Courses

Course Search & Enroll

One way to identify classes of interest is by looking at past syllabi. Syllabi from previous semesters are available in our Syllabus Library.

Spring 2024 Courses

PS 104 - Introduction to American Politics and Government

Instructor: (MW 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: Nils Ringe (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

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: Andrew Kydd (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: Michelle Schwarze (TR 9:30-10:45am)

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: Thomas Worth (TR 3:30-4:20pm)

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 201 - Special Topics in PS (Hearing Public Opinion)

Instructor: Katherine Cramer (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 201

3 Credits

An experimental topics course that introduces students to compelling recent events and to the current research of political scientists.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences / Humanities Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	This course can be repeated by students, but not with the same content.

PS 201 - Special Topics in PS (Ecological Restoration as Civic Engagement)

Instructor: John Zumbrunnen (W 2:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 201

3 Credits

An experimental topics course that introduces students to compelling recent events and to the current research of political scientists.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Social Sciences / Humanities Level- Elementary L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	This course can be repeated by students, but not with the same content.

PS 254 - Eastern Europe: An Interdisciplinary Survey

Instructor: David Danaher (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 253

4 Credits

Comprehensive interdisciplinary survey of East European culture, society, politics, and literature from its beginnings to the present day.

Requisites	None
Subfield Distribution
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 2:30-3:45pm)

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: (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) or (TR 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 277 - Africa: An Introductory Survey

Instructor:Jacqueline-Bethel (TR 9:30-10:45)

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 1:00-2:15pm)

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 314 - Criminal Law and Justice

Instructor: Tatiana Paula da C (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 314

3 Credits

Substantive and procedural aspects of criminal law, including the purposes of criminal justice, specific crimes, criminal responsibility and punishment, legal concepts of proof, and 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendment issues. The case approach is used. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 452 prior to fall 2017.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and a course in POLI SCI or SOC
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 315 - Legislative Internship

Instructor: Amy Gangl (Online)

Syllabus: PS 415

3 Credits

Practical experience in a legislative office. Policy research. Readings in legislative process.

PS 316 - Careers in Political Science

Instructor: Amy Gangl (W 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 320 - Governments and Politics of the Middle East and North Africa

Instructor: Steven Brooke (TR 9:30-10:45am)

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.

PS 339 - Non-Democracies

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

Syllabus: PS 339

3 Credits

Requisites	Sophomore standing, POLI SCI 104 or 140
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 340 - The European Union: Politics and Political Economy

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

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 (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 343

4 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 344 - The Russian War On Ukraine: Causes and Consequences

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

Syllabus: PS 344

3 Credits

Examines causes and consequences of the Russian invasion and war on Ukraine. Analyzes the war using concepts in comparative politics (e.g., regime type, national identity, and domestic politics in Ukraine and Russia) and international relations (e.g., international security, institutions and norms, sanctions and trade, migration and human rights).

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth- Social SciencesLevel- 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 (MW 11:00-11:50am)

Syllabus: PS 348

3 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
Course Designation	Breadth- Social SciencesLevel- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 350 - International Political Economy

Instructor: Allison Myren (TR 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 354 - International Institutions and World Order

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

Syllabus: PS 354

3 Credits

The study of international cooperation and the analysis of regional, functional, and universal regimes and institutions. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 337 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: Joorahm Kim (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

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 362 - Athenian Democracy

Instructor: Claire Taylor (MWF 9:55-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 362

3 Credits

Explores key issues in the ideology and practice of Athenian democracy. Examines democratic values, institutions, rhetoric, and sociology in order to provide the basic tools to understand democracy in its ancient context. Engages with a variety of source material (literary, archaeological, epigraphic) in order to develop multiple skills of interpretation. Some questions examined include: What are the key features of Athenian democracy, how did it change over time, and how did it differ from modern democracy? How did the Athenians justify and critique this political system? How did they reconcile citizen egalitarianism with social inequalities of wealth, gender, and status? To what extent were women, foreigners, slaves, or the poor included or excluded from politics? Was Athenian democracy a robust political system or a system in crisis?

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: Aleisha Lachette (TR 11:00am-12:15pm)

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	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 373 - Introduction to Survey Research

Instructor: Eleanor Powell (MW 2:25-3:15pm)

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 377 - Nuclear Weapons and World Politics

Instructor: Mikhail Troitskiy (TR 1:00-2:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 377

3 Credits

Covers the origins of nuclear weapons, the reasons states seek them, the strategies developed for their use, the consequences of their development, and efforts to control and reverse their spread.

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 SciencesLevel- 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 (Legal Writing, from Counselor to Advocate)

Instructor: Dustin Brown (TR 9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 401

3 Credits

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

Requisites	Sophomore standing
Subfield Distribution
Course Designation	Breadth- Social SciencesLevel- 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 (Election Administration)

Instructor: Kenneth Mayer (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
Course Designation	Breadth- Social SciencesLevel- Intermediate L&S Credit- Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 405 - State Government and Public Polciy

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

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	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 408 - The American Presidency

Instructor: Kenneth Mayer (TR 11:00am-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	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 435 - Politics of Gender and Women's Rights in the Middle East

Instructor: Marwa Shalaby (W 3:30-5:25pm) or (R 3:30-5:25pm)

Syllabus: PS 435

3 Credits

Explores the intertwined relationship between gender and politics in contemporary Middle East and North Africa. Situates the region’s historical, socio-political, and cultural context that have particularly contributed to shaping the current discourse on gender in the Arab World. Explores – both theoretically and empirically – the role of Arab women in influencing the political processes across the Middle East. Examines real-world examples of Middle Eastern women from different parts of the region who have succeeded to challenge the status quo and push for genuine change.

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 Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

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

Instructor: Richard Avramenk (M 2:25-5:25pm)

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 9:30-10:45am)

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: Daniel Kapust (TR 1:00-2:15pm)

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: Craig Fischer (MW 5:00-6:15pm)

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: Benjamin Marquez (W 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 529 - Arab-Israeli Conflict

Instructor: Nadav Shelef (W 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 529

3 Credits

Examines the political, social, and economic aspects of the evolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict over time, and the theoretical and policy issues it raises. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 631 prior to fall 2017

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (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	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth – Social Science Level – Advanced L&S Credit – Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 601 - Proseminar: Topics in Political Science (The Supreme Court's 2023 Term)

Instructor: Ryan Owens (M 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 (Election Reform in America)

Instructor: Barry Burden (M 3:30-5:25pm)

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 684 - Senior Honors Thesis Seminar

Instructor: Amy Gangl (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 684

3 Credits

A class for honors students writing their senior honors thesis within a seminar format. Focus is on conceptualization, research design, writing of the thesis, and relevant issues of political science. Only senior majors writing honor thesis.

Requisites	Junior standing and declared in an Honors program
Subfield Distribution	Thesis
Course Designation	Level – Advanced L&S Credit – Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S Honors – Honors Only Courses (H)
Repeatable for Credit	No

Fall 2023 Courses

PS 104 - Introduction to American Politics and Government

Instructor: Kenneth Mayer (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: Steven Brooke (TR 8:00-9:15pm)

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: Joshua Dienstag (TR 2:30-3:45pm)

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: Jessica Weeks (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

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 182 — Introduction to Comparative Politics (Honors)

Instructor: Yoshiko Herrera (M 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 Science Level – Elementary L&S Credit – Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S Honors – Honors Only Courses (H)
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 205 - Introduction to State Government

Instructor: Luke Fuszard (MF 8:00-9:15am)

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 Science Level – Intermediate L&S Credit – Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 206 — Introduction to Political Psychology

Instructor: Amy Gangl (TR 11:00am-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 206

3 Credits

Examines the psychological aspects of the political behavior of individuals–whether elites, activists or members of general publics–and their consequent political behaviors in various groups and institutional contexts. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 267 prior to fall 2017.

Requisites	None
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 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 272 - Introduction to Public Policy

Instructor: Joel Clark (TR (11:00am-12:15pm OR 4:00-5:15pm)

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 274 — Political Choice and Strategy

Instructor: Dave Weimer (TR (9:30am-10:45am)

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	American Government
Course Designation	Gen Ed – Quantitative Reasoning Part B Breadth – Social Science 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 302 — Mexican-American Politics

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

Syllabus: PS 302

3 Credits

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 Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 306 – American Political Parties

Instructor: Barry Burden (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 306

4 Credits

Examination of the electoral, organizational, and governmental roles of political parties at the national and state levels in the U.S. Emphasis on changes in response to historical and contemporary circumstances.

Requisites	PS 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 311 - United States Congress

Instructor: David Canon (MW 9:30-10:45am)

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 314 — Criminal Law and Justice

Instructor: Rebecca Anderson (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 314

3 Credits

Requisites	Sophomore standing and a course in POLI SCI or SOC
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 316 — Careers in Political Science

Instructor: Amy Gangl (W 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 316

1 Credits

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: Reed Lei (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

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 329 - African Politics

Instructor: Aili Tripp (MW 4:00-5:15pm)

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

Instructor: Scott Mobley (TR 9:30-10:45am)

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 341 — Israeli Politics and Society

Instructor: Nadav Shelef (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 341

3 Credits

Examines the issues currently facing Israeli society and the ongoing debates in Israeli politics. Provides historical background and analytical understanding of contemporary Israeli politics. Attention will be paid to political history, institutions, economic development, coalition formation, ethnic politics, and religious-secular divisions as they are manifested in Israeli politics.

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 Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 350 - International Political Economy

Instructor: Allison Myren (TR 4:00-5:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 350

4 Credits

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 365 - Machiavelli and His World

Instructor: Kristi Phillips-Court (TR 9:55-10:45am)

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 373 — Introduction to Survey Research

Instructor: Ethan Vanderwilde (TR 11:00-11:50am)

Syllabus: PS 373

3 Credits

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 Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 400 - Topics in Political Science (Liberalism, Conservatism, and U.S. Political Development)

Instructors: Ryan Owens and Daniel Kapust (MW 2:30-3:45pm)

Syllabus: PS 400

4 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 401 - Selected Topics in Political Science (Russian Foreign Policy Since 1991: The Road to War and Beyond)

Instructor: Mikhail Troitskiy (M 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	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 414 - The Supreme Court as a Political Institution

Instructor: Ryan Owens (MW 8:00-9:15am)

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 417 - The American Judicial System

Instructor: Alex Tahk (TR 11:00-12:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 417

4 Credits

Structure, process, and personnel of American courts; emphasis on the governmental and political consequences of court decisions for public policy-making.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and (POLI SCI 104, 184, or LEGAL ST/POLI SCI 217)
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 431 — Contentious Politics

Instructor: Erica Simmons (TR 9:30-10:45am)

Syllabus: PS 431

4 Credits

Social movements, revolutions, and riots continually shape and re-shape the world around us. The course will evaluate and apply dominant theoretical approaches to understanding contention through careful attention to empirical cases throughout the world.

Requisites	Sophomore standing and POLI SCI 140 or INTL ST 101 (or POLI SCI 103 taken prior to fall 2017) or graduate/professional standing
Subfield Distribution	Comparative Politics
Course Designation	Breadth – Social Science Level – Advanced L&S Credit – Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

PS 435 — Politics of Gender and Women's Rights in the Middle East

Instructor: Marwa Shalaby (R 2:30-5:00pm)

Syllabus: PS 435

3 Credits

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 Grad 50% – Counts toward 50% graduate coursework requirement
Repeatable for Credit	No

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

Instructor: Eduardo Schmidt 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: Aleisha Lachette (TR 9:30-10:45am)

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

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 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 601 - Proseminar: Topics in Political Science (Pan African Political Thought)

Instructor: Keisha Lindsay (M 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 683 — Senior Honors Thesis Seminar

Instructor: Amy Gangl (T 1:20-3:15pm)

Syllabus: PS 601

3 Credits

Requisites	Junior standing and declared in an Honors program
Subfield Distribution	Thesis
Course Designation	Level – Advanced L&S Credit – Counts as Liberal Arts and Science credit in L&S Honors – Honors Only Courses (H)
Repeatable for Credit	No