POLS — Political Science: Catalog Entries

12 catalog course(s) on file. Undergraduate courses are numbered 100–499; graduate courses 500–699. See the department page for faculty and program information.

POLS 101 — American Government(3 cr.)

Introduction to the structure and function of American national government, including the branches, federalism, and civil liberties. Students examine how political institutions shape policy outcomes. Current events are integrated throughout the course.

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POLS 110 — Introduction to Comparative Politics(3 cr.)

Survey of political systems across a range of countries, examining regime types, institutions, and political culture. Students compare democratic and authoritarian systems using case studies. Emphasis is placed on identifying patterns across regions.

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POLS 120 — Introduction to International Relations(3 cr.)

Overview of theories explaining conflict, cooperation, and diplomacy among nations. Topics include international organizations, security, and global political economy. Case studies examine historical and contemporary international events.

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POLS 210 — State and Local Government(3 cr.)

Study of the structure and policymaking processes of state and municipal governments in the United States. Students analyze the distribution of power between federal, state, and local authorities. Regional case studies illustrate practical applications.

Prerequisite(s): POLS 101

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POLS 230 — Political Ideologies(3 cr.)

Examination of major political ideologies, including liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and nationalism. Students trace the historical development and contemporary relevance of each tradition. Class debates encourage critical engagement with competing worldviews.

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POLS 310 — American Constitutional Law(3 cr.)

Study of constitutional interpretation through analysis of landmark Supreme Court decisions. Topics include separation of powers, federalism, and individual rights. Students brief and discuss cases in a seminar format.

Prerequisite(s): POLS 101

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POLS 320 — Public Policy Analysis(3 cr.)

Introduction to the process of policy formation, implementation, and evaluation. Students apply analytical frameworks to real policy problems in areas such as health, education, and the environment. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based policy recommendations.

Prerequisite(s): POLS 101

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POLS 340 — International Law and Organization(3 cr.)

Study of the legal frameworks and institutions governing relations among states. Topics include treaties, human rights law, and the role of the United Nations. Students analyze contemporary disputes through the lens of international law.

Prerequisite(s): POLS 120

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POLS 360 — Political Parties and Elections(3 cr.)

Examination of the role of political parties, campaigns, and voting behavior in democratic systems. Students analyze polling data and election outcomes using quantitative methods. Emphasis is placed on recent electoral trends.

Prerequisite(s): POLS 101

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POLS 410 — Research Methods in Political Science(4 cr.)

Introduction to qualitative and quantitative methods used in political science research, including survey design and statistical analysis. Students design and execute an original research project. Serves as preparation for the senior seminar.

Prerequisite(s): POLS 101

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POLS 430 — Special Topics in Political Science(3 cr.)

Focused study of a current issue in political science, such as populism, cybersecurity policy, or judicial politics. Topics rotate based on faculty expertise and student interest. Students complete an in-depth research paper.

Prerequisite(s): Junior standing

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POLS 495 — Senior Seminar in Political Science(3 cr.)

Capstone seminar in which students design and complete an original research project on a topic of their choosing. Drafts are presented and critiqued in a workshop setting. Serves as the culminating experience for the major.

Prerequisite(s): Senior standing

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