Courses

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Syllabi from previous semesters are available in our Syllabus Library

Spring 2023 Courses

PS 104 - Introduction to American Politics and Government

Instructor: Kenneth Mayer (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 104

4 Credits

Basic institutions and processes of American government. The role of constitutional structures, parties, interest groups and elections in the system; policy formation and policy content.

Requisites	Not open to students who have taken POLI SCI 184 or POLI SCI 404
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 120 - Introduction to Comparative Politics

Instructor: Steven Brooke (TR 8:00-9:15am)

Syllabus: PS 120

4 Credits

Introduction to Comparative Politics, one of the four sub-fields in Political Science, which involves the comparative analysis of political institutions, processes, and outcomes at the national level. Examines how to usefully compare politics in a variety of countries and makes comparisons explicit and systematic in order to determine how governments work, how power is organized and contested at the national level, and how regular people can participate and pursue their interests in different political settings. Includes key concepts, theories, methods, issues, and language.

Requisites	Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 182 (or POLI SCI 186 prior to Fall 2017)
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 140 - Introduction to International Relations

Instructor: Mark Copelovitch (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 140

4 Credits

Covers the major issues in international relations since the end of World War II including: the causes of war; civil wars and ethnic conflict; economic development; international trade; exchange rates and international monetary relations; international capital flows and financial crises; foreign direct investment; globalization and the environment; the UN, the IMF, World Bank, WTO, and other international organizations; and international law and human rights. The focus is on states’ relations with each other and the factors determining the nature and outcomes of these international interactions. The course seeks to develop analytical tools for thinking about important questions in world politics regardless of the countries or issues involved, to examine international affairs in a systematic way. Students who have taken POLI SCI 103 prior to Fall 2017 may not enroll in this course.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 160 - Introduction to Political Theory

Instructor: Howard Schweber (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 160

4 Credits

Exploration of core problems of political life, such as the nature and limits of obligation, the concept of justice and its political implications, and the relationship between equality and liberty, through a selection of ancient and modern sources. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 209 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 170 - Research Methods in Political Science

Instructor: Jessica Weeks (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 170

4 Credits

Introduction to political science as a discipline that focuses on the development of research questions, research designs, and the quantitative and qualitative tools commonly used to implement research designs.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 182 - Introduction to Comparative Politics (Honors)

Instructor: Yoshiko Herrera (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 182

3 Credits

Introduction to Comparative Politics, one of the four sub-fields in Political Science, which involves the comparative analysis of political institutions, processes, and outcomes at the national level. Examines how to usefully compare politics in a variety of countries and makes comparisons explicit and systematic in order to determine how governments work, how power is organized and contested at the national level, and how people can participate and pursue their interests in different political settings. Includes key concepts, theories, methods, and country case studies.

Requisites	Declared in an Honors program. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 120
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 205 - Introduction to State Government

Instructor: Joel Clark (TR 11:00am-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 205

3 Credits

Basic institutions and processes of state government in the United States; the role of parties, pressure groups, and elections in the system; the policy process, its outputs and outcomes; the role of states in the federal system, and the diversity of state politics and policy.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 217 - Law, Politics and Society

Instructor: Rebecca Anderson (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 217

3 Credits

Introduction to the legal process. Examination of the various concepts of law, the perennial problems of the law, legal reasoning, and the nature and function of law and the courts.

Requisites	Freshman or sophomore standing only
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 253 - Russia: An Interdisciplinary Survey

Instructor: Irina Shevelenko (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 253

4 Credits

Comprehensive interdisciplinary survey of Russian civilization from its beginnings through the present day.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences / Humanities Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 255 - Introduction to East Asian Civilizations

Instructor: Viren Murthy (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 255

4 Credits

Multidisciplinary and historical perspectives on the East Asian civilizations of China, Japan, Korea, Tibet and Mongolia from prehistory to the present, including developments in philosophy, economy, governance, social structure, kinship, geography, etc.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences / Humanities Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 260 - Latin America: An Introduction

Instructor: Jo Melendezbadillo (TR 9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 260

4 Credits

Latin American culture and society from an interdisciplinary perspective; historical developments from pre-Columbian times to the present; political movements; economic problems; social change; ecology in tropical Latin America; legal systems; literature and the arts; cultural contrasts involving the US and Latin America; land reform; labor movements; capitalism, socialism, imperialism; mass media.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 272 - Introduction to Public Policy

Instructor: Joel Clark (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 272

3 Credits

Major issues of public policy in such fields as economic management, welfare, education, health, energy and the environment. How public problems develop, approaches to policy-making, why programs succeed and fail. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 219 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 274 - Political Choice and Strategy

Instructor: Jeremy Kedziora (MW 12:05-12:55pm)

Syllabus: PS 274

3 Credits

An introduction to decision analysis, strategic interaction, and voting systems and their manipulation. Examines a wide range of institutions for making social choices and the opportunities for the exercise of political strategy.

Requisites	Satisfied Quantitative Reasoning (QR) A requirement
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 277 - Africa: An Introductory Survey

Instructor: Matthew Brown (TR 11:00am-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 277

4 Credits

African society and culture, polity and economy in multidisciplinary perspectives from prehistory and ancient kingdoms through the colonial period to contemporary developments, including modern nationalism, economic development and changing social structure.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences / Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 302 - Mexican-American Politics

Instructor: Benjamin Marquez (TR 11:00am-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 302

3 Credits

This class examines the major problems and issues in Mexican-American politics since World War II. An emphasis will be placed on the ways in which race, class and culture have structured politics for the Mexican origin people. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 464 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 304 - The Political Economy of Race in the United States

Instructor: Benjamin Marquez (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 304

3 Credits

Race in relation to American economic development. Problems of racial minorities in the American political and economic system. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 462 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	POLI SCI 104, POLI SCI 184, POLI SCI/LEGAL ST 217, CHICLA 201, or AFROAMER 151
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 316 - Careers in Political Science

Instructor: Joel Clark (R 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 316

1 Credits

Facilitates transitions from undergraduate academic learning related to Political Science to meaningful and rewarding professional opportunities including jobs, paid internships, graduate study, and post-graduate fellowships. Building on core coursework in Political Science and related disciplines, addresses how to utilize existing academic learning and completed readings and assignments, extra-curricular activities, student research, for-pay work, internships, and interaction with alumni and other personal networks to further develop career options. Also provides practical ways to explore and pursue a wide range of career pathways related to Political Science. Develop essential professional development materials and self-promotional skills.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 324 - Chinese Politics

Instructor: Jingyuan Qian (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 324

3 Credits

Examine three questions about Chinese politics through a comparative perspective. First, what functions do formal institutions such as the political party, legislature, courts, and bureaucracy serve in an authoritarian regime? Second, what are the political forces that lay a good foundation for China to successfully transition from a planning economy to a robust market economy and sustain high-speed growth for more than four decades? Finally, how does the Chinese government deal with pressing social problems and threats to its authoritarian leadership in this new era?

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 340 - The European Union: Politics and Political Economy

Instructor: Nils Ringe (TR 8:00-9:15am)

Syllabus: PS 340

4 Credits

Introduction to the history and theory of European integration. Topics include the workings of EU institutions and law, the effect of the EU on national politics and economy, economic politics and policy-making in the EU, the EU as an actor in the world economy. Students who have taken POLI SCI 338 prior to Fall 2017 may not enroll in this course.

Requisites	POLI SCI 120, 140, 182, or INTL ST 101 (or POLI SCI 103, 106, or 186 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing.
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 343 - Theories of International Security

Instructor: Scot Mobley (4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 343

3 Credits

Role of alliances in contemporary and historical international political systems. Purpose of alliance formation; reasons for their dissolution; relationship of alliance activity with international war and with political integration. Role of alliances in future international systems. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 367 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 140 or INTL ST 101) or (POLI SCI 103 taken prior to Fall 2017)
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 356 - Principles of International Law

Instructor: Andrew McWard (MW 11:00-11:50am)

Syllabus: PS 356

3 Credits

A survey course that focuses on interactions among the primary entities in the international system; namely, states, inter- governmental and non-governmental organizations, and other international actors governed by international law. The study of international relations and international law is absolutely critical to understanding contemporary politics, both domestic and foreign. This course addresses both structural and substantive issues related to international law. In other words, it should provide basic tools for understanding the way in which international law works, as well as introduce substantive issues of interest to students of world politics. The course will place special emphasis on the role of international organizations in the international legal system, and special attention will be paid to the European Union as an international actor within this system of law. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 316 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 363 - Literature and Politics

Instructor: Noah Stengl (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 363

3 Credits

Interactions between literature and politics, and the role of literature more generally in the functioning of the political systems. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 570 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 373 - Introduction to Survey Research

Instructor: Eleanor Powell (MW 9:55-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 373

3 Credits

Theory and practice of survey research; planning, sampling, questionnaire construction, interviewing, content analysis, machine tabulation, analysis of data; two hours lecture; two hours lab or field work. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 544 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Research Methods
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (Politics of Climate Change and Energy Policy)

Instructor: Jiaqi Lu (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

3 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 401 - Selected Topics in Political Science (The Marshall Court and the Constitution)

Instructor: Ryan Owens (W 3:30-5:25pm)

Syllabus: PS 401

3 Credits

A topics course for the exploration of current issues in Political Science.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 401 - Selected Topics in Political Science (LGBTQ+ Politics in the World's Democracies)

Instructor: Shaan Amin (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 401

3 Credits

A topics course for the exploration of current issues in Political Science.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 401 - Selected Topics in Political Science (Representation in American Politics)

Instructor: Rochelle Snyder (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 401

3 Credits

A topics course for the exploration of current issues in Political Science.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 408 - The American Presidency

Instructor: David Canon (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 408

4 Credits

The President as chief administrative leader, political leader, foreign policy initiator, commander-in-chief, and head of state.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104 or 184)
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 412 - The American Constitution: Rights and Civil Liberties

Instructor: Howard Schweber (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 412

4 Credits

This course undertakes an historical examination of the development of American constitutional thinking about individual rights and civil liberties from the founding era to the present day. Issue that are considered include freedoms guaranteed by the original Articles, the Bill of Rights, and the Civil War Amendments (XIII, XIV, and XV) as these issues appear in constitutional law, constitutional politics, and social and economic developments. The role of the federal courts, the nature and operation of principles of federalism, and the authority of Congress to protect constitutionally guaranteed rights are also major topics of consideration.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104 or 184)
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 429 - Gender and Politics in Comparative Perspective

Instructor: Aili Tripp (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 429

3 Credits

Examines the gendered nature of political institutions around the world, including implications of women’s exclusions from public life in a global context; the obstacles to women’s greater participation; how women have gained greater voice in political leadership in some countries; and the differences women make in the political arena. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 643 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing; not open to special students
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 460 - Topics in Political Philosophy (Christian Political Thought)

Instructor: Ed Passos (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 460

3 Credits

Investigation at an advanced level of selected problems in political philosophy.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 160 or ILS 205) or (POLI SCI 209 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 461 - Interdisciplinary Seminar in Political Economy, Philosophy & Politics

Instructor: Timothy Tennyson (TR 11:00am-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 461

3 Credits

An interdisciplinary seminar focusing on current policy debates designed to incorporate concepts and approaches from philosophy, political science, and economics.

Requisites	Consent of instructor
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 463 - Deception and Politics

Instructor: Phillip Pinell (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 463

4 Credits

This course deals with deception and truth telling as matters of fundamental political concern. Writers ranging from Plato to John Rawls have grappled with the problem of deception and truth-telling in politics. Flattery, hypocrisy, lying as a matter of state, lying as a matter of policy: philosophical explorations of these and related phenomena are at the center of this course.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities or Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 470 - The First Amendment

Instructor: John Boersma (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 470

3 Credits

An examination of the basic principles, purposes, and assumptions of First Amendment cases and literature, with attention to both historical and contemporary controversies.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104, 184, or POLI SCI/LEGAL ST 217)
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 481 - Honors Seminar on Race and Politics in the United States

Instructor: David Canon (M 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 481

3 Credits

This course examines the sources and policy implications of racial division in American politics by analyzing a range of issues, such as affirmative action in the workplace and in higher education, the use of black majority districts as a means of enhancing representation of minority interests in Congress, differences in public opinion between whites and blacks, and issues concerning multi-racial and ethnic tensions. We will examine the historical background of race relations and the current policy debates, with a focus on trying to find common-ground solutions. The goal of this seminar is to stimulate critical thinking on this important issue, causing students to think about race and politics in new ways.

Requisites	Junior standing and declared in an Honors program
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 515 - Public Opinion

Instructor: Kathy Cramer (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 515

3 Credits

Formation of opinions within and among the political publics; their role in the development and practice of governmental policy. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 473 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 519 - African American Political Theory

Instructor: Keisha Lindsay (M 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 519

3 Credits

Explores a range of theories that African Americans have drawn upon to cope with and ameliorate their political circumstances in the United States within the specific parameters of political theory.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 160 or AFROAMER 151) or (POLI SCI 209 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate/professional standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 601 - Proseminar: Topics in Political Science (The Supreme Court's 2022 Term)

Instructor: Ryan Owens (W 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 601

3 Credits

Intensive study and research in selected problems within the constituent fields of political science.

Requisites	Consent of instructor
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities & Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	Yes

PS 601 - Proseminar: Topics in Political Science (Crisis Decision-Making in World Politics)

Instructor: Jonathan Renshon (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 601

3 Credits

Intensive study and research in selected problems within the constituent fields of political science.

Requisites	Consent of instructor
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities & Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	Yes

Fall 2022 Courses

PS 104 - Introduction to American Politics and Government

Instructor: David Canon (TR 1:00-2:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 104

4 Credits

Basic institutions and processes of American government. The role of constitutional structures, parties, interest groups and elections in the system; policy formation and policy content. Enroll Info: None

Requisites	Not open to students who have taken POLI SCI 184 or POLI SCI 404
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 120 - Introduction to Comparative Politics

Instructor: Nils Ringe (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 120

4 Credits

Requisites	Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 182 (or POLI SCI 186 prior to Fall 2017)
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 140 - Introduction to International Relations

Instructor: Jon Pevehouse (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 140

4 Credits

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 160 - Introduction to Political Theory

Instructor: Daniel Kapust (TR 9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 160

4 Credits

Requisites	Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 209 prior to fall 2017
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 170 - Research Methods in Political Science

Instructor: Jonathan Renshon (TR 9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 170

4 Credits

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Research Methods
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 201 - Special Topics in Political Science (Law & Disorder in Russia)

Instructor: Kathryn Hendley (TR 8:00-9:15am)

Syllabus: PS 201

3 Credits

An experimental topics course that introduces students to compelling recent events and to the current research of political scientists. This course can be repeated by students, but not with the same content.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	Yes

PS 231 - Politics in Multi-Cultural Societies

Instructor: Benjamin Marquez (MWF (9:55-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 231

4 Credits

Race, ethnicity, and religion as political factors; cultural pluralism, politics, and policy in the United States and selected other multi-cultural politics.

Requisites	Freshman or sophomore standing only
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 244 - Introduction to Southeast Asia: Vietnam to the Philippines

Instructor: Michael Cullinane (TR 9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 244

4 Credits

As an introduction to Southeast Asia, covers the ethnic, cultural, religious, and political histories of the region from the classical states period to the present, with an emphasis on colonialism, nationalism, decolonization, and the emergence of modern political and social systems into the 21st century, including an exposure to region’s contemporary literature. Not open to students who completed LCA 244 prior to Fall 2019.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities or Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 255 - Introduction to East Asian Civilizations

Instructor: Anatoly Detwyler (TR 9:55-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 255

3 Credits

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities or Social Science Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 270 - Understanding Political Numbers

Instructor: Jeremy Kedziora (MW (4:35-5:25pm)

Syllabus: PS 270

3 Credits

How numbers and statistics are used in electoral strategies, political debates and legal proceedings. Presents basic tools of analysis and how to use them. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 218 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Satisfied Quantitative Reasoning (QR) A requirement
Subfield Distribution	Research Methods
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 272 - Introduction to Public Policy

Instructor: Joel Clark (MW (2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 272

3 Credits

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 277 - Africa: An Introductory Survey

Instructor: Neil Kodesh (MW 9:55-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 277

4 Credits

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences or Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 305 - Elections and Voting Behavior

Instructor: Barry Burden (MW 4:35-5:25pm)

Syllabus: PS 305

3 Credits

Psychological and social components of voting behavior, current electoral trends, role of voters in the governing process. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 467 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 311 - United States Congress

Instructor: David Canon (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 311

4 Credits

Principles, procedures and problems of the legislative process of the United States Congress. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 426

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104, 184, or POLI SCI/LEGAL ST 217)
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 320 - Governments and Politics of the Middle East and North Africa

Instructor: Marwa Shalaby (T 3:30-5:25pm)

Syllabus: PS 320

4 Credits

An introduction to the most pertinent themes to the study of politics and governance in the Middle East. Main topics to be covered: political economy of the region; link between Islam, culture and democracy; the politics of authoritarianism; and political Islam.

Requisites	Sophomore standing, POLI SCI 104 or 140
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 329 - African Politics

Instructor: Aili Tripp (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 329

3 Credits

Process of rapid political change in contemporary Africa with special emphasis on the emergence of new states. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 660 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing and POLI SCI 120, 182, or POLI SCI/AFRICAN/AFROAMER/ANTHRO/GEOG/HISTORY/SOC 277 (or POLI SCI 106 or 186 taken prior to Fall 2017)
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 334 - Russian Politics

Instructor: Kathryn Hendley (TR 1:00-2:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 334

3 Credits

Theory and practice of Russian States, emphasis on politics, economic and institutional developments since 1991. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 633 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 338 - The Civil-Military Paradox in US Politics and Society

Instructor: Scott Mobley (TR 1:00-2:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 338

3 Credits

Protecting a democratic nation from foreign threats often requires that nation to create a powerful military. Yet the creation of a powerful military may undermine the democracy that it is designed to protect. How do, and how should, democracies manage the paradoxical relationship between civilian authority and military institutions. Explores civilian and military perspectives in U.S. civil-military relations; address issues such as the use of military advice by civilian leaders, military challenges to civil authority, and tensions generated by shared responsibility for national security between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Studies how civil-military relations impact wider American society by examining the garrison state hypothesis; debates centered upon the draft versus an all-volunteer force; issues of equity and inclusion; and current concerns regarding a civil-military “gap.”

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	American Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences or Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 348 - Analysis of International Relations

Instructor: Lisa Martin (TR 11:00-11:50am)

Syllabus: PS 348

3-4 Credits

Focuses on how to analyze problems in international politics by the use of game theory. Examples include governments making choices about the size of their military forces, barriers to trade, or international agreements on environmental issues. Analysts study strategic interaction using both informal and mathematical methods. Provides a good introduction to the basics of game theory — a tool useful in many different settings — as well as an introduction to the study of world politics. From the perspective of quantitative reasoning, one of the most important set of lessons center on the logic of strategic interaction and the notion of equilibrium. Along with basic game theory students will also be introduced to the pragmatic use of mathematical tools including algebra, set theory, functions, and probability theory. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 376 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Satisfied Quantitative Reasoning (QR) A requirement and (POLI SCI 140 or INTL ST 101) or (POLI SCI 103 taken prior to Fall 2017)
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 350 - International Political Economy

Instructor: Mark Copelovitch (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 350

4 Credits

Analyzes the interaction of politics and economics in the international arena, both historically and in the contemporary era of globalization. Focuses on international trade, monetary, and financial relations in both developed and developing economies. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 371 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 140 or INTL ST 101) or (POLI SCI 103 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 356 - Principles of International Law

Instructor: Andrew McWard (MW 9:55-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 356

3 Credits

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 359 - American Foreign Policy

Instructor: Jean Vilbert (TR 11:00-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 359

3 Credits

This course undertakes a historical and analytical approach to U.S. foreign policy since World War II. The course is divided into three main topics: U.S. Foreign Policy since World War II and the evolution of U.S. policy and the impetus behind important foreign policy choices; The people and institutions and processes that guide foreign policy formation and implementation; And the more salient foreign policy challenges facing the U.S. in the 21st century including how the US has responded to the attacks of September 11, 2001, the effectiveness of foreign aid policy.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104, 140, 184 or INTL ST 101) or (POLI SCI 103 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing
Subfield Distribution	U.S. Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 365 - Machiavelli and His World

Instructor: Kristi Phillips-Court (MW 11:00-11:50am)

Syllabus: PS 365

3 Credits

Introduces students to the major works of Machiavelli through the close reading of his writings in cultural and historical contexts. Discussion and targeted writing assignments will aim at cultivating in students 1) a broad understanding of Machiavelli’s principal intellectual attitudes, 2) a deeper understanding of his literary sensibility, and 3) the ability to articulate controversies and complexities surrounding his thought.

Requisites	Satisfied Communications A requirement
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Literature Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 370 - Islam and Politics

Instructor: Aaron Rock (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 370

4 Credits

In the early twentieth century, a series of movements arose in the Middle East and South Asia, calling Muslims to return to Islam. Today, leaders and members of such groups -now known as Islamists -insist that one cannot live a fully Islamic life in the absence of an Islamic state. How and why did these movements come to focus on building an Islamic state? How do they pursue this goal?

Requisites	Sophomore standing or 3 Credits in HISTORY or POLI SCI
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities or Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (Careers in Political Science)

Instructor: Joel Clark (R 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

1 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (Mock Trial)

Instructor: Howard Schweber (W 7:00-9:00pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

2 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (International Environmental Politics)

Instructor: Tana Johnson (T 3:30-5:25pmpm)

Syllabus: PS 400

3 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (Comparative Foreign Policy)

Instructor: Jessica Weeks (TR 9:30-10:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

3 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (The Private and Public Sectors in Policymaking)

Instructor: Tana Johnson (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

3 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (Russian Invasion of Ukraine and Its Consequences)

Instructor: Yoshiko Herrera (MW 1:20-2:10pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

3 Credits

An umbrella course for variable credit topic courses, such as summer forum, intensive summer courses, half-semester courses, etc.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	International Relations
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 401 - Selected Topics in Political Science (Humans, Animals and Machines)

Instructor: Joshua Dienstag (R 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 401

3 Credits

A topics course for the exploration of current issues in Political Science.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 405 - State Government and Public Policy

Instructor: Joel Clark (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 405

3 Credits

The structure of state government and the politics of public policy-making in the fifty states.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 408 - The American Presidency

Instructor: Kenneth Mayer (TR 11:00-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 408

4 Credits

The President as chief administrative leader, political leader, foreign policy initiator, commander-in-chief, and head of state.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104 or 184)
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 411 - The American Constitution: Powers and Structures of Government

Instructor: Howard Schweber (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 411

4 Credits

This course undertakes an historical examination of the development of American constitutional thinking about powers and structures of government from the founding era to the present day. Issue that are considered include separation of powers, executive war powers, the powers of Congress, judicial review and the role of courts, and federalism. The course focuses on the development of constitutional law, constitutional politics, and American political development.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104 or 184)
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 414 - The Supreme Court as a Political Institution

Instructor: Ryan Owens (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 414

3 Credits

This course uses a social science approach to analyze theories of judicial decision making and to learn how law is made in a political context. Students will understand how the Supreme Court and justices operate in an interdependent political environment.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104, 184, or POLI SCI/LEGAL ST 217)
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 416 - Community Power and Grass Roots Politics

Instructor: Benjamin Marquez (TR 11:00-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 416

3 Credits

Introduces students involved in volunteer or community activism in the Madison area to the literature on political power and community organizing. Conduct field research and write an analysis of activities.

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 460 - Topics in Political Philosophy (Environmental Political Thought)

Instructor: Noah Stengl (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 460

3 Credits

Investigation at an advanced level of selected problems in political philosophy.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 160 or ILS 205) or (POLI SCI 209 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 460 - Topics in Political Philosophy (Christian Political Thought)

Instructor: John Boersma (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 460

3 Credits

Investigation at an advanced level of selected problems in political philosophy.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 160 or ILS 205) or (POLI SCI 209 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 460 - Topics in Political Philosophy (Latin American Political Thought)

Instructor: Ed Passos (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 460

3 Credits

Investigation at an advanced level of selected problems in political philosophy.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 160 or ILS 205) or (POLI SCI 209 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 461 - Interdisciplinary Seminar in Political Economy, Philosophy, and Politics

Instructor: Michelle Schwarze (TR 11:00-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 461

3 Credits

An interdisciplinary seminar focusing on current policy debates designed to incorporate concepts and approaches from philosophy, political science, and economics.

Requisites	Consent of instructor
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 463 - Deception and Politics

Instructor: Kirstin Anderson (9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 463

4 Credits

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Humanities or Social Sciences Level- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 511 - Campaign Finance

Instructor: Kenneth Mayer (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 511

4 Credits

Examination of campaign finance, including: the philosophical rationale behind campaign finance regulations, the history of regulatory frameworks, the influence of campaign contributions on decision making, campaign finance laws in other countries, and reform proposals. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 466 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104, 184, or POLI SCI/LEGAL ST 217)
Subfield Distribution	US Government
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 601 - Proseminar: Topics in Political Science (Social Contract Theory)

Instructor: Michelle Schwarze (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 601

3 Credits

Intensive study and research in selected problems within the constituent fields of political science.

Requisites	Consent of instructor
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 601 - Proseminar: Topics in Political Science (Democratic Theory)

Instructor: Howard Schweber (T 3:30-5:35pm)

Syllabus: PS 601

3 Credits

Intensive study and research in selected problems within the constituent fields of political science.

Requisites	Consent of instructor
Subfield Distribution	Political Theory
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences Level- Advanced L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No