POL 131   Government and Politics 4 credits

This course introduces the student to mechanics, institutions, problem and principles of American national government. It stresses the relationship of constitutional principles to American political practice. Emphasis is placed on change in the political environment and judicial interpretation of constitutional tenants as major factors in a viable and dynamic American political system. Racial and Ethnic minorities are also examined in this course.

POL 242   Neighborhood and Community Politics 4 credits

It has often been said that "all politics is local." In this class, the students will examine and explore their local political environment: neighborhood, community, block, street, and even backyard. These are the best places for students to learn hands-on about activism, citizenship, politics, and how to impact the political system. This course will cover everything local from buses to bike-lanes; from farmer's markets to dog parks, and from cross walks to composting. Learn more about your own community --how it works, and how you can make a difference.

POL 243   Contemporary Global Problems 4 credits

Survey and examination of the current issues and problems around the world. Course will also discuss themes and approaches in the study of global politics. Students will specifically examine how the current global system is constructed and how nations interact. Topics include contemporary issues like globalization, trade, immigration, war and peace, arms control, terrorism, climate change, and global poverty. This course fulfills the Global Studies General Education requirement.

POL 250   Conventional Politics 2008 1 credit

This course will help participants to understand what is happening during a political convention. Each day of the convention week the class will explore "Conventional Politics" and what it all means. The daily informal sessions will include speakers, presentations, and discussions.

POL 325   U. S. Business History 4 credits

The course will primarily examine the role of business in the American economy from the colonial period to the present. The course will focus on the development of capitalism and the corporation, with an emphasis on the interaction between business firms and other institutions in American life—including labor unions and the government. Students will study business, labor, and other economic institutions starting in the 17th century and ending with the modern global corporation. Topics will include the fur trade, early American industrialization, railroads, the slave economy, the Gilded Age and Progressive Era, labor strife, and the modern corporation.

POL 337   Parties, Campaigns, and Elections 4 credits

Analysis of party organizations, campaigns, and presidential and congressional elections in the United States. Attention will be given to state and local party structures and activities, third-party movements, and historical patterns of voting behavior.

POL 341   The Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. 4 credits

This course will explore the major campaigns, personalities, organizations, and guiding themes of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. This course will focus on the "long civil rights movement"; that portion of the struggle characterized by an organized mass movement(s) from World War II through the 1970s, highlighting the shift from protest to electoral politics. The class will place the civil rights movement within the context of American political, economic, and social institutions. It will also analyze the major historical, sociological, and political debates about the Civil Rights/Black Power movements and place those movements in the broader context of national and international developments.

POL 345   Urban Studies 4 credits

This course will examine a variety of contemporary urban/city issues, problems, and potential solutions. Social, cultural, economic, historical, and political topics will all be covered. The course will be an integral part of the Public Policy program. Specific topics will be listed in the class schedule.

POL 351   Themes in U.S. Politics 4 credits

This class will explore a specific topic or theme selected by the instructor. The course will expand students’ understanding and appreciation of Political Science, relevant American political issues, and the U.S. governmental system.

POL 401   Research and Writing in Political Science 4 credits

This serves as research and writing capstone course for all students in the Political Science program. After reading other scholars' ideas and interpretations in various classes, students will now have the opportunity to research, analyze, and write their own original work of scholarship. Students will do original research projects using primary source materials (government documents, policy reports, newspapers, election data, personal correspondence, etc.), rather than scholarly articles or books. Student can select their own topic, but must work with an instructor. Assessment goals include sound research, adequate content and coverage of the subject, strong critical analysis of sources, and writing style.

POL 487   Readings Seminar: Topics in Political Science 2 credits

Readings/Research Seminar in Political Science covering selected topics. This course will emphasize the use of scholarly and primary source materials, individual research, and student participation.

POL 488   Political Science Ind. Study 1-4 credits

Independent Study provides a more flexible educational experience for the student as well as college credit for work done outside the classroom. These courses are designed and supervised by a faculty member.

POL 498   Internship or Service Learning 2-12 credits

Students participate in an internship or perform a Service Learning project. These sites might include: legislature, government agencies, or other related fields of interest.