulation

Off in the quiet corners of the policy process, public servants distribute public benefits, write rules that have the force of law, adjudicate conflicts and selectively enforce the law. Frequently the government delegates these tasks to non-profit organizations. These public and quasi- public administrative organizations play, therefore, a critical role in the politics of who gets what, when and how - the essential question of public policy. Administrative organizations in the United States play this powerful role, however, within a constitutional democracy. This course focuses on policymaking through the administrative state and the relationship between the administrative state, democracy and the U.S. Constitution.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4370H: Law, Policy, and Regulation - Honors

POL_SC 4380: Politics of Criminal Justice

Course explores the political motivations for and the substantive consequences of state and federal criminal justice policy in the United States.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4390: United States Health Politics and Policy

This course deals with the politics and public policy of health in the United States. This topic is broader than you may think - when many Americans hear "health policy," they probably think first of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and other policies dealing with health insurance. There is no doubt that these issues are important and deserve our attention, they are just the tip of the iceberg of how politics and policy affect the health of the US population. In addition to issues of health insurance coverage, this course will cover topics ranging from the quality of medical care, to socioeconomic disparities in health outcomes, to substance abuse and addition, to gender and reproductive health, to the question of what counts as a "disease," and more. All of these issues are deeply political, whether you may realize it or not, and all present public policy challenges. In addition to building your subject matter knowledge, this course will help you to develop critical thinking and argumentation skills about public policy issues. It will also give you experience in conceiving and drafting a policy memo, a common format of written communication in the policy world.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4400: Theories of International Relations

Surveys Theories of International Relations. Analyzes conceptions of decision-making, foreign policy behavior and international society. Prerequisites: junior standing

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4410: Politics and War

(same as PEA_ST 4410). Why do wars occur? The functions of force and uses of a threat of force. Problems of national security strategy and arms control.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4411: Genocide, Terrorism and Civil War

This course explores the conditions that lead to the initiation, escalation and termination of civil wars as well as the causes and targets of terrorism and the effects of genocide.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4412: Strategy and Warfare

Examines strategic theory, traditional forms of warfare (on land, sea, and in the air), as well as irregular warfare and terrorism. Additional topics include weapons of mass destruction, deterrence, and technology.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4413: Politics of Cyber-Security

This course is an introduction to the politics of cyber-security. It will discuss what cyber-security is, from both a technical and political standpoint; examine the importance of cybersecurity for global economic activity and national security; and discuss current technical, political, and ethical debates over cyber-security topics. By the end of the semester, students will understand the technical basics and key political debates around major cyber-security topics; be familiar with a range of cases where cyber-security directly affected global commerce and international/national security; and be able to apply their knowledge to current events and professional environments.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4415: Peacekeeping and Intervention

This course will survey the causes and consequences of peacekeeping and intervention as well as assess the conditions that lead to successful and failed missions.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4420: Politics of International Economic Relations

Study of reciprocal interaction between global politics and economics. Includes politics of north/south relations, multinational non-state actors, arms transfers and dependency.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4420H: Politics of International Economic Relations - Honors

Study of reciprocal interaction between global politics and economics. Includes politics of north/south relations, multinational non-state actors, arms transfers and dependency.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: Honors eligibility required

POL_SC 4430: Global Human Rights

Human rights violations are widespread. The majority of of the world's citizenry lives with inadequate civil and political and economic, social, and cultural rights, often with dire consequences on economic and human security. What caused this situation? And, moreover, what can be done to fix it? This course focuses on the social scientific study of human rights. We will focus on scientific explanations of the rise of the human rights movement, political and economic explanations for human rights conditions, and the effects of advocacy efforts concerning human rights. After this class, you will have not only an understanding of the major players and factors influencing human rights, but a base understanding of the social scientific processes which govern human rights conditions and improvements. As such, this class is not a history class or a class on current events. Though current and historical events will be discussed, your grade will not depend on your rote memorization of these events. Instead, the focus will be on understanding the underlying interests of important actors towards human rights, the arenas in which these actors interact, and the rules which govern their interactions. This focus on the basic principles will provide you with a rich practical knowledge of human rights. At the conclusion of the course, you will be able to actively engage with the global human rights community.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4435: Nationalism and Democracy

This course will introduce you to the major questions and debates within nationalism studies, especially as they relate to democracy. What is a nation? How does a national community arise and why does it change? Why does nationalism sometimes produce violent protests and wars, and other times drive more development and constructive engagement with government? Is nationalism ultimately good or bad for democracy? We will explore such questions using the major theories and evidence from comparative politics about the causes and consequences of identity. By the end of the course, you should have a strong grasp of nationalism as a living, ever-shifting sociopolitical phenomenon and be able to discuss its powers and pitfalls, particularly in light of resurgence of nationalist policies across many democracies around the world.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4440: International Organization

Forms and functions of governmental (United Nations, European Union, NATO) and nongovernmental international organizations.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4540: American Foreign Policies

Bases, formulation, evaluation of current American foreign policies.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4540W: American Foreign Policies - Writing Intensive

Bases, formulation, evaluation of current American foreign policies.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4550: Environmental Conflict

This course introduces advanced undergraduate students to the linkages between the environment and conflict. This includes the use of natural resources to fund rebellion, the relationship between human-induced environmental stress and political violence, and competi- tion between states over resources. During the course students will develop a basic understanding of climate change science, conflict studies, and conflict management strategies employed by local, regional, and international actors.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4600: Latin American Politics

Development, present status of political institutions in South America; emphasizes current political problems.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4610: European Political Systems

Comparison of political cultures, institutions, and processes of Britain, France, West Germany, and selected smaller countries in Western Europe.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4630: The Politics of Modern Europe

The course is an introduction to the politics of modern Europe. Europe provides an ideal setting to explore the central concepts and debates of comparative politics in industrialized countries. The course introduces the wide variety of political institutions, political economics and cultures existing in contemporary Europe and probes the question how such discrepancies might affect political outcomes and the possibility to coordinate EU policy. Several central topics in comparative politics, including political parties, elections, the welfare state, civil society and corruption will be introduces with application to modern European democracies. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4640: African Politics

(same as BL_STU 4640). A general comparative course focusing on post-independent Africa. Theories and concepts related to decolonization, nationalism, democratization, and ethnicity; also institutional forms and organizations: political parties, parliaments, and executives.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4660: Canada in North America

This course focuses on the role of Canada in North America. The main topic areas include the evolution of Canada as a political system; political structures and processes; regionalism and social movements; political, economic and social connections with North America; and the future of Canada in North America.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4670: Policies and Institutions of the European Union

This course examines the politics, political actors, and institutions of the European Union from a comparative perspective. It questions whether we can view the EU as a federal democratic system similar to the U.S.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4680: Chinese Politics and Foreign Policy

This course is intended to introduce you to the history and analysis of Chinese politics and foreign policy since 1949. The course has two main goals. The first is that during the semester, you should learn the key historical events in Chinese political development and foreign policy. Second, you will examine these events and developments in light of major theories in comparative politics and international relations.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4690: Korean Politics: North and South Korea

(same as KOREAN 4690). This course is an introduction to the development of North and South Korea since 1945. By the end of the semester, students will 1) Know the key events and historical trends in the political development and foreign policy of the two Koreas 2) Be able to explain these developments using major theories in comparative politics and international relations We will focus on processes of continuity and change, both for the two political systems and for the everyday lives of individuals on both sides of the DMZ. We will explore the questions and topics covered in the course using historical, literary, and audiovisual materials.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4695: Understanding Korea Through Film

This course will familiarize students with major historical developments, substantive political issues, and theoretical debates in the study of Korea's twentieth-century history and politics. The course touches on issues such as the impact of colonialism, revolution, civil and international conflict, political economy and corruption, contemporary social issues, and authoritarian and democratic political development in both North and South Korea. The course pairs analytical and explanatory readings with weekly films - either documentary or non-documentary - to interrogate major social and political developments on the Korean peninsula since the start of the twentieth century.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4700: America's Wars in Asia/War and Peace in Asia

This course is an introduction to the causes and character of conflict in Asia, especially the conflicts that either have involved or could plausibly involve the United States of America. These conflicts often combine aspects of civil conflict with aspects of international politics, and one of the important themes of the course will be to look at Asia's conflicts through both of these lenses. In addition, we will examine America's foreign policy options and how it selected strategies to deal with these conflicts. By the end of the semester, students will 1) Be familiar with the key historical events and concepts related to conflict in East Asia 2) Be able to explain these developments using a range of major theories and conceptual lenses in comparative politics and international relations. The course will explore the questions and topics covered in the course using historical, literary, and audiovisual materials.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4710: Terrorism: Religious, Ethnic and Ideological Politics

Terrorism as political violence extending beyond the acts themselves. Examines major modern movements, e.g. Northern Ireland, Basques (Spain), Germany, Algeria, Arab-Israeli, Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4720: Politics of Development

(same as BL_STU 4720). Comparative, interdisciplinary analysis of the politics of developing countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Special attention given to the problems of political and socioeconomic development.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4730: Women and Politics

(same as WGST 4730). This course examines women's political participation and public policies towards women in countries around the world.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4750: Power and Money

This course provides an introduction to comparative political economy by focusing on the following questions. How and why do governments promote economic prosperity? Does democracy make people richer or poorer? Is it true that "money is power"? Can poor countries enjoy a stable democracy?

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4770: Comparative Political Behavior

Explores research questions related to cross-national differences and similarities in public opinion formation, political culture and values, voting behavior, and other forms of political participation. Violent forms of political participation are also considered. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4780: Dictatorship and Democracy

Why did the Arab Spring happen? Will China survive or collapse? Did North Korea's new dictator Kim Jong Un really execute his old girlfriend? Throughout history, the majority of the world's regimes have been dictatorships rather than democracies. This course is an introduction to the causes and character of contemporary authoritarian and democratic regimes: how and why they are created, why they survive, why people resist dictatorship or don't, and why regimes survive or fall. We will use academic articles, news stories, and films to study dictatorship and democracy. You will come away from this course with an understanding of the major theoretical debates about dictatorship and democracy, and how these debates apply to important countries and issues in the world today.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4790: The Age of Democratization?

Democracy has become a global norm. After repeated waves of democratization, democracy has now reached all corners of the world and spread far beyond the affluent West. How can we understand transitions to democracy and democratic stability? What is the relationship between democracy and development and what can America and other Western powers do to promote democracy abroad? Although democracy has been on the rise in the last decades we have also seen new challenges emerge. Many countries have adopted democratic facades hiding the persistent stability of authoritarianism. We have also seen the rise of China and Russia in world politics, creating a powerful counterweight to the previously dominant liberal order. How will this change affect the prospects for democratization in the future? These and other questions will be debated in this course as students will be introduced to central question, theories, and findings in comparative democratization.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4800: Classical Political Theory

(same as AMS 4800, CNST_DEM 4800; cross-leveled with AMS 7800). Great Greek, Roman, and Medieval political theorists on the relation of psychology, ethics, politics, and the best form of government.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4810: Modern Political Theory

(same as CNST_DEM 4810). Great political theorists from Machiavelli through Marx on the nation state, capitalism, liberalism, conservatism, and Marxism.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4820: Contemporary Political Theory

Great contemporary thinkers on Western vs. Eastern Marxism, existentialism, critical theory, political theologies, postmodernism, feminism, environmentalist ideologies, biological approaches to politics.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 4830: Democracy in America (and Elsewhere)

(same as CNST_DEM 4830). This course focuses on the dynamics of democracy. We will explore various topics in the history, development, and practice of democracy through an examination of the writings of Alexis de Tocqueville, one of the most insightful and prescient observers of American political culture.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4840: Developing Dynamics of Democracy

(same as POL_SC 4840). This course examines developments in the theory and practice of democracy from the ancient Greeks to the present. Beginning with the origins of democracy in the Hellenic city states, we consider the transformation of democratic concepts in the classical liberal period, review the development of democratic institutions in the United States and Europe, examine the emergence of supra-national democratic institutions such as the European Union, and assess the future of democratization in the 21st century.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4850: Scots and the Making of America

(same as CNST_DEM 4850). This class is on the influence of the Scottish Enlightenment on the founding of the United States. The Scottish Enlightenment refers to uniquely Scottish advances in social, political, scientific and literary thought that transpired in the 18th and early 19th centuries. This line of thought, especially in its social and political dimensions, was especially influential in shaping the founding of the United States.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100

POL_SC 4850H: Scots and the Making of America - Honors

This class is on the influence of the Scottish Enlightenment on the founding of the United States. The Scottish Enlightenment refers to uniquely Scottish advances in social, political, scientific and literary thought that transpired in the 18th and early 19th centuries. This line of thought, especially in its social and political dimensions, was especially influential in shaping the founding of the United States.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 1100, Honors eligibility required

POL_SC 4900: Beltway History and Politics: American Constitutional Democracy in Theory and Practice

(same as HIST 4900, CNST_DEM 4900). This course is an experiential overview of American political history for students on the Kinder Forum's Washington program, showing how American constitutional democracy was developed and implemented right here on the Potomac, as much as possible in the actual places where the events occurred. Emphasis will be placed on interplay between constitutional theory and actual political experience over time, and the tensions and institutional changes that emerged as Americans and their government coped with cataclysmic social changes, unparalleled economic development, and fearsome international challenges.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: This course is limited to students participating in the Kinder Scholars Washington D.C. Internship program

POL_SC 4940: Political Science Internship

Work experience in a public or private organization that is relevant to the political science major coordinated by a faculty member.

Credit Hour: 3-6
Prerequisites: junior standing with a 3.0 GPA; or senior standing with 2.67 GPA. Must be in good standing

POL_SC 4975: Journal on Constitutional Democracy

(same as HIST 4975, CNST_DEM 4975). The journal is sponsored by the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy and staffed by current former participants in the institute's undergraduate Society of Fellows program. Each volume of the journal is organized around a student-selected idea or era central to the historical development and philosophical foundations of constitutional democracy in the United States. Student-authored essays address this theme via arguments and historical overviews crafted from the close reading and analysis of primary source documents, with the exception being that participating in the journal will relate back to and advance students' study of American political thought and history.

Credit Hour: 1-3

POL_SC 4975H: Journal on Constitutional Democracy - Honors

(same as HIST 4975H, CNST_DEM 4975H). The journal is sponsored by the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy and staffed by current former participants in the institute's undergraduate Society of Fellows program. Each volume of the journal is organized around a student-selected idea or era central to the historical development and philosophical foundations of constitutional democracy in the United States. Student-authored essays address this theme via arguments and historical overviews crafted from the close reading and analysis of primary source documents, with the exception being that participating in the journal will relate back to and advance students' study of American political thought and history.

Credit Hour: 1-3
Prerequisites: Honors eligibility required

POL_SC 4985: Problems in Political Science

Independent investigation to meet needs of the individual student.

Credit Hour: 1-99
Prerequisites: instructor's consent

POL_SC 4986: Special Readings in Political Science

Independent readings selected in consultation with supervisory faculty member.

Credit Hour: 1-99
Prerequisites: instructor's consent

POL_SC 4996: Political Science Capstone, Honors

Special readings, reports in the several fields of political science. For political science Honors students.

Credit Hour: 1-6
Prerequisites: senior standing. Honors eligibility required

POL_SC 7000: Introductory Statistics for Political Science

Basic course in applied statistics and inference using extensive examples from voting behavior, congressional behavior, international relations and public policy. Topics included nonparametric measures, probability, and rudimentary hypothesis testing; computer applications with political data using SAS.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: MATH 1100 or MATH 1120 or equivalent
Corequisites: POL_SC 4010

POL_SC 7010: Computing Methods

(cross-leveled with POL_SC 4010). Develops computer-based skills with political science data. SAS, and other packages used in mainframe and PC environments. Graded on S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1
Prerequisites: concurrent enrollment in POL_SC 4000

POL_SC 7085: Problems in Political Science

Individual study in one of the fields of Political Science.

Credit Hour: 1-99
Prerequisites: instructor's consent

POL_SC 7412: Strategy and Warfare

Covers strategy - the plans through which states try to use military force to accomplish political aims - and warfare - the actual employment of military force. Surveys strategic theory, traditional forms of warfare (on land, sea, and air), and additional topics. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7413: Politics of Cyber Security

This course examines the various roles and responsibilities of state and non-state actors when it comes to securing the cyber space, as well as the components of cyber space, types of cyber threats, cyber social structure, governance of cyber space, and how digital technologies have reshaped the understanding of interactions between individuals, communities, states, and societies. The purpose of this course to provide students with critical factual and analytical elements that should contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of this new field of study. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7415: Peacekeeping and Intervention

Introduces students to the scientific study of conflict management and peacekeeping. Topics include the causes of intrastate conflict, the process by which peace agreements are reached (or not), and what steps can be taken to promote lasting peace in war-torn societies.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7500: Insurgency and Counterinsurgency

Why do insurgent movements emerge and end? How do they fight? How do governments and foreign armies respond? This course will address these questions from different perspectives and in different historical and geographic contexts. The course will examine theories and concepts of insurgency and counterinsurgency, as well as strategies and tactics of each. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7510: Intelligence and National Security

This course examines the role of intelligence in the formulation and execution of national security policy. It will include a detailed look at challenges facing both the analysis of intelligence information and the introduction of that analysis into the national security policy process. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7520: Deterrence and Nuclear Weapons

This course examines deterrence theory and the role of nuclear weapons in US and international security. In addition to familiarizing students with the types and effects of nuclear arms, the course considers several topics, including the history and future of nuclear strategy, the control and reduction of nuclear weapons, and the dilemmas of nuclear proliferation. Graded on a-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7540: American Foreign Policies

Focuses on the challenges and opportunities for American foreign policy in the contemporary era, enhances students' capacity to evaluate competing theories and arguments about US foreign policy, and develops students' policy analysis skills. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7560: Military and Strategic Thought

This course examines the development of military and strategic thought by introducing students to the wisdom of great military thinkers and strategists of the past. Among the theorists this course addresses are Sun Tzu, Machiavelli, Clausewitz, Jomini, Mahan, Corbett, Douhet, Mitchell, Liddell Hart, and many more. Students will study these great thinkers order to gain an understanding of the nature and conduct of war at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7650: Middle East Politics

This course will examine politics and society in the Middle East region from religious, historical, geopolitical, and cultural perspectives. The objectives of this course are to understand the history and politics of the Middle East and to gain the ability to analyze the factors affecting the political developments in the region and how it affects today's world politics. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 7900: Topics in Strategic Studies

Organized study of selected topics in Strategic Studies. Subjects vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 8085: MA Research in Political Science--Non-Thesis

Independent research not leading to a thesis. Graded on S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1-99
Prerequisites: instructor's consent

POL_SC 8090: MA Research in Political Science--Thesis

Independent research leading to thesis. Graded on S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1-99

POL_SC 8400: International Relations Theory

Introduces students to major concepts and theories of international relations. Topics include structural, psychological, rational choice, and related approaches to the study of international politics.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 8430: Economics and National Security

This course is designed to provide the students a familiarity with the field of international political economy, focusing on economic concepts, actors, and processes that have implications for national security. Topics include economic development, international trade, foreign direct investment, the international monetary system, and economic sanctions. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 8450: International Conflict

Analyzes important theories regarding the causes of international conflict and war. Specific topics include the bargaining model of war, contiguity, power, alliances, regime type, and deterrence.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 8470: Understanding Civil War

Covers the onset, dynamics, and legacies of violence. Explores many of the conceptual debates surrounding civil war, such as defining "civil war" and whether or not it should be studied as being a distinct form of political violence.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 8550: Strategic Studies

The purpose of this course is to analyze important theories regarding strategic studies. We will explore what makes the militaries of some states highly proficient fighting machines, whereas others seemingly cannot execute the simplest tasks. Beginning with an overview of military history to provide important background, the course covers topics explaining war outcomes and military effectiveness, such as military strategy, regime type, and civil-military relations. Additional topics may be considered. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 8560: Military Innovation in Peace and War

Examines innovation in military technology and doctrine, including topics such as innovation in mechanized warfare, carrier warfare, nuclear weapons, and counterinsurgency.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9005: Professional Development in Political Science

The purpose of this course is to familiarize doctoral students with the expectations of the discipline and requirements for success as a professional political scientist, in graduate training and afterward. It is designed to complement and contribute to but not directly overlap with other courses offered in the Department. Graded on S/U basis only

Credit Hour: 1

POL_SC 9010: Research Design and Analysis

Research design, social measurement and statistical analysis for study of political phenomena.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9030: Linear Models in Politics

Linear and non-linear multivariate estimation techniques with applications to political science research.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9040: Advanced Political Methodology

Analytic strategies and statistical models applicable to social science research. Emphasis on modeling political phenomena. Topics vary, include linear and nonlinear models, multidimensional scaling.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9050: Introduction to Formal Political Theory

Formal and mathematical models of political institutions and behavior. Topics may include social choice, game theory, spatial models, coalition formation.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9070: Research Design and Qualitative Methods

Seminar on research design for qualitative research in political science. Topics include case-study, archival, multi-method, and field research and other qualitative methods.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9085: Problems in Political Science

For graduate students with necessary prerequisite courses. Topics in one of the fields of political science for individual study. Some sections may be offered either on A-F or S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1-99

POL_SC 9090: Ph D Research in Political Science

Independent research leading to thesis. Graded on a S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1-99

POL_SC 9100: American Political Behavior

Critical examination of literature on political behavior in the United States. Topics include voting and elections, public opinion, parties and interest groups, political psychology, communication, elites, and collective action.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9120: Voting and Elections

Research seminar on political participation, voter choice, campaigns, and elections, primarily in the United States. Covers theories, approaches and research on electoral behavior.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9140: American Political Institutions

Critical examination of literature on political institutions in the United States. Topics include Congress, the Presidency, courts, the bureaucracy, political organizations, federalism, and institutional dynamics.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9145: American State Politics

Research seminar on state government and politics in the U.S. Topics include state culture, mass politics, elections, state executives, legislatures, courts, and public policy.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9150: Political Parties

Research seminar on the organization and activities of political parties, primarily in the United States. Attention to historical development, nature of party change, functions, elites, membership, political finance, and policy formulation.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9160: Interest Groups

Research seminar on nonpartisan organizations seeking to influence the public policy agenda. Includes problems of collective action, mobilization and organization of interest groups, strategies and tactics, lobbying, political movements, theories and research.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9170: Legislative Institutions

Research seminar on the U.S. Congress and legislative institutions generally. Topics include the legislative process, policy change, committees, political parties, leadership, representation, and relations with other branches of government.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9175: Evolution of American Legislatures, 1619 to the Present

Examination of the organizational evolution of American legislatures from the colonial era to the present.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9180: Executive Politics

Research seminar on the U.S. Presidency, executive decision-making and influence. Topics include presidential leadership, historical development of the presidency, presidential power, agenda-setting, governors, mayors, and influences on opinion and other branches of government.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9190: Research in American Politics

Directed research into one or more specific aspects of American Politics, behavior, and institutions.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9210: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties

Research seminar on the U.S. Constitution, civil liberties, and civil rights. Topics include the First Amendment and freedom of expression and of belief, due process, the rights of the accused, privacy, equal protection, and constitutional interpretation. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9220: Constitutional Law: Institutions and Powers

Research seminar on powers and constraints on government found in the U.S. Constitution. Topics include separation of powers, federalism, legislative and presidential power, the commerce clause, taxing and spending.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9230: Public Law

Research seminar on the judicial process in the United States.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9240: Racial and Ethnic Politics

Theories, institutional processes, and behaviors pertaining to social defined racial and ethnic groups. Topics include social dominance, representation, mobilization, public opinion, and the influence of racial and ethnic factors on the American political process.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9310: Public Policy

Covers the basic theory, approaches, problems and issues relating to the scope, development and implementation of public policy.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9320: Administrative Politics

Critical examination of literature relating to selected topics in public bureaucracies.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9330: Research in Policy and Administration

Contemporary research in public policy, bureaucratic politics, public management and administration.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9400: Introduction to International Relations

Analysis, evaluation of some basic theories which attempt to explain international affairs.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9430: International Political Economy

Theories of political economy and current problems such as North-South relations, international trade, monetary relations, aid regimes, and international divisions of labor.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9440: Foreign Policy Analysis

Research seminar assessing foreign policy decisions and outcomes with particular attention given to decision-making. Both theoretical and empirical methods for testing foreign policy are considered. Approaches include domestic politics, bureaucratic, and psychological models.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9450: International Conflict

This is an advanced seminar in international conflict. The range of material that might be included is vast, so an effort will be made to balance overall coverage with the need to look in more depth at some especially salient areas in the literature. The seminar unfolds in five parts.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9460: Coercive Diplomacy

Research seminar on how nations apply political and economic sanctions on other nations in order to compel or entice changes in foreign policy and/or government behavior. How threats (short of conflict) and incentives govern international relations.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9470: Theories of Civil War

Seminar on why groups may engage in violence against the state or other opposition groups. Topics include causes of civil wars, terrorism as a strategy of violence and possible solutions including third part security, partition, intervention, power sharing and treaty design. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9480: Human Security

Seminar on cross-national civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. The determinants of human security issues and the efficacy and dynamics of efforts from intergovernmental organizations, foreign aid, peacekeeping, interventions, and treaties on human rights.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9490: Selected Themes in International Relations

Graduate seminar in International Relatons. Variable content. May be repeated for credit.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9550: Strategic Studies

This graduate seminar analyzes important theories regarding strategic studies. The course explores topics such as war outcomes, military effectiveness, military history, military strategy, civil-military relations, counterinsurgency, military innovation, and air warfare. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9600: Introduction to Comparative Politics

Study of theories and approaches to comparative politics in Europe, Asia and/or Latin America.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9610: Latin American Politics

Research seminar on politics and government in Central and South America. Topics include modernization and dependency theories, civil-military relations, economics adjustment, democratic transitions, and area and country studies.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9645: China and Political Science Research

This is a graduate-level seminar on Chinese politics and foreign policy since 1949 covering the key historical events in Chinese political development and foreign policy. These events and developments will be examined in light of major theories in and methodological approaches adopted by the subfields of comparative politics and international relations, with the goal of exploring the strengths and weaknesses of alternative perspectives. At the end of the course, students should be familiar with the key debates and questions in the study of Chinese politics and foreign policy, and have a better sense of how to research questions on these topics. The course is also intended to encourage a dialogue between the study of China and the broader fields of comparative politics and international relations. Thus by the end of the course, students should have a sense not only for how the study of Chinese politics and foreign policy applies broader CP/IR theories to explain key patterns and events in China, but also gain insight into the question of what China as a case (or cases) can contribute back to major theories and debates in these fields.

Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: POL_SC 9600

POL_SC 9690: Democracy and Dictatorship

Research seminar on comparative politics of authoritarian and democratic regimes. Topics include characteristics and durability of authoritarianism, political institutions under autocracy, tactics of rule, state-society relations, transition and breakdown of regimes.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9700: Democratization

Research seminar on the third wave of democratization. Classical and contemporary conceptions of democracy, measurement, theories, trends, and influences on democratization across the globe.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9710: Comparative Political Economy

Interdisciplinary, comparative analysis of political aspects of political economy, rural development, and related issues.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9720: Comparative Political Institutions

Research seminar on comparative political institutions. Debates in comparative politics on the influence of rules and institutions on political decisions in developed democracies. Topics include political parties, legislatures, governments, and electoral rules.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9730: Comparative Elections and Voting Behavior

This is a graduate level seminar in comparative political behavior. We will discuss a variety of topics dealing with comparative political behavior, such as the formation of partisan identification, public opinion formation, the decision to vote, organize and protest, and how foreign and domestic policy influence elections. The readings will introduce you to the various methodological techniques--including case studies, quantitative analysis, and agent-based modeling--used to test the empirical expectations of these theories. The goal of this course is to provide a solid foundation upon which you can build for comprehensive examinations. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9760: Comparative Political Parties

This course will analyze cross-national differences in the size and nature of party systems in established democracies. Graded on A-F basis only.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9790: Seminar in Comparative Politics

Comparative study of selected aspects of political systems. Variable content. May be repeated for credit.

Credit Hours: 3

POL_SC 9901: Topics in Political Science

Organized study of selected topics. Subjects and earnable credit vary from semester to semester.

Credit Hour: 1-99

POL_SC 9970: Independent Readings for Ph.D. Comprehensive Examinations

Graded on S/U basis only.

Credit Hour: 1-9

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