Course Descriptions

POS 101 - Introduction to Political Science
This course provides an overview of the basic areas of study in the discipline of political science. This course focuses on the nature of both domestic and global politics. This includes an investigation of politics in our everyday lives and citizen-driven political action, the nature and function of politics and government, political philosophy and modern ideologies, variations in political systems, and an analysis of the global system. 3 Credits.

POS 102 - American National Government
This course studies the American political system, including its constitutional foundation, institutions, and contemporary issues. This course examines the history and features of the American government's key institutions while also investigating key events that have shaped the American government today. Attention is also paid to American political culture and the importance of civic engagement. 3 Credits.

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

POS 205 - Comparative Political Systems
This course provides an overview of the analytical concepts and tools used to comparatively study various political systems, cultures, and economies. This includes the descriptive and analytical examination of political systems generally classified as democratic, non-democratic, undergoing transition, and their respective cultures and economies. Particular attention is paid to formal political institutions and political processes, current leadership, the relationship between state and society, and the major public policies of the systems, cultures, and economies under review. 3 Credits.

POS 206 - International Politics
This course critically analyzes the agents and events that characterize the global system. This course aims to give students a fundamental understanding of contemporary international affairs through a systematic examination of theories, concepts, and ideas that explain the politics of the global system. This includes topics relating to foreign policy-making, international security, international political economy, and the important function of international law and organizations. Emphasis will be placed on the role of state and non-state agents, as well as an analysis of both important historical and current events. 3 Credits.

POS 210 - Introduction to Political Thought
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. 3 Credits.

POS 216 - Special Topics in Political Science
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. 3 Credits.

POS 234 - Model United Nations
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. 4 Credits.

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

POS 290 - Independent Study
See the Department Chairperson. Variable Credit.