Study of the use of power in society. The course introduces the student to the nature of political systems at the local, state, national, and international levels. Prerequisite: ENGL1050 (3 credits)

This course covers the concept of citizenship in the community and the nation. Basic political concepts, governing philosophies, and contemporary governmental structures as they pertain to public policy development are studied. Prerequisite: ENGL1050 and ENGL2050 (3 credits)

This course takes an analytical approach to understanding the politics and processes behind environmental regulations and policies. The course focuses primarily on the United States while placing it within the context of broader international environmental frameworks. Students evaluate critical environmental controls that shape things like industry, land development and urban planning. Students also develop important policy analysis methodologies and skills. (4 credits) fall

These courses present topics that are not covered by existing courses and are likely to change from semester to semester. Refer to the semester schedule for the courses offered that semester. Contact the faculty assigned for more information about the course topic. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

This course provides students with an overview of American democracy. Basic political concepts, governing philosophies, and contemporary governmental structures as they pertain to public policy development are studied. In addition to addressing the important role of institutions, politics and the role of non-state actors will be a central component of class discussion. Most importantly, this course seeks to empower students as citizens in a democratic society, and develops the concept of citizenship in the community and the nation. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

This course provides perspectives on identity politics, the complex interaction between the categories of race, class, gender and ethnicity. We will examine the role that race, class, gender and ethnicity play in our politics on a personal, local and national level. In addition to historical and current readings, we will also discuss a foundation on which to conduct analysis of the intersections among issues of race, class and gender. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

This course introduces students to science and technology policy generally, an in particular, it considers the concepts, actors, processes and challenges involved with promoting innovation while regulating new technologies. How do we ensure the protection of public health and safety without dampening innovation? What is the role of government in all of this? What should it be? What are the current scientific questions that are challenging policymakers? Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

A course designed to analyze how nation states interact in the contemporary world. Basic concepts such as sovereignty, national interest and diplomacy will be studied and assessed in relation to the conduct of foreign policy. Case studies will be used to examine and understand the process of modern decision-making and the intelligence and diplomacy upon which it is based. A basic knowledge of modern history or government is recommended. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

Students will come away from this course with an understanding of the international political system and the ability to apply a general conceptual framework and theoretical tools to interpret, analyze and evaluate issues and events in international politics. The twist is that we will be using science fiction - notably the idea of a zombie apocalypse, but also other films and pop culture references - to illustrate important concepts. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

A course by which a student may enlarge his or her knowledge and understanding about the history and traditions of sub-Asia, Africa and Latin America. The purpose of this course is to prepare students for employment in multi-national corporations with overseas divisions and for technical assistance projects in emerging nations. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

This course introduces students to the concepts and theories of international security as well as the ongoing threats worldwide. We consider the policies and politics of international security and how states engage with each other through both war and diplomacy. The course will address traditional threats (including terrorism and weapons of mass destruction), but also new threats to human security (such as international environmental and health threats). Throughout the course, special attention will be given to the ways in which technology plays a role both in creating and mitigating these threats. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits) summer

This course introduces students to urban politics and policy by comparing major cities around the world. It will consider how cities in both the developed and developing world are revolutionizing things like transportation, sustainability, housing, even sanitation. Students will also assess the nature of the “global city” and how major metropolises play an important role in an increasingly globalized world. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)

This course considers the critical role played by the media in democratic political systems. Students will explore the ways in which the media portrays government processes and officials and shape agendas and public opinion. Sources of bias, regulation, and censorship, as well as the role of new medial and political satire are also explored. Prerequisite: Completion of an English Sequence (4 credits)