American Foreign Policy 

This course focuses on the United States and its relationship with other nations in the realm of international affairs.  The semester begins with an overview of objectives and perspectives used to conduct foreign policy.  Following these topics, students consider the historical development of America's place in the global community from the Founding Period to the present.  The latter half of the semester analyzes various policy instruments, including military force, covert operations, economic sanctions, and diplomacy.  A United Nations simulation exercise concludes the course, allowing students an opportunity to put into practice what they have learned about diplomacy and international relations. 

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Comparative Political Systems 

This course provides coverage of several national political systems across the world. Political and social processes, parties, executive, legislative, and constitutional practices will be compared throughout the semester.  Students will learn evaluative concepts necessary to developing an intelligent understanding and appreciation of the world’s diverse political systems. 

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Congressional Politics 

This course focuses on the legislative branch of the United States government.  We begin with a constitutional and historical overview of Congress and then move into understanding congressional campaigns and elections.  We also explore the institutional makeup of the legislative branch, including committee work, leadership, rules and procedures, and decision-making processes.  We end by analyzing the relationship between Congress and other governmental actors.  Students engage in a semester-long simulation exercise simulating the legislative process.  

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Constitutional Law 

This course examines the governmental foundations and individual rights and freedoms at issue in the study of constitutional law. The case method of analysis is utilized, with students routinely briefing landmark and other significant Supreme Court cases.  Following a review of Supreme Court structure and impact, attention turns to various subjects include the Executive Branch, the Contract Clause, the Commerce Power, the Freedom of Speech, and Civil Rights.   The class concludes with a Supreme Court Simulation, with students acting as counsel and judges to further practice critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills.  

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Methods of Social Research 

This course introduces students to various methods often employed in social research.  We begin by defining and conceptualizing science and its place in society, then focus on basic elements of research including conceptualization, measurement, and ethical behavior.  We also consider a host of individual approaches to research such as survey methods, field research and interviewing, content analysis, quantitative methods, and experiments.  By the end of the semester, students  should be better aware of how scholars conduct research so that they better understand and appreciate their chosen field of study.  

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Political Parties and Politics 

An examination of both the theory and practice of party politics.  Particular attention is paid to the changing role of political parties in their accommodations to innovations in the areas of computers, mass media, market research, and new techniques of party finance.  A required assignments allow students to engage in survey research to better understand the historical development of partisan identification. 

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The American Presidency

This course analyzes the executive branch of the United States government.  Topics include the constitutional foundations of the presidency, nomination and election, the development of presidential power, how the executive relates to linkage institutions such as the mass media, political parties, and interest groups, and presidential relations with other branches including Congress and the Judiciary.  A primer on public policy is also given to acquaint students with the executive's role in foreign and domestic matters.