Course Descriptions

POS 101 - Introduction to Political Science

3 Credits

This course provides an overview of several of the basic areas of study in the discipline of political science. This course will focus on the nature of both domestic and global politics. This includes an investigation of the impact of politics in our everyday lives; the nature and function of politics and government; modern ideologies; political participation; the branches of government; and an analysis of the global system.

Learning Attributes: WR

SUNY General Education: SUNY-SS - Social Sciences (SSCS)

MCC General Education: MCC-CT - Critical Thinking (MCT), MCC-SCI - Scientific Reasoning (MSCI), MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

POS 102 - American National Government

3 Credits

This course is a study of the American political system, its constitutional foundation, national institutions and contemporary issues. This course examines how the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, in addition to other national institutions, interact with each other and citizens.

Learning Attributes: WR

SUNY General Education: SUNY-AH - American History (SAMH)

MCC General Education: MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

POS 203 - Civil Liberties and Rights in the U.S.

3 Credits

An examination of controversial issues in Constitutional history. This includes a focus on the decision making process of the federal court system with regards to the civil liberties and rights enumerated in the Constitution. Students will read landmark Supreme Court cases which determine both the limits and content of government powers and vital personal freedoms.

Learning Attributes: WR

SUNY General Education: SUNY-AH - American History (SAMH)

MCC General Education: MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

POS 205 - Comparative Political Systems

3 Credits

This course provides an overview of analytical concepts and tools used in the study of a variety of political systems. This includes the descriptive and analytical examination of political systems generally classified as democratic, non-democratic, or undergoing transition. Particular attention is paid to government institutions and political processes, current leadership, and major public policy of those selected systems under review.

Learning Attributes: WR

SUNY General Education: SUNY-OWC - Other World Civilizations (SOW2)

MCC General Education: MCC-GLO - Global Understanding (MGLO), MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

POS 206 - International Politics

3 Credits

This course critically analyzes the structure and principles of the global system. The objective of this course is to give students a fundamental understanding of contemporary international affairs through a systematic examination of those theories, concepts, and events that directly relate to the global system. Topics relating to both state and human security will be addressed. This includes war and peace, terrorism, foreign policy-making, nationalism, and those areas of security relating to the environment, health, and economy. The important function of international law and organizations, and the international political economy will also be introduced. Emphasis will be placed on the role of state and non-state actors, as well as an analysis of both important historical and current events.

Learning Attributes: WR

MCC General Education: MCC-GLO - Global Understanding (MGLO)

POS 210 - Introduction to Political Thought

3 Credits

This course offers a survey of western political thought from classical Greece to the present. This course pays attention to the historical context out of which the political thought of Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke and others arose. Through the examination of the development of political thought, this course will grow an understanding of the nature and foundations of modern governments.

Learning Attributes: WR

SUNY General Education: SUNY-WC - Western Civilization (SWCV)

MCC General Education: MCC-CT - Critical Thinking (MCT), MCC-GLO - Global Understanding (MGLO), MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

POS 216 - Special Topics in Political Science

3 Credits

This course is designed to address specific topics of interest in political science. Offerings are more specific and focused than the introductory surveys. Examples of potential offerings could include The American Presidency, Comparative Public Policy, American National Security, and Urban Politics in a Comparative Perspective. Topics may change from semester to semester based on faculty and student interest. The classes will be primarily lecture and discussion based.

Learning Attributes: WR

POS 234 - Model United Nations

4 Credits

This course offers opportunities for academic, career and personal growth for those interested in international affairs and the political arena. Students will work together researching the history, culture and relevant domestic issues of the assigned country, and will learn about one of the most important international organizations in the world: the United Nations. In the process, this class will provide students with the knowledge and leadership skills (i.e., negotiating, team building, public speaking, etc.) to prepare students as delegates to the Model United Nations Conference. In contrast to standard lecture courses, students will be actively involved in team directed preparation and content delivery. Attendance at the Model United Nations Conference is mandatory.

Prerequisite: Registration in this course is by permission only, following an application and selection process that takes place in the Fall Semester.

Learning Attributes: WR

MCC General Education: MCC-GLO - Global Understanding (MGLO)

POS 290 - Independent Study

Variable Credit

See the Department Chairperson.

Learning Attributes: WR