Course Descriptions

POS 102 - American National Government

3 Credits

This course studies the American political system, including its constitutional foundation, institutions, processes, and current issues. The historical and contemporary features of the American government, as well as the pivotal events that have shaped it, are investigated. Attention is also paid to American political culture and the importance of civic engagement. Collaborative dialogue and deliberation are used to ensure the representation of multiple perspectives and to work through points of difference.

Learning Attributes: WR

SUNY General Education: SUNY - Civic Discourse Competency, SUNY - U.S. History and Civic Engagement

Course Learning Outcomes
1. Describe the Constitution and its historical context.
2. Explain essential components of the Constitution.
3. Explain the function of the American government's key institutions and political processes.
4. Describe the tensions between state and federal authority.
5. Evaluate the protection of key constitutional rights and liberties.
6. Articulate individual ideals of democracy in the context of American republicanism.
7. Assess the effects of media and public opinion on political processes.
8. Utilize writing to communicate an understanding, application, analysis, or evaluation of material covered in this course.
9. Evaluate the historical context or current effect of the Constitution, key institutions, and political processes of American government through dialogue and deliberation that recognizes, respects, and addresses divergent perspectives.

Course Offered Fall; Spring

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Spring Semester 2026
Summer Session 2026