Courses and Syllabi
The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.
Government and International Politics Spring 2026
Undergraduate
GOVT 101: Democratic Theory and Practice (3 Credits)
Comparative exploration; topics include contemporary analysis of the meanings of liberty, equality, representation, property rights, voting rights, and civil responsibilities.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Lecture, Recitation
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 101 - 001: Democratic Theory/Pract — Char R Miller — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Krug Hall 242
- GOVT 101 - 002: Democratic Theory/Pract — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Exploratory Hall (formerly Science and Tech II) L102
GOVT 103: Introduction to American Government (3 Credits)
An overview of key organizing principles of American government, including its institutions, history, and various aspects of political participation.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture, Recitation
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 103 - 001: Intro to American Govt — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Horizon Hall 1014
- GOVT 103 - 002: Intro to American Govt — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM TR - Music Theater Building 1007
- GOVT 103 - DL1: Intro to American Govt — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Online
GOVT 132: Introduction to International Politics (3 Credits)
Nature of international politics, approaches to study of international politics, state and nonstate actors in international system, patterns of action and interaction between nation-states, international institutions, and major global issues.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 132 - 001: Intro International Poli — Peter Mandaville — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM TR - Nguyen Engineering Building 1101
- GOVT 132 - 002: Intro International Poli — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM MW - Horizon Hall 1014
GOVT 133: Introduction to Comparative Politics (3 Credits)
Explores differences in politics and governance across the world. Topics studied include state formation, democracy and authoritarianism, economic development, political participation, political representation, and regime change.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 133 - 001: Intro Comparative Politics — 04:30 PM to 05:45 PM MW - Horizon Hall 2014
- GOVT 133 - 002: Intro Comparative Politics — Eric McGlinchey — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW - Horizon Hall 2008
- GOVT 133 - DL1: Intro Comparative Politics — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Online
GOVT 300: Research Methods and Analysis (4 Credits)
Emphasizes asking clear, researchable questions and using appropriate evidence to answer them. Introduces broad range of evidence including quantitative and qualitative information. Studies design and analysis of surveys, government archives, case studies, and interpretations of events in journals. Examines ethical implications of information technologies. Notes: Required for all majors in government and international politics, and public administration. Strongly recommended before or during first semester of enrolling in 300-level courses.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Info Tech & Computing
Recommended Prerequisite: 60 hours or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 301: Public Law and the Judicial Process (3 Credits)
American judicial organization and operation, role of the Supreme Court in policy formation, and selected constitutional principles.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to CRIM 301.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 301 - 001: Public Law and Jud Process — Kelly K. Richter — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Horizon Hall 1010
- GOVT 301 - DL1: Public Law and Jud Process — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM W - Online
GOVT 304: American State and Local Government (3 Credits)
Nature, organization, functions, and problems of American state and local governments.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 304 - 001: American State and Local Govt — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Horizon Hall 3012
GOVT 308: The American Presidency (3 Credits)
Survey of modern presidency, including constitutional origins of office, growth and influence of White House staff, Cabinet, presidential appointees and control of executive branch, relations with Congress, and domestic and national security policy making.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 308 - 001: The American Presidency — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Horizon Hall 1010
GOVT 318: Interest Groups, Lobbying, and the Political Process (3 Credits)
Examines the role, history, internal operations, strategies, and activities of interest groups, primarily at the federal level. We discuss and evaluate the ability and tools used by interest groups to influence or direct government public policy and enhance the democratic process. Considers conditions under which social movements become, or fail to become, effective interest groups and agents of change.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 318 - DL1: Int Grps/Lobby/Poli Proc — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Online
GOVT 319: Issues in Government and Politics (1-3 Credits)
Studies special issues relevant to government and politics. Topics announced in advance. Examples include politics and the arts, ethnic conflict and the political system, gender politics, and changing dynamics in political institutions. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
7 Sections Currently Scheduled »
- GOVT 319 - 003: Legal Writing — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Horizon Hall 5001
- GOVT 319 - 004: Bridging Political Difference — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW - Horizon Hall 5001
- GOVT 319 - 001: Government/Politics of Russia — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Horizon Hall 4010
- GOVT 319 - 008: Politics of Prisons — Christopher D. Berk — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Horizon Hall 4016
- GOVT 319 - 009: 3rd party Governance — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Thompson Hall 1017
- GOVT 319 - 007: Women and Work — Yevette Richards Jordan — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Thompson Hall 1017
- GOVT 319 - 002: Religion and Law in the U.S. — John Farina — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Lecture Hall 2
GOVT 322: International Relations Theory (3 Credits)
Advanced inquiry into international relations. Studies theories, concepts of international relations, and major forces and issues in international politics.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132 or 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 322 - 002: Intl Relations Theory — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Blue Ridge Hall 129
- GOVT 322 - DL1: Intl Relations Theory — Eric B Shiraev — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM MW - Online
GOVT 324: Modern Western Political Theory (3 Credits)
Lectures, discussions of developments in Western tradition of political thought from Renaissance to mid-19th century. Topics include rise of individualism in political theory, early developments in social contact theory, theories of radical popular sovereignty, and early criticisms of liberal theory.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to PHIL 324.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, or three credits of Philosophy.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 324 - 001: Modern Western Pol Thry — Kurt Brandhorst — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW - Aquia Building 213
GOVT 327: Contemporary Western Political Theory (3 Credits)
Lectures, discussions of developments in Western tradition of political thought from mid-19th century to today. Different sections focus on various political theories that have been influential during this period, such as liberal, libertarian, conservative, communitarian, Marxist, feminist, and postmodern thought. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits. Equivalent to PHIL 327.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101 or three credits of Philosophy.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 327 - 001: Contemp Western Pol Thry — Char R Miller — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM MW - Planetary Hall 127
GOVT 329: Issues in Political Theories and Values (1-3 Credits)
Studies special issues relevant to theoretical and value aspects of government and politics. Topics announced in advance. Examples include ethics and politics, ethics and environmental policy, changing perspectives on civil rights and liberties, religion and politics, and changing views of public space. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 329 - 001: Fed Oversight & Investigations — Kelly K. Richter — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - Horizon Hall 5001
- GOVT 329 - DL1: Nonviolent Civil Resistance — Derek Sweetman - Online
- GOVT 329 - 004: Religion and American Politics — John Farina — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Lecture Hall 2
GOVT 331: Politics of Latin America (3 Credits)
Contemporary politics, foreign policy, and society in Latin America. Presents critical issues relevant to all countries within the region, such as democratization, development promotion, responses to human rights abuses, and national and international security.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 331 - 001: Politics of Latin America — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Aquia Building 347
GOVT 334: Politics of Europe (3 Credits)
Examines governance and politics in Europe at the national and supranational (European Union) levels, with an emphasis on actors, institutions, processes, and behavior. Explores key policies in a variety of fields, such as climate, migration, and economic and monetary union, as well as the impact of recent crises.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 334 - 001: Politics of Europe — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM TR - Horizon Hall 1010
GOVT 342: Diplomacy (3 Credits)
Origins of organized diplomacy: tasks, procedures, instruments, and problems of diplomacy. Emphasizes current, future roles of diplomacy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 342 - DL1: Diplomacy - Online
- GOVT 342 - 001: Diplomacy — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM TR
GOVT 346: American Security Policy (3 Credits)
Approaches U.S. National security policy from perspective of organization and implementation of specific policies. Applies theoretical concerns to historic cases to illuminate problems that continue to challenge country.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 346 - 001: American Security Policy — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M
GOVT 347: International Security (3 Credits)
Explores enduring security problems and new developments. Examines effects of international system on defense policies of states, particularly tensions of world caught between emerging interdependence and national demands. Encourages development of critical-thinking and group and oral presentation skills.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 347 - DL1: International Security — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Online
GOVT 351: Administration in the Political System (3 Credits)
Administrative structures and processes in political setting of public management. Presents organization and administrative theory, critiques, and current practices; and examines impact of changes in social, political, and economic environment on concepts, models.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 351 - DL1: Admin in the Political System — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM TR - Online
GOVT 355: Public Personnel Administration (3 Credits)
Analyzes techniques and tools in human resource management including merit system, classification, compensation, evaluation, recruitment, and labor relations. Emphasizes current legal and policy issues in personnel administration, such as diversity and privatization.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 351.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 355 - 001: Public Personnel Admin — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Thompson Hall 1017
GOVT 358: Nonprofit Financial Planning (4 Credits)
Equips students aspiring to take a leadership role in the nonprofit sector with essential financial management and planning skills. Explores the unique balance between social missions and entrepreneurial demands that shape financial planning and accounting in nonprofits. Key topics include budgeting, cost analysis, financial statement interpretation, revenue sources and projections, and internal control systems.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: 60 credits or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 358 - DL1: Nonprofit Financial Plan — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM T - Online
GOVT 364: Public Policy Making (3 Credits)
Provides an introduction to the public policy process by exploring how policies are designed, implemented, and evaluated, why certain issues gain policy attention while others do not, and what contributes to the relative success or failure of different policies. . Topics include an overview of public policy and its relationship with politics, the stages of policy development, the key actors and dynamics involved, and the factors influencing policy outcomes.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 364 - DL1: Public Policy Making — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - Online
GOVT 399: Research Practicum (1-3 Credits)
Applies research methods in context of assisting with faculty research. Individualized sections taught by arrangement with full-time faculty. Methods adopted vary, but generally include library research, data collection, data analysis, and report construction.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300 and Permission of Instructor.
Schedule Type: Research
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 399 - 004: Jurisprudence LC — 04:30 PM to 05:45 PM R - Horizon Hall 4014
- GOVT 399 - 005: Jurisprudence LC — 04:30 PM to 05:45 PM M - Peterson Hall 1105
GOVT 407: Law and Society (3 Credits)
Examines the dynamic relationship between law and society, focusing on the nature and function of law, its historical development, and its role in shaping and responding to social change. Students will explore various theoretical frameworks and methodologies for understanding how law influences social behavior, structures, and values, while also assessing how social forces impact the creation, interpretation, and evolution of laws.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: CRIM 100 or GOVT 301.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 407 - 001: Law and Society — Kelly K. Richter — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Planetary Hall 126
GOVT 422: Constitutional Interpretation (3 Credits)
Explores how the U.S. Supreme Court interprets the constitutions, focusing on decisions regarding the constitutional powers of Congress, the presidency, and the judiciary. Students will analyze landmark rulings on the relationship between the federal government and the states, with particular emphasis on issues like state regulation, taxation, and interstate relations.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 422 - 001: Constitutional Interpretation — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Horizon Hall 2010
GOVT 427: Feminist Political Thought (3 Credits)
Explores feminist political thought in historical context. Topics include feminist political movements, feminist critiques of political philosophy, and feminist contributions to political theory.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, WMST 200, 3 credits of PHIL, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
GOVT 434: Democracy in Global Perspective (3 Credits)
Analyzes how democracy is practiced globally by comparing it with other political systems and studies why democracy succeeds or fails in different regions of the world. . Examines the phenomenon of democratic waves, democratic transitions, and how democracy is shaped by economics, culture, gender, media and technology, electoral and party systems, social and transnational movements.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 434 - 001: Democracy-Global Perspec — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW
GOVT 444: Issues in International Studies (1-3 Credits)
Major issues in international systems, including international political economy and security. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 444 - DL1: History of Taiwan — Gerrit van der Wees — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Online
- GOVT 444 - 002: Israel and Palestine — Peter Mandaville — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Thompson Hall 1017
- GOVT 444 - DL2: Narco-Terrorism — Mahmut Cengiz - Online
GOVT 445: Human Rights (3 Credits)
Explores philosophical, legal, and political issues at heart of modern international human rights movement. Examines historical background legal architecture of modern human rights movement.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 445 - 001: Human Rights — Derek Sweetman — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM TR
- GOVT 445 - DL2: Human Rights — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM R - Online
GOVT 446: International Law and Organization (3 Credits)
Examines the contrast between international and domestic law and the relationship between world politics and international law. Focuses on issues such as use of force, human rights, environment, international trade and diplomacy. Explores the philosophical groundings of international law, the role of multilateral institutions such as the UN, and international tribunals such as the ICJ in anchoring the international system.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 446 - 003: Intl Law/Organization — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM TR
- GOVT 446 - DL2: Intl Law/Organization - Online
GOVT 447: Revolution and International Politics (3 Credits)
Historical overview of modern revolutions as well as different theories about causes and consequences of revolutions. Special attention to Marxist-Leninist, Arab nationalist, and Islamic revolutions.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 447 - 001: Revolution/Internatnl Politics — Albert Kim — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Art & Design Building 2026
GOVT 464: Issues in Public Policy and Administration (1-3 Credits)
Analyzes selected policy issues in administering public policies. Topics announced in advance. Examples include environmental policy, government regulation, federal mandates, state policy, and regional policy. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103 plus 60 credits.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 464 - 001: Energy/Climate Law and Policy — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 318
- GOVT 464 - 002: Ethics in Public Policy — Andrew Light — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 467
GOVT 480: Internship (3 Credits)
Approved internships with specific employer. Programs relate in some capacity to government, politics, public policy, or the law. For 3 credits, a minimum of 135 hours is required. 3 credits of GOVT 480 may be applied to field study requirements. No more than 6 credits of GOVT 480 may be applied toward a student's 120 (Schar) degree applicable credits.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, GOVT 103, GOVT 132, and GOVT 133.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 480 - DL1: Internship - Online
- GOVT 480 - DL2: Internship - Online
GOVT 490: Synthesis Seminar (3 Credits)
Readings, individual or group projects, and discussion of papers reflecting on connections between liberal arts and sciences and political world. Notes: Course topic varies by semester.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300 and 18 credits in major.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Administration of Justice, Global Affairs, Government and Politics, Government & Intl Politics, International Studies, International Security & Law or Public Administration.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 319: Issues in Government and Politics (1-3 Credits)
Studies special issues relevant to government and politics. Topics announced in advance. Examples include politics and the arts, ethnic conflict and the political system, gender politics, and changing dynamics in political institutions. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
7 Sections Currently Scheduled »
- GOVT 319 - 003: Legal Writing — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Horizon Hall 5001
- GOVT 319 - 004: Bridging Political Difference — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW - Horizon Hall 5001
- GOVT 319 - 001: Government/Politics of Russia — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Horizon Hall 4010
- GOVT 319 - 008: Politics of Prisons — Christopher D. Berk — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Horizon Hall 4016
- GOVT 319 - 009: 3rd party Governance — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Thompson Hall 1017
- GOVT 319 - 007: Women and Work — Yevette Richards Jordan — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Thompson Hall 1017
- GOVT 319 - 002: Religion and Law in the U.S. — John Farina — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Lecture Hall 2
GOVT 327: Contemporary Western Political Theory (3 Credits)
Lectures, discussions of developments in Western tradition of political thought from mid-19th century to today. Different sections focus on various political theories that have been influential during this period, such as liberal, libertarian, conservative, communitarian, Marxist, feminist, and postmodern thought. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits. Equivalent to PHIL 327.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101 or three credits of Philosophy.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 327 - 001: Contemp Western Pol Thry — Char R Miller — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM MW - Planetary Hall 127
GOVT 329: Issues in Political Theories and Values (1-3 Credits)
Studies special issues relevant to theoretical and value aspects of government and politics. Topics announced in advance. Examples include ethics and politics, ethics and environmental policy, changing perspectives on civil rights and liberties, religion and politics, and changing views of public space. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 329 - 001: Fed Oversight & Investigations — Kelly K. Richter — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - Horizon Hall 5001
- GOVT 329 - DL1: Nonviolent Civil Resistance — Derek Sweetman - Online
- GOVT 329 - 004: Religion and American Politics — John Farina — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Lecture Hall 2
GOVT 444: Issues in International Studies (1-3 Credits)
Major issues in international systems, including international political economy and security. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 444 - DL1: History of Taiwan — Gerrit van der Wees — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Online
- GOVT 444 - 002: Israel and Palestine — Peter Mandaville — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Thompson Hall 1017
- GOVT 444 - DL2: Narco-Terrorism — Mahmut Cengiz - Online
GOVT 464: Issues in Public Policy and Administration (1-3 Credits)
Analyzes selected policy issues in administering public policies. Topics announced in advance. Examples include environmental policy, government regulation, federal mandates, state policy, and regional policy. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103 plus 60 credits.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 464 - 001: Energy/Climate Law and Policy — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 318
- GOVT 464 - 002: Ethics in Public Policy — Andrew Light — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 467
Graduate
GOVT 510: American Government and Politics (3 Credits)
Examines institutions and processes of American government, including separate institutions of power in national government, theory and practice of federal system, role of interest groups and political parties, and effects of media and public opinion on electoral behavior and policy making. Seminar examining normative and empirical research.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Political Science.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 510 - DL1: Amer Government/Politics — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM T - Online
GOVT 520: Political Theory (3 Credits)
Analyzes selected major works of ancient, modern, or contemporary political theory that illuminate basic problems and questions for people engaged in political or civic life. Examines justice, liberty, equality, autonomy, rights, obligation, participation, and nature of politics.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to the MA in political science or permission of department.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 520 - 001: Political Theory — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 308
GOVT 540: International Relations (3 Credits)
Focuses on changing structure of international politics, post-Cold War security issues, effect of globalized economy and information technology revolution, enhanced role of global corporations and nongovernmental organizations, and rise of nonsecurity issues in emerging international agenda.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 540 - 001: International Relations — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 481
- GOVT 540 - 002: International Relations — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 477
- GOVT 540 - DL2: International Relations — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Online
GOVT 631: Seminar in Comparative Politics and Institutions (3 Credits)
Examines theories and practices of governance and development in comparative national settings. Course explores key subsets of the comparative politics literature in depth, including institutional change, regime types and transitions, democracy and authoritarianism, states and state-society relations, revolution, social movements, political cultures, and methods. Course is explicitly conceptual and cross-regional. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 631 - 001: Authoritarianism — Eric McGlinchey — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M
- GOVT 631 - 002: Post Conflict Justice/Security — Jo-Marie Burt — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Van Metre Hall (formerly Founders Hall) 477
GOVT 745: International Security (3 Credits)
Examines interplay of international politics and international security. Discusses theoretical perspectives and analytical tools in academic field of international security, and applies theories and tools to nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons, strategy and defense, and arms control. How domestic issues affect defense policies, terrorism, changing nature of international conflict, and human security will be examined.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 540.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- GOVT 745 - 001: International Security — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R
- GOVT 745 - DL1: International Security — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Online