This course is an opportunity for students to combine the major theoretical perspectives on the policy process with practical application to current policy issues. Students will gain the theoretical tools to explain policy change, a comprehensive understanding of the actors that influence policymaking and politics, an overview of the major policy issues being debated, and experience writing policy documents.

This course is intended to introduce students to the national institutions and political processes of American government. What are the historical and philosophical foundations of the American Republic? How does American public policy get made, who makes it, and who benefits? Is a constitutional fabric woven in 1787 good enough for today? How, if at all, should American government be changed, and why? What is politics and why bother to study it? If these sorts of questions interest you, then this course will be a congenial home. It is designed to explore such questions while teaching students the basics of American politics and government.

Supervised readings and research in various areas of Political Science. Section numbers must be obtained from the Political Science office.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to complete work on an honors paper should contact the Political Science Department.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to do an independent study should contact the Political Science department.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to do an independent study should contact the Political Science department.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to do an independent study should contact the Political Science department.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to do an independent study should contact the Political Science department.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to do an independent study should contact the Political Science department.

Individual research to be taken under direction of faculty member. Students wishing to do an independent study should contact the Political Science department.