Political Science (PS)

PS 520 AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT3 Credits

The main lines of American political thought and ideology will be examined. The Founding era, especially the debates between the Federalists and the Antifederalists, will be emphasized, as will developments in the post-WWII era.

Dual-listed: PS 420

PS 529 ISLAM AND POLITICS3 Credits

The relationship between the religion of Islam and contemporary politics will be analyzed. This relationship will be considered in the context of democratic politics, forms of authoritarian governance, and contentious politics in the Muslim-majority world as well as minority politics in the United States and Western Europe.

Dual-listed: PS 429

PS 530 TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE1-3 Credits

Special topics in Political Science. May be repeated with a change of emphasis.

PS 531 HISTORY OF POLITICAL THOUGHT3 Credits

Various themes in political philosophy will be covered, such as political obligation, rights, freedom and justice. Major philosophers covered will include Plato, Locke and Rousseau.

Dual-listed: PS 431

PS 532 THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS3 Credits

The analysis of the legislative process in Congress and American state legislatures. Emphasis on statute-law making, oversight of the executive and representative function of the legislature, concurrent with an examination of decision-making and legislative norms and roles.

PS 534 CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENCY3 Credits

Examines the structures and processes of Congress and the Presidency, and how the two institutions interact with one another. Topics will include constituency and partisan influences, organizational structures, and decision-making processes in both branches of government. The course will highlight the interdependent and dynamic nature of inter-branch relations, with an emphasis on the evolving constitutional system of the United States.

Dual-listed: PS 434

PS 535 THE PRESIDENCY3 Credits

Examines the institutional development of the presidency. Emphasis is placed on presidential decision making, presidential leadership and the growth of executive power.

PS 539 DEMOCRACY: U.S. AND THE WORLD3 Credits

The concept of political democracy will be critically analyzed in both historical and contemporary discourses. The emergence and evolution of political will be covered with an emphasis on American political culture and institutions and frequent comparisons to other advanced democracies and developing democracies around the world.

Dual-listed: PS 439

PS 655 SCHOLARLY PROJECT1-3 Credits

For students selecting Plan II, as listed under Program Requirements. Project pertaining to a field of specialization. Designed in consultation with the student's graduate committee. Includes paper summarizing the project.

Requirements: Must complete three (3) credit hours.