Political Science (POL)

This course introduces basic political concepts used by governments and addresses a wide range of political issues. Topics include political theory, ideologies, legitimacy, and sovereignty in democratic and non-democratic systems. Upon completion, students should be able to discuss a variety of issues inherent in all political systems and draw logical conclusions in evaluating these systems.

This course is a study of the origins, development, structure, and functions of American government. Topics include the constitutional framework, federalism, the three branches of government including the bureaucracy, civil rights and liberties, political participation and behavior, and policy process. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic concepts and participatory processes of the American political system.

This course includes state and local political institutions and practices in the context of American federalism. Emphasis is placed on procedural and policy differences as well as political issues in state, regional, and local governments of North Carolina. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and discuss various problems associated with intergovernmental politics and their effect on the community and the individual.

This course provides a cross-national perspective on the government and politics of contemporary nations such as Great Britain, France, Germany, and Russia. Topics include each country's historical uniqueness, key institutions, attitudes and ideologies, patterns of interaction, and current political problems. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and compare various nations' governmental structures, processes, ideologies, and capacity to resolve major problems.