Political Science courses

POLA 2100 American Government
American Government
An introductory survey of government at the national level with emphasis on constitutional principles and significant contemporary trends and problems.
credit hours: 3
American Government

POLA 3010 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLA 3020 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLA 3240 Public Policy
Public Policy
This course covers the policy making process for domestic policy in the United States. We will study the following questions: Why do some problems reach the political agenda and others do not? Who are the important actors in the policy process and what roles do they play? What are the values at stake with policy debates? What explains why certain solutions are offered and others are rejected? How do we know if a policy has been successful?
credit hours: 3
Public Policy

POLA 3270 Courts and Politics
Courts and Politics
Analysis of the political factors that influence courts, their staffing, their decisions, and their policymaking role. The interaction between legal policies and structures and political institutions and their development will be addressed.
credit hours: 3
Courts and Politics

POLA 3272 Big Easy Politics
Big Easy Politics
The objective of this course is for students to examine the level of government with the greatest impact on the daily lives of Americans--local government. Specifically, we will focus on the politics, functions, and governmental structure of the City of New Orleans.
credit hours: 3
Big Easy Politics

POLA 3280 Southern Politics
Southern Politics
This class is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of Politics in the American South. The course focuses on both the distinctiveness of the region and the South's influence on the nation. The course selectively examines historical as well as contemporary issues related to the eleven states of the Old Confederacy.
Notes: Writing Practica Option.
credit hours: 3
Southern Politics

POLA 3910 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLA 3920 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLA 4010 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLA 4020 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLA 4110 Policy Research Shop
Policy Research Shop
The Policy Research class creates a partnership between city government and Tulane students in order to address issues of concern to the city and increase students' civic engagement. In this course, the professor solicits policy topics from elected and appointed officials and bureaucrats and the students write policy briefs on these issue areas. In exchange for the policy brief , policy sponsors agree to allow the students to present their findings at an official forum, such as a city council meeting.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Policy Research Shop

POLA 4120 Louisiana Politics
Louisiana Politics
A review of topics in Louisiana politics, including right- and left-wing populism, campaign techniques, diversion of campaign funds and rewards for supporters, the culture of sociability, and the history of racial, regional, and religious cleavage. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Louisiana Politics

POLA 4140 Urban Politics
Urban Politics
This course is an introduction to urban politics in the United States. It will focus on problems of cities and discuss solutions to these problems, including the lack of formal authority and high rates of class, race, and ethnic heterogeneity and segregation. We will focus on the heritage of municipal government in the U.S., the development of their responsibilities, and the role of federal and state governments in municipal affairs. The course will also spend time discussing some of the solutions for residents of urban areas to try to advocate for change.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Urban Politics

POLA 4150 Elections in America
Elections in America
Pre-requisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010 - The focus is on candidates. political parties. the Dress, consultants, and public opinion in elections and political campaigns. Covers presidential and congressional elections, Each semester, special attention is paid to a topic such as the economy, fundraising. activists, or campaign techniques.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Elections in America

POLA 4160 Political Parties
Political Parties
Pre-requisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010- A study of theories of political parties in the United States and other democracies. The stress is on the electoral and governmental role of party organizations.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Political Parties

POLA 4170 The American Presidency
The American Presidency
Pre-requisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010 - A study of the office of the President of the United States that includes both historical review and analysis of the Presidential role in our national government. A main focus of the course is on the relative importance of particular presidents and their leadership capacities and the limitations on the office itself.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
The American Presidency

POLA 4180 American Political Culture
American Political Culture
An examination of the American ways of practicing politics and thinking about governance. The course compares culture two centuries ago with the present, American with non-American political culture, political culture with market culture, and the dominant cultures with subcultures. Students will conduct research on aspects of New Orleans political culture. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
American Political Culture

POLA 4200 Congress
Congress
Pre-requisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010- A study of the United States Congress with emphasis on its development, its internal structure, the relationship of the elected representatives to their constituents, and the legislative process itself.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Congress

POLA 4210 Women and Politics
Women and Politics
Pre-requisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010 - This course is an exploration of the role gender and sex have in politics, including voting. party activism, leadership, candidacy, holding office, and law-making. Special attention will be paid to the relationship between gender and political behavior, including political socialization, political attitudes. and public policy creation. Time will be spent on understanding what gender and sex mean in American politics, as well as the effect that disparate power has on political behavior.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Women and Politics

POLA 4220 The Military in American Politics
The Military in American Politics
This course examines the United States armed forces as political actors and objects of policymaking. Special attention will be paid to changes in the military's influence and interests over time, and to the post-Cold War debate over the relevance of military power to the pursuit of national interests. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
The Military in American Politics

POLA 4230 Environmental Politics and Policy
Environmental Politics and Policy
Pre-Prerequisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010 - This course is an examination of the process of environmental policymaking in the United States. We will evaluate how environmental politics and policymaking has progressed in the US and the current state of environmental policymaking. Using a case-study approach, we will examine current environmental problems for local and state governments and suggest policy solutions.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Environmental Politics and Policy

POLA 4250 The Politics of Poverty Policy
The Politics of Poverty Policy
Pre-requisites: POLA 2100 and POLS 2010 - This course covers the politics of poverty policy within the United States, including relevant approaches to the debates over poverty’s causes consequences and solutions: the ways in which poverty is defined and measured and how this affects the policy alternatives: the state of economic inequality in the United States: American attitudes toward the poor and policies seeking to address poverty: and, an examination of case studies to redress poverty.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
The Politics of Poverty Policy

POLA 4260 Race, Sex, and Power
Race, Sex, and Power
This course examines the role of race and sex based classification in the law of equal protection and focuses on the political actions and events that lead to legal remedies for discrimination. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Race, Sex, and Power

POLA 4270 Constitutional Law
Constitutional Law
A study of the general powers and limits of the branches of the national government and the relationship among the levels of government, as this has affected civil rights and individual liberties under the Constitution. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Constitutional Law

POLA 4310 Interst Groups and the Supreme Court
Interst Groups and the Supreme Court
This course will examine the role of interest groups in various aspects of the Supreme Court process, including the selection of justices, case selection, and judicial decision making. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Interst Groups and the Supreme Court

POLA 4350 Politics of Education Policy
Politics of Education Policy
This course examines education policy through the lens of U.S. Politics. In particular, we will consider what public schools should do for students: the changing nature of school governance: the major policy problems within primary and secondary education and how they have been defined: the groups that have had power in education policy debates: and where New Orleans fits into the larger national picture with regard to its education system?"
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Politics of Education Policy

POLA 4450 Politics and Literature
Politics and Literature
Prof. Brox. Pre-requisite: POLA 2100. Study of political theme as presented in American literature. For majors only. Non-major junior and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Politics and Literature

POLA 4800 Science, Technology, and Public Policy
Science, Technology, and Public Policy
Interdisciplinary examination of the role of science and technology in modern society. Inquiry into the possibilities and methods of public review of governmental policies having significant technological implications. Introduction to the concepts and techniques of technology assessment. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Science, Technology, and Public Policy

POLA 6120 Advanced Campaigns and Elections
Advanced Campaigns and Elections
Prof. Brox. Pre-requisite: POLA 2100 and POLA 4150. This course explores advanced topics related to election campaigns in the United States. Particular attention will be paid to how campaigns are run and their impact on election outcomes. The course will introduce students to the paradigms and techniques that political scientists use to study campaigns and elections.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100,POLS 2010 and POLA 4150 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Advanced Campaigns and Elections

POLA 6180 Public Opinion and Voting Behavior
Public Opinion and Voting Behavior
An analysis of opinion formation in political situations and a survey of voting behavior in the United States.
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100,POLS 2010 and POLA 4150 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Public Opinion and Voting Behavior

POLA 6290 Judicial Processes
Judicial Processes
Pre-requistites: POLA 2100,POLS 2010 and POLA 4150 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Judicial Processes

POLC 2300 Introduction to Comparative Politics
Introduction to Comparative Politics
This course introduces students to the fundamental theories and concepts of the subfield of comparative politics. Comparative politics is a method of analysis that evaluates similarities and differences among political systems in order to develop general conclusions about political phenomena. The study of politics beyond U.S. borders helps place our own political system into perspective by highlighting alternatives to our own system and challenging the assumption that there is only one right way to organize political life.
credit hours: 3
Introduction to Comparative Politics

POLC 3010 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLC 3020 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLC 3300 European Governments
European Governments
This course is an introduction to the Post-World War II evolution of Western Europe. It examines four main dimensions: (i) the position of countries in the international political economy, (ii) the role of the state in the management of the economy as well as of the welfare system, (iii) the formal structure of the system of governance and policymaking, and (iv) the form of political participation and representation.
credit hours: 3
European Governments

POLC 3310 Politics of Central America
Politics of Central America
This course will focus on the current state of Central American politics and society by analyzing the social and political forces at play in the region, the challenges of its economic development, and its external interaction with the United States and other world regions. Although regional in its scope the course will rely on individual countries to exemplify particular issues confronting the region.
credit hours: 3
Politics of Central America

POLC 3350 Politics of Latin America
Politics of Latin America
This course will focus on the current state of Latin American politics and society by analyzing the social and political forces at play in the region, the challenges of its economic development, and its external interaction with the United States and other world regions. Although regional in its scope the course will rely on individual countries from South America as well as Mexico to exemplify particular issues confronting the region.
credit hours: 3
Politics of Latin America

POLC 3380 Asian Governments
Asian Governments
This course focuses on the origins and dynamics of change in the newer nations of Asia, with a special emphasis on South Asia.
Notes: Credit will not be given for both 4380 and 6430.
credit hours: 3
Asian Governments

POLC 3410 Politics and Nationalism
Politics and Nationalism
A study of nationalism and ethnic conflict in the contemporary world. Both approaches to the study of nationalist conflict and case studies of conflict are included.
credit hours: 3
Politics and Nationalism

POLC 3910 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLC 3920 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLC 4010 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLC 4020 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLC 4030 Comparative Political Economy of the Welfare State
Comparative Political Economy of the Welfare State
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Comparative Political Economy of the Welfare State

POLC 4300 From Feudalism to Fascism: The Political and Economic Development of Western Europe
From Feudalism to Fascism: The Political and Economic Development of Western Europe
This course focuses on the historical antecedents of contemporary West Europe politics, with an emphasis on the social and economics bases of 20th-Century regime outcomes. It explores the political development of four major European countries - Great Britain, France, Germany, and Italy-with particular attention to contrasting responses to economic, social, and political challenges since the middle ages, including the commercialization of agriculture, the consolidation and dissolution of political regimes, democratization, and industrialization.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
From Feudalism to Fascism: The Political and Economic Development of Western Europe

POLC 4310 Mexican Politics and Government
Mexican Politics and Government
An exploration of the Mexican political process and the historical developments leading up to its present structure. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Mexican Politics and Government

POLC 4340 Latin American Environmental Politics
Latin American Environmental Politics
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Latin American Environmental Politics

POLC 4341 Middle East Comparative Politics
Middle East Comparative Politics
Overview of the domestic politics in the countries of the Middle East, focusing on the different types of regime that exist and recent political developments.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Middle East Comparative Politics

POLC 4360 Russian Politics
Russian Politics
An examination of both formal and informal factors affecting the nature of the Russian political system. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Russian Politics

POLC 4390 Poverty and Development
Poverty and Development
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2300, POLI 2500 and POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Poverty and Development

POLC 4392 Controversies in Global Public Health
Controversies in Global Public Health
This class explores the politics of global public health, both in the sense of how politics affects global health governance and the ways in which global health issues fit into the discipline of political science. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2300, POLI 2500 and POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Controversies in Global Public Health

POLC 4420 State and Society in Developing Countries
State and Society in Developing Countries
The course examines the global context of political development in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, the pursuit of economic development and democracy in these regions, and efforts at grass-roots reform. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
State and Society in Developing Countries

POLC 4430 Politics of New Democracies
Politics of New Democracies
This course discusses the manifestations and causes of political change in the newly democratic states of the world. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Politics of New Democracies

POLC 4450 Revolution, Protest, and Change
Revolution, Protest, and Change
An examination of the causes, dynamics, and consequences of political movements of revolution and reform. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Revolution, Protest, and Change

POLC 4470 Politics and Literature
Politics and Literature
Study of the literature of political dissent, with particular focus on writers in communist and other authoritarian states. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Politics and Literature

POLC 4510 The Politics of the European Union
The Politics of the European Union
The nation-states of the old Europe are becoming the member-states of a European Union. While founded to avoid a repetition of the horrors of the past, the New Europe is increasingly being viewed as a model for the future. This course provides an overview of the political institutions and the political economy of the European Union. Four main areas are examined: (i) formal institutions and institutional relations of the European Union (ii) critical junctures in the evolution of the European Union, (iii) issues of democratic deficits, and (iv) external relations and eastward enlargement. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
The Politics of the European Union

POLC 4520 Comparative State-Building: Latin America
Comparative State-Building: Latin America
This course will explore the nature of state authority and the processes by which different types of states emerged at different moments in world history and in different regions of the world, as well as how the nature of states has evolved over time. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Comparative State-Building: Latin America

POLC 6100 Politics and Health
Politics and Health
This course approaches health care as a policy area, one in which a variety of actors attempt to influence the design and delivery of health services. We begin with an overview of the U.S. system, compare it to peer nations, and then analyze health policy issues in other world regions.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Politics and Health

POLC 6120 Comparative Social Policy
Comparative Social Policy
This course focuses on welfare states and social policy across world regions including advanced industrialized countries, post-communist states, and developing nations. It examines explanations for variation in social policy provision across countries and regions and asks why welfare state reforms are more successful in some places than others. The course includes detailed study of key policy areas (pensions, healthcare, and education).
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Comparative Social Policy

POLC 6410 Approaches to Latin American Politics
Approaches to Latin American Politics
Major approaches to the study of Latin American politics such as developmentalism, institutionalism, corporativism, bureaucratism, authoritarianism, and dependency theory.
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Approaches to Latin American Politics

POLC 6910 Authoritarianism
Authoritarianism
Despite the impressive gains that democracy has made over the past four decades, more than half of the countries in the world remain autocratic. What are the roots of this authoritarian resilience? We will first approach this question theoretically and by cases studies of countries in Europe and Eurasia (the Soviet Union; pre-1989 Eastern Europe; post Soviet Russia and Central Asia), Asia (China, North Korea, Taiwan), Latin America (Mexico, Cuba), and the Middle East (Irag, Syria, Iran).
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Authoritarianism

POLC 6920 Democracy and Democratization
Democracy and Democratization
Theories of democratization. Democratic institutions. Democratic regime performance.
Pre-requistites: PPOLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Democracy and Democratization

POLC 6930 Regime Change in Asia
Regime Change in Asia
In this course we will analyze the reasons for democratization in some Asian countries and will evaluate the prospects for regime change in countries that remain authoritarian. The first module of the course will focus on theories of authoritarian rule and of democratization. The second will examine several successful cases of democratization. The third module will focus on China, which represents a crucial case of regime durability. The fourth module of the course will assess the prospects for regime change in North Korea and several Southeast Asian autocracies.
Notes: Counts as an elective in Asian Studies
Pre-requistites: POLC 2010,POLC 2300 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Regime Change in Asia

POLI 2500 International Relations
International Relations
An introductory analysis of basic factors influencing international politics, organization and law.
Notes: POLI 3510.
credit hours: 3
International Relations

POLI 3010 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLI 3020 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLI 3040 Politics of Immigration
Politics of Immigration
This course will explore the history of immigration to the U.S., the major push and pull factors fueling immigration, the impacts of immigration on sending and receiving communities, and the outcomes of various policy responses.
credit hours: 3
Politics of Immigration

POLI 3410 Globalization and Politics
Globalization and Politics
The Globalization and Politics course examines diverse aspects of globalization and their effects on politics. The course begins with the analyses of the debate between globalists and anti-globalists, followed by the study of the economic effects of globalization and increase in capital and labor mobility. The issues of global inequality, global civil society, North-South gap and global governance are also addressed. The course provides answers to the questions about the impact of global culture and growing influence of high-tech global flows in special social networking.
credit hours: 3
Globalization and Politics

POLI 3520 International Organization
International Organization
A systematic study of attempts to modify the international system through multilateral organization.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500.
credit hours: 3
International Organization

POLI 3540 International Political Economy
International Political Economy
Survey of traditional and recent theories and approaches to the study of international political economy. Emphasis will be given to the microfoundations for macromodels such as liberalism, Marxism, and realism. Topical areas will include monetary management, trade, and multinational corporations.
Notes: Credit will not be given for both 4540 and Political Economy 3010.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500.
credit hours: 3
International Political Economy

POLI 3630 The Causes and Prevention of International War
The Causes and Prevention of International War
This course surveys the causes of war among nations. The course examines theories of war causation, and tests these out on historical case studies from the 20th century. The lessons of the past will be applied to important contemporary questions: Is the postwar peace among the great powers permanent? What policies can help reduce the likelihood of future war? Can 20th century theories explain 21st century conflicts? Upon completion of this course, students will be familiar with many of the factors that seem to cause, exacerbate, or lessen military conflict between nation-states. Students will be able to apply these factors in examining real-world scenarios. Pre-requisite: POLI 2500
credit hours: 3
The Causes and Prevention of International War

POLI 3660 Rise of China
Rise of China
Today, China claims its rightful status as a rising great power. in this course, we will examine two facets of China's rise: economic and military, paying particular attention to their implications for American foreign policy. A substantial portion of the course will be devoted to analyzing China's bilateral relations with its neighbors and its global reach. We will end this course by examining China's attempt to build soft power through cultural diplomacy.
Notes: Counts as an elective in Asian Studies
credit hours: 3
Rise of China

POLI 3910 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLI 3920 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLI 4010 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLI 4020 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLI 4310 Peace Studies & Conflict Management
Peace Studies & Conflict Management
Peace Studies is often defined as the study of conflict resolution through nonviolent means. This course will introduce students to a range of theories and experiences exploring ways to resolve violent conflicts, with a focus on intrastate war, and conditions to build sustainable peace in nations that have seen armed conflict. Taking an interdisciplinary approach by including readings from psychology, anthropology, international relations and more, we will consider theoretical debates regarding the roots of conflicts and how these interpretations affect the choice of conflict management tools. Then we will study various attempts of peacemaking, ranging from mediation to nonviolent resistance, nation-building to human rights regimes. Reflecting on both evidence and theory the course will give students an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of current approaches to conflict management and peace building. Pre-requisites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010
credit hours: 3
Peace Studies & Conflict Management

POLI 4410 International Law
International Law
This course provides an introduction to basic principles of international law and how it is created, implemented, and enforced. Students will learn what forms of law make up international law; how international law is made and by whom; to whom international law applies; and the specific rules of international law in various subject areas. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500.POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
International Law

POLI 4530 American Foreign Policy
American Foreign Policy
Theory and practice of American foreign policy. Emphasis is on major issues in United States diplomacy and on basic ideas governing American foreign policy. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
American Foreign Policy

POLI 4600 Latin American International Relations
Latin American International Relations
This course deals with relations among Latin American nations as well as those with the United States, Europe, Japan, and multinational institutions. This class will cover the international aspects of issues such as trade, security, human rights, immigration, and environmental politics as they relate to Latin America. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500,POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Latin American International Relations

POLI 4610 Africa in International Politics
Africa in International Politics
A study of the role played by African nations in international relations. The course addresses theoretical issues such as the meaning of statehood and the definition of responsible government, and then investigates how international actors have affected their development in Africa. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500.POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Africa in International Politics

POLI 4620 Global Environmental Politics
Global Environmental Politics
An examination of the political dimensions of international environmental problems. The course will include investigation and analysis of the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to a range of environmental problems. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500,POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Global Environmental Politics

POLI 4630 Strategy and Politics
Strategy and Politics
The focus of this course is grand strategy - the economic, diplomatic, and military policies adopted by states to improve their security. Theory and historical evidence will be used to address these questions: What are the different types of grand strategy, and which are appropriate to different international conditions? What forces determine a state's choice of grand strategy? What political, psychological, and cultural factors lead states to choose badly? For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500,POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Strategy and Politics

POLI 4650 Russian Foreign Policy
Russian Foreign Policy
This course will explore the sources and substance of Russian foreign policy with a focus on security issues, and on relations with the U. S., Europe, and the new independent states of Eurasia. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500,POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Russian Foreign Policy

POLI 4660 Middle East Security
Middle East Security
Overview of contemporary security conditions in the Middle East, including conventional arms balances, weapons of mass destruction, guerrilla wars, terrorism, and economic conditions affecting security.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Middle East Security

POLI 4670 Politics of the Arab-Israeli Conflict
Politics of the Arab-Israeli Conflict
Examines the origins and development of the Arab-Israeli conflict from the beginning of renewed Jewish settlement in Palestine in the 1880s until the present day.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Politics of the Arab-Israeli Conflict

POLI 6530 International Human Rights
International Human Rights
This course addresses a number of specific questions: What are the main issues and debates in international human rights?; What does the international human rights regime look like and how does it function?; What role do domestic and international politics play in shaping the international human rights debate?; How are international human rights norms applicable within the United States? In addressing these questions, the goal of this course is to facilitate your understanding of each of these issues and encourage the application of this foundational knowledge to international human rights both globally and locally. This goal is furthered through the optional Service Learning component of the class. It is helpful, but not required, to have taken International Law prior to taking this course.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
International Human Rights

POLI 6630 International Security
International Security
A review of critical issues threatening the security of the major powers including nuclear strategy, arms control, weapons procurement, international economics, and military interventions in regional disputes. In addition to the substance of selected issues, the course deals with the literature on decision-making, crisis management, and the organization of governments for effective foreign policy-making. Emphasis is on American security problems and policy-making.
Pre-requistites: POLI 2500, POLS 2010 or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
International Security

POLS 1010 Introduction to Politics
Introduction to Politics
An introduction to the principles and practice of political life in a variety of domestic and international contexts. Open to freshmen only. Each 1010 section has a limited enrollment of no more than 20 students. A paper is required and is assigned on a tutorial basis with individual student-instructor conferences.
Notes: Credit will be given for only one of the following: 1010 or H1010.
credit hours: 3
Introduction to Politics

POLS 2010 Introduction to Scope and Methods of Political Science
Introduction to Scope and Methods of Political Science
This course is intended to introduce advanced students to the concepts and methods of political science research. Substantive fields of interest--such as American politics, IR, Comparative, etc.--are all bound by similar skills and techniques inherent to the discipline of political science. Students will be introduced to these techniques in an effort to train them to become producers, not merely consumers of knowledge. This course is fundamentally about how to conduct research in political science, and what makes political science a science. The course covers both introductory quantitative methods (univariate, bivariate, and some multivariate analyses), as well as some of the most often used qualitative methods in the discipline. The course is not meant to be exhaustive of all political science methods.
credit hours: 3
Introduction to Scope and Methods of Political Science

POLS 2880 Writing Practicum in Political Science
Writing Practicum in Political Science
Notes: Fulfills the college intensive-writing requirement.
Pre-requistites: Successful completion of the First-Year Writing Requirement.
Co-requisites: Three-credit departmental course.
credit hours: 3
Writing Practicum in Political Science

POLS 3010 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLS 3020 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLS 3880 Writing Practicum in Political Science
Writing Practicum in Political Science
Notes: Fulfills the college intensive-writing requirement.
Pre-requistites: Successful completion of the First-Year Writing Requirement.
Co-requisites: Three-credit departmental course.
credit hours: 1
Writing Practicum in Political Science

POLS 3910 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLS 3920 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLS 4010 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLS 4020 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLS 4560 Internship Studies
Internship Studies
An experiential learning process coupled with pertinent academic course work. Open only to juniors and seniors in good standing.
Notes: Only one internship may be completed per semester. A maximum of three credits may be counted in one or more courses toward the Political Science or International Relations major. See also the college requirements for internships. Note that the department also collaborates on internships with the Center for Public Service.
Pre-requistites: Approval of instructor and department.
credit hours: 1-3
Internship Studies

POLS 4570 Internship Studies
Internship Studies
An experiential learning process coupled with pertinent academic course work. Open only to juniors and seniors in good standing.
Notes: Only one internship may be completed per semester. A maximum of three credits may be counted in one or more courses toward the Political Science or International Relations major. See also the college requirements for internships. Note that the department also collaborates on internships with the Center for Public Service.
Pre-requistites: Approval of instructor and department.
credit hours: 3
Internship Studies

POLS 4880 Writing Practicum in Political Science
Writing Practicum in Political Science
Notes: Fulfills the college intensive-writing requirement.
Pre-requistites: Successful completion of the First-Year Writing Requirement.
Co-requisites: Three-credit departmental course.
credit hours: 1
Writing Practicum in Political Science

POLS 5100 Senior Capstone Experience
Senior Capstone Experience
Notes: This course fulfills the capstone requirement for majors.
credit hours: 1
Senior Capstone Experience

POLS 6950 Special Offerings in Political Science
Special Offerings in Political Science
For description, consult department.
Notes: For specific offering, see the Schedule of Classes.
credit hours: 3
Special Offerings in Political Science

POLS 6960 Special Offerings in Political Science
Special Offerings in Political Science
For description, consult department.
Notes: For specific offering, see the Schedule of Classes.
credit hours: 3
Special Offerings in Political Science

POLS 9980 Master's Research
Master's Research
credit hours: 0
Master's Research

POLS 9990 Dissertation Research
Dissertation Research
credit hours: 0
Dissertation Research

POLS H1010 Introduction to Politics
Introduction to Politics
An introduction to the principles and practice of political life in a variety of domestic and international contexts. Open only to honors freshmen. Each H1010 section has a limited enrollment of no more than 15 students. A paper is required and is assigned on a tutorial basis with individual student-instructor conferences.
Notes: Credit will be given for only one of the following: 1010 or H1010.
credit hours: 3
Introduction to Politics

POLS H4990 Honors Thesis
Honors Thesis
Only four of these credits are to be counted toward the requirements for the major. Honors theses written in political science do not count as political science writing courses.
credit hours: 3
Honors Thesis

POLS H5000 Honors Thesis
Honors Thesis
Only four of these credits are to be counted toward the requirements for the major. Honors theses written in political science do not count as political science writing courses.
credit hours: 3
Honors Thesis

POLT 2700 Political Thought in The West
Political Thought in The West
A history of the development of Western political thought from the ancient Greeks to recent times.
credit hours: 3
Political Thought in The West

POLT 3010 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLT 3020 Special Projects
Special Projects
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLT 3740 Greek Foundations of Western Political Thought
Greek Foundations of Western Political Thought
A study of the classical Greek foundations of diverse traditions of Western political thought from Homer to Epicureanism. Special attention will be paid to the Sophists, Plato, and Aristotle.
credit hours: 3
Greek Foundations of Western Political Thought

POLT 3780 Feminist Political Theory
Feminist Political Theory
This course will focus, first on the role of women in the tradition of western political thought. Second, the course will examine the attempts of contemporary feminist thinkers to deal with concepts central to the tradition of political theory, such as justice, equality, and liberty.
credit hours: 3
Feminist Political Theory

POLT 3810 Political Discourse
Political Discourse
A survey of theories of political discourse from the ancient Greeks to late 20th-century democratic theory. Special attention will be paid to the relationship between classical rhetoric and political theory.
credit hours: 3
Political Discourse

POLT 3820 Contemporary Political Ideas
Contemporary Political Ideas
An analysis of variants of revisionist Marxism, socialism, anarchism, fascism, 20th-century liberalism and conservatism, and the relation of these to contemporary American ideologies.
credit hours: 3
Contemporary Political Ideas

POLT 3910 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLT 3920 Independent Study
Independent Study
Independent study on a suitable topic, with consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Independent Study

POLT 4010 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLT 4020 Special Projects
Special Projects
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Special Projects

POLT 4610 Bible as Political Theory
Bible as Political Theory
A study of the Bible from the prospective of political theory, which analyzes the similarities and differences between the political perspectives of classical (Greek and Roman) thinkers those of the Bible. The course will focus on the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), although the New Testament, especially those sections dealing with social ethics, will be examined and discussed. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Bible as Political Theory

POLT 4720 Ancient and Medieval Political Theory
Ancient and Medieval Political Theory
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Ancient and Medieval Political Theory

POLT 4730 Social Contract Theory
Social Contract Theory
A survey of historical developments leading up to the current social contract revival among North American and European political theorists. Particular attention will be paid to the varieties of contractualism since the ancients and the appropriateness of contract theories for understanding the social, political, and moral relationships in modern commercial societies. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Social Contract Theory

POLT 4770 Transition to Modernity
Transition to Modernity
For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Transition to Modernity

POLT 4780 Modern Political Theory
Modern Political Theory
An analysis of the development of political theory since the 16th century with emphasis on modern ideologies especially conservatism, liberalism, communism, and fascism. Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Bentham, and Marx are given particular attention. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Modern Political Theory

POLT 4790 Contemporary Political Philosophy
Contemporary Political Philosophy
Analyzing contemporary political philosophy, within the context of Kantianism vs. Hegelianism. Attention will be concentrated on political philosophers such as Arendt, Oakeshott, Rawls, Foucault, Lyotard and Derrida. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
Contemporary Political Philosophy

POLT 4860 American Political Thought
American Political Thought
This course discusses the historical development of the Constitution and associated political ideas, from the founding period up to the present. Thinkers discussed include Paine, Madison, Calhoun, Dewey, and Rawls, among others. For majors only. Non-major juniors and seniors may enroll in courses at the 4000-level or above only with the consent of the instructor.
Pre-requistites: POLT 2700 or POLT 3820, or consent of instructor
credit hours: 3
American Political Thought