Political Science (POLISCI)

Courses

POLISCI 101   INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL SCIENCE   1 Units

Introduction to Political Science introduces students to the specialties within political science, outlines the academic emphases within the major and associated requirements, and explores public and private sector opportunities in the field of political science.
PREREQ: POLITICAL SCIENCE MAJOR OR MINOR OR LEGAL STUDIES MAJOR OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 141   AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS   3 Units

An introductory course covering the history, structure and functioning of American national government and its relation to state and local government.

POLISCI 200   INTRODUCTION TO PEACE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE   3 Units

Introduction to Peace and Social Justice teaches an interdisciplinary approach to understanding peace -- as more than the absence of war. It explores mulitple ways to create the conditions where social justice can flourish from global to local levels. Themes: non-violence, conflict resolution, human rights, environmental sustainability, and social inequallity
PREREQ: CORE 120 OR CORE 130 OR CORE 140 OR MINIMUM SOPHOMORE STANDING

POLISCI 217   AMERICAN MINORITY POLITICS   3 Units

The central concern of this course is to provide the student an awareness of the political development of racial and ethnic minorities in today's political arena. It will compare and contrast the development of the white ethnic communities of the 19th and 20th centuries with our modern day racial and ethnic minorities.

POLISCI 220   GOVERNMENT IN ACTION: AN INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION   3 Units

A course to introduce students to the concepts and problems of public administration with a focus on government in action. The course emphasizes three key themes: the development of and enduring tensions in American public administration; policy tools through which public administration occurs; and contemporary theories and issues in the management of public organizations and personnel.

POLISCI 240   LAW AND SOCIETY   3 Units

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the development of law and legal practices from a political science perspective. Special emphasis will be paid to the political factors in our society that shape law. The manner in which law affects the politics of our society will also be stressed.

POLISCI 247   ISSUES AND CRISES IN AMERICAN POLITICS   Repeatable   3 Units

An examination of selected major issues and crises confronting the American political system today. Attention will also be given to the response to these issues and crises as reflected in recent policies and proposals of the national government. Repeatable one time (different topic) for a maximum of 6 credits in major/degree, but not repeatable for general studies credit.

POLISCI 250   INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL THEORY   3 Units

An introduction to Western political thought, the role of ideology in politics, and perennial questions in political philosophy.

POLISCI 255   INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE POLITICS   3 Units

This course compares the political systems of five or six countries, reflecting the range of political institutions and political behavior around the world. Students will learn to develop explanations for similarities and differences in the political life of countries around the world, e.g. why are some countries democratic and others authoritarian?

POLISCI 261   AFRICAN-AMERICAN POLITICS   3 Units

The course examines the African-American experience of race, ethnicity, class, and gender within the context of American political landscape. It will therefore explore the unique history, content and forms of African-American political participation as well as their struggle for freedom and equality as full citizens in the workings of various American political institutions.

POLISCI 265   POLITICS OF TERRORISM AND COUNTERTERRORISM   3 Units

This course examines the definitions, sources, patterns, and ideologies of modern terrorism. It then analyzes the objectives of various terrorist organizations as well as their operations, including strategies, tactics, weaponry, financing and state sponsorship. The course concludes by assessing the various counterterrorist measures, with special emphasis on U.S. counterterrorism policy.

POLISCI 266   ASIAN AMERICANS IN U.S. POLITICS   3 Units

This course explores political issues confronting Asian Americans in the United States. The course makes in-depth analysis of political aspects of Asian Americans as voters, as candidates, as activists and as contributors in the political process.

POLISCI 280   POLITICS OF URBAN INEQUALITY IN THE U.S.   3 Units

The course offers a sophisticated depiction of systemic urban inequality that constrains the lives of the urban poor. The readings will feature academic books and research articles that describe and analyze the politics and life experiences in inner-city neighborhoods.

POLISCI 291   TRAVEL STUDY   Repeatable   1-3 Units

Variable topics. Group activity oriented presentations emphasizing `hands on` and participatory instructional techniques.

POLISCI 301   POLITICAL SCIENCE RESEARCH METHODS   3 Units

An introduction to basic research methods in political science. Topics will include various data collection and analysis techniques on the U.S. Presidency, the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court, political socialization, political parties, interest groups, civil violence, rebellion, and revolution. Students will obtain "hands-on" experience with computer software designed specifically for political science and the social sciences. This is not a statistics course, and no previous knowledge of statistical methods is assumed.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

POLISCI 302   WRITING IN POLITICAL SCIENCE   3 Units

This course will allow students to improve their analytical and writing skills through various writing assignments involving different formats. Some of the assignments will involve multiple drafts, based on peer and instructor feedback.
PREREQ: POLISCI 301

POLISCI 314   MEDIA AND AMERICAN POLITICS   3 Units

This course will examine the principles of media and politics, and how the media impacts American public's political attitudes and behaviors. Topics will include campaign advertising, alternative media, public space, bias, and persuasion.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 316   POLICE AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION   3 Units

This course examines the administrative process within the criminal justice setting. Both administrative theories and principles as well as applications to the criminal justice system will be covered.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 317   THE AMERICAN LEGISLATIVE PROCESS   3 Units

The study of the organization and functioning of the legislative bodies, with particular attention to Congress: functions, membership, committee system, executive-legislative relations, pressure groups, lobbying, movement for reform.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 318   THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY   3 Units

Analysis and discussion of the various roles of the President regarding his constitutional status and powers, nomination and election, administrative responsibilities, legislative and political leadership, and his role in the conduct of foreign relations.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 319   AMERICAN POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTIONS   3 Units

This course will examine the development, organization, and functions of political parties and elections in the American political system. Topics include the nature and function of political parties, nominations and elections, political campaigns and campaign finance, voting behavior and party realignment issues, and the role of the party in government policy-making.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 321   AMERICAN INTEREST GROUP POLITICS   3 Units

This course will examine the interest group system in the United States by examining the history, roles, strategies, successes, and failures of interest groups in the American political system.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 330   PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS AND ADVOCACY   3 Units

A systematic introduction to the study of public policy through an analytical problem-solving approach and the use of that evidence-based approach to advocate for policy change. The course will also examine and explore public problems and policy issues.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 331   U.S. DISABILITY POLITICS AND POLICY   3 Units

This course will examine disability politics and policy in the United States with a special emphasis on the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). It will explore the formulation and adoption of disability policy with particular attention paid to the subsequent legal challenges that have interpreted disability law and expanded rights over time.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE OR SPECED 201

POLISCI 340   POLITICS OF DEVELOPMENT   3 Units

This course focuses on the comparative analysis and contending interpretations of development in the developing countries. The analysis also includes the influence of the international economic system as exercised through direct foreign investment and commercial lending institutions.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 341   PARADOXES AND PROMISES: CRITICAL ISSUES IN URBAN EDUCATION   3 Units

This course introduces students to critical issues and policies that influence urban schools, and by extension American society. It provides a deeper understanding of paradoxes and promises we collectively face in making American schools truly equitable institutions, particularly for marginalized communities of color. Trips to regional cities are an enhanced feature of the course and are covered by course fees.
EQUIVALENTS: EDFOUND 341/POLISCI 341

POLISCI 342   SCIENCE POLICY AND HUMAN HEALTH   3 Units

This course will explore the intersections between science, public policy, and human health. A number of controversial scientific issues that have the potential to affect human health will be reviewed, which may include climate change, medical marijuana, genetic engineering and childhood vaccination.
PREREQ: MINIMUM SOPHOMORE STANDING

POLISCI 343   US ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY   3 Units

This course will explore opportunities and constraints in the development of environmental policy in the United States.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING

POLISCI 344   STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT   3 Units

A study of modern American state and local governments, their evolution from colonial beginnings, their problems and their potential. Topics include constitutional revision, the role of governors, legislatures and courts, forms of urban and rural government, and state-local relations.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 345   FEDERALISM   3 Units

This course offers a critical and comparative exploration of orgins, operation, and significance of federalism in a variety of countries.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 348   INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS   3 Units

The course will explore theoretical perspectives as well as the expanding roles of international organizations in the context of global politics. It will provide an overview of the United Nations system, a number of regional organizations, and their contributions to the maintenance of international peace and security.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR
EQUIVALENTS: POLISCI 348/INTRNAR 348

POLISCI 350   INTERNATIONAL LAW   3 Units

A study of international law, its sources, development and content. Selected readings on theory, and form decisions and opinions of the Permanent Court of International Justice and the International Court of Justice.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 351   INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS   3 Units

An introductory survey of political relations among nation-states, including the topics of war and peace, nationalism, elements of national power, conventional and nuclear weaponry, diplomacy, economic interdependence, the Third World, and international and regional organizations.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 352   COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT - EUROPE   3 Units

Comparative analysis of politics in contemporary Europe. Topics covered include the political institutions and political cultures of major states in Europe, nationalism and regionalism in Europe, and the institutions of the European Union.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 356   POLITICAL SOCIOLOGY   3 Units

An analysis of the impact of social cleavages and cohesion on the operation of political institutions; the composition and behavior of power elites; the social base of political power; the social functions of electoral behavior.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS SOCIOLGY OR 3 UNITS POLISCI OR INSTRUCTOR CONSENT
EQUIVALENTS: POLISCI 356/SOCIOLGY 356

POLISCI 357   PUBLIC OPINION AND POLITICAL BEHAVIOR   3 Units

An examination of public opinion in the United States as it concerns political and social behavior. Major topics are the acquisition of beliefs, leadership and opinion formation, voting behavior, and propaganda.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 362   HEALTH AND AGING POLICY   3 Units

The goal of this course is to critically examine U.S. health care policy with an emphasis on aging. The course covers content areas include history and organization of U.S. healthcare delivery systems for all individuals with an emphasis on older adults; U.S. health care policies for all individuals with an emphasis on older adults; health care policy analysis with specific attention focused on older adults.
PREREQ: POLISCI 141 OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 365   BLACK POLITICAL AND SOCIAL THOUGHT   3 Units

This course will utilize a Pan-African approach to provide an organized and systematic pattern of social and political ideologies/thought put forth by Black publicists and theorists concerning the organization of their society. As such, it will survey the principal personalities and major protest movements that have emerged in the Diaspora African Community, as well as pay special attention to selected African ideologies and personalities involved in shaping Black political and social thought.
PREREQ: AFRIAMR 100 OR POLISCI 141 OR RACEETH 217 OR POLISCI 217 OR POLISCI 250

POLISCI 410   ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL POLITICAL THOUGHT: GREEK, ROMAN, CHRISTIAN   3 Units

This course will examine the political thought of the ancient and medieval worlds, focusing on the Greek, Roman and early Christian periods. Through study of texts by Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine, and others, this course will highlight how these texts both reflect their own times, and inform political thinking today.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 411   MODERN POLITICAL THOUGHT   3 Units

An introduction to the principal political concepts and ideas of the modern period, including the writings of Machiavelli, Luther, Calvin, Locke, Hobbes, Rousseau, Hegel, Burke and others.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 412   CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL THOUGHT   3 Units

A study in depth of certain selected topics of contemporary importance, such as the resolution of power conflicts, the theory and practice of nonviolence, and the existentialist dilemma.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 413   CONSTITUTIONAL LAW   3 Units

A study of judicial review, its meaning and nature. The development of constitutional relationships between the national government and the states as well as among the branches of the national government is considered.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 414   THE CONSTITUTION AND CIVIL LIBERTIES   3 Units

A course focusing on the constitutional development of of the freedoms of individuals and the limitations upon the powers of government, both state and national.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 415   CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND THE CONSTITUTION   3 Units

This course examines the role of the major participants in the criminal justice system-defendants, police, prosecutions, courts, and corrections-and the development of constitutional law regulating their behavior.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 416   THE CONSTITUTION AND CIVIL RIGHTS   3 Units

This course focuses on the development of constitutional law in the area of equal rights protections offered by the Fourteenth Amendment and civil rights protections guaranteed by the national government.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 417   POLITICS, JUSTICE, AND LAW   3 Units

In this course students will carefully analyze foundational texts in contemporary legal theory and philosophy, and investigate how the ideas formulated in these texts apply to the world of laws and morality in which we live every day. By the end of the semester students will not only have gained familiarity with these formidable texts, they will also have worked to develop critical reading and thinking skills broadly applicable to their lives outside of the classroom.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 418   LEGAL RESEARCH AND WRITING   3 Units

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to research and writing in the field of public law. Students will learn how to use a variety of legal resource materials and how to cite the materials appropriately. Students will also demonstrate a mastery of these skills by completing homework assignments and by writing two major papers.
PREREQ: POLISCI 413 OR POLISCI 414 OR POLISCI 415 OR POLISCI 416

POLISCI 419   THE JUDICIAL PROCESS   3 Units

A study of the American judicial system as a part of the larger framework of the political, social and economic systems of the nation. Emphasis will be on topics such as the judicial role, judicial organization and jurisdiction, judicial power, and the decisional process rather than legal cases.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 420   AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT   3 Units

A study of the fundamental political ideas of America and the political philosophers who espoused them from colonial times to the present.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 421   PUBLIC PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION   3 Units

A critical study of problems of public personnel, with particular emphasis on the process of recruiting and managing people in the public services.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE
UNREQ: MANGEMNT 220 AND POLISCI 421

POLISCI 422   RELIGION AND AMERICAN POLITICS   3 Units

This course provides an overview of how religion influences American politics, and how the U.S. political process shapes the practice of religion in America. Students will learn about American religious history, religious pluralism, religious political behavior, religious interest groups and social movements, and religion and the U.S. constitution.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 430   FORMATION OF PUBLIC POLICY   3 Units

This course will examine the major public policy problems facing the United States today and the political processes seeking to resolve these problems. Special emphasis to be given to governmental cooperation in seeking to resolve these problems.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 440   THE POLITICS OF GOVERNMENT BUDGETING   3 Units

An introduction to the study of criteria for what services or functions should be undertaken by government and in what amounts; analyzing the effects that government spending and taxes have on the behavior of the private sector and on the political system, and evaluating the problems and solutions for allocating tax burden equitably among different groups in society.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 446   POLITICS OF THE METROPOLIS   3 Units

A treatment of social, economic and political forms, structures, processes and behavior in metropolitan communities. Ideas concerning the power structure and decision-making process, the role of the citizen, and the complex whole of metropolitan life will be discussed.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

POLISCI 456   GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS OF LATIN AMERICA   3 Units

This is a survey course of Latin American government and politics. Major concepts and principles of comparative politics are reviewed and applied to the Latin American context. Country studies may include Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Guatemala, and Venezula.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 457   AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY   3 Units

An analysis of the forces and institutions involved in the establishment of American foreign policies. Emphasis is placed on the effect of the growth of American power and responsibility upon the development of foreign policies.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 460   GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS OF ASIA   3 Units

A comparative study of the political structures, institutions, and processes of the nations of Asia.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 461   GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS OF AFRICA   3 Units

The course will critically analyze the political events, major problems, processes and trends in Sub-Saharan African politics and society. It will also attempt to examine the prospects for economic development and democracy in contemporary Africa. Some African countries will be selected for special attention.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 462   SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY   3 Units

This course is designed to provide students with knowledge about the process of social welfare policy formulation and implementation and with policy analysis skills. The effects of social welfare policies and organizations on both clients (especially the poor and minorities) and on social workers will be emphasized.
PREREQ: POLISCI 141 AND (SOCWORK 371 OR 3 ADDITIONAL UNITS POLISCI) OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 464   GLOBAL GENDER POLITICS   3 Units

This course takes seriously the explanatory power and importance of gender in the study of global politics. It explores the roles of women and men, femininities and masculinities in the shaping, defining, and legitimating of world affairs. Using a critical, interdisciplinary perspective, this course considers how gender helps us better understand security, the global political economy, and global governance.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 471   GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS IN THE MIDDLE EAST   3 Units

An intense investigation of the social, economic, and political conditions of Islamic, Arab and non-Arab countries of the Middle East. Topics include basic tenets of Islam: political culture, formation of nation states, political systems (monarchies and republics), consequences of political development and modernization, and the role of the Middle East in international politics.
PREREQ: MINIMUM SOPHOMORE STANDING OR INSTRUCTOR CONSENT

POLISCI 472   GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS IN CHINA   3 Units

This course exposes students to the breadth of Chinese government and politics. It briefly overviews the traditional Chinese system, its breakdown, and the rise of communism. It also overviews a more detailed treatment of the characteristics and major events of the communist era.
PREREQ: MINIMUM SOPHOMORE STANDING OR INSTRUCTOR CONSENT

POLISCI 480   GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS OF JAPAN   3 Units

This course will present a historic and thematic overview of political development in contemporary Japan. It consists of analysis of japanese postwar politics, government decision-making stuctures and processes, foreign affairs and political economy.
PREREQ: SOPHOMORE STANDING OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 481   COMPARATIVE LAW AND DEVELOPMENT   3 Units

The purpose of this course on comparative law is to explore the main methodological traditions as well as their practical implications in comparing different legal institutions in the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The first part of this course addresses the methodological preferences present at the inception of the discipline of comparative law at the turn of the twentieth century. It addresses the classic distinction between civil law and common law and between continental Europe and Anglo-American legal systems.
PREREQ: THREE UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE OR SOPHOMORE STANDING

POLISCI 489   SEMINAR IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION   3 Units

A study of the complex aspects of administrative organization, behavior and decision-making in the area of public policy through the examination of a variety of pertinent cases.
PREREQ: POLISCI 220 OR CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR

POLISCI 490   WORKSHOP   Repeatable   1-6 Units

Variable topics. Group activity oriented presentations emphasizing `hands on` and participatory instructional techniques. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 credits in major/degree.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

POLISCI 491   TRAVEL STUDY   Repeatable   1-3 Units

Variable topics. Group activity oriented presentations emphasizing `hands on` and participatory instructional techniques.

POLISCI 493   INTERNSHIP IN POLITICAL SCIENCE   Repeatable   1-12 Units

Study and work with a government unit or in some area of public affairs under the direction of a faculty supervisor. Students will have the opportunity to combine academic learning with practical experience in government and politics. Repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits in major/degree.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

POLISCI 496   SPECIAL STUDIES   Repeatable   1-3 Units

Variable topics. Group activity. Not offered regularly in the curriculum but offered on topics selected on the basis of timeliness, need, and interest, and generally in the format of regularly scheduled Catalog offerings. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 credits in major/degree.
PREREQ: 3 UNITS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

POLISCI 497   EXCHANGE STUDY   Repeatable   1-12 Units

Variable topics. See Schedule of Classes.

POLISCI 498   INDEPENDENT STUDY   Repeatable   1-3 Units

Study of a selected topic or topics under the direction of a faculty member. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits in major/degree. Department Consent required.

POLISCI 498R   INDEPENDENT STUDY - UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH   Repeatable   1-3 Units

Study of a selected topic or topics under the direction of a faculty member. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits in major/degree. Department Consent required.

POLISCI 499   SENIOR HONORS THESIS   3 Units

Individual research for majors writing thesis for honors degree; emphasis upon depth, scope and individual research on approved topics under the supervision of a member of the faculty.
PREREQ: 3.25 GPA AND 21 CREDITS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE