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University at Albany Undergraduate Bulletin - 2005-2006

Introductory Courses in Political Science

R Pos 100 Introduction to Political Science (3)

This course introduces students to political science and its major fields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory. The course seeks to expose students to the study of social science, to introduce students to college learning.

R Pos 101 American Politics (3)

Introduction to the study of politics, focusing on American national government. Includes some discussion of theoretical questions (such as authority, representation and consent) and some illustrative examples from the area of comparative and international politics. R Pos 101Z is a writing intensive version of R Pos 101. [SS US]

R Pos 101Z American Politics (4)

Introduction to the study of politics, focusing on American national government. Includes some discussion of theoretical questions (such as authority, representation and consent) and some illustrative examples from the area of comparative and international politics. R Pos 101Z is a writing intensive version of R Pos 101. [SS US WI]

R Pos 102 Comparative and International Politics (3)

The characteristics and development of statehood and power; conditions of stability; constitutions and the comparative political processes; the international order and the nation-state system. R Pos 102Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 102. [GC SS]

R Pos 102Z Comparative and International Politics (3)

The characteristics and development of statehood and power; conditions of stability; constitutions and the comparative political processes; the international order and the nation-state system. R Pos 102Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 102. [GC WI]

R Pos 103 Political Theory (3)

An introductory course in the history of political theory with an emphasis on understanding political ideas and concepts and applying them to perennial issues of political life. R Pos 103Z is a writing intensive version of R Pos 103. [HU SS]

R Pos 103Z Political Theory (4)

An introductory course in the history of political theory with an emphasis on understanding political ideas and concepts and applying them to perennial issues of political life. R Pos 103Z is a writing intensive version of R Pos 103. [HU SS WI]

Survey and Topical Courses

R Pos 140 (= R Pub 140) Introduction to Public Policy (3)

Introduction to theories of how democracies make public policy. Describes the roles of government institutions, the media, and interest groups in the policy process. Reviews current theories of how problems are identified and how policies are formulated, enacted, and implemented to address public problems. Prerequisite(s): Only one of R Pub 140 and R Pos 140 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 203 Political Thought (3)

Original works in the history of Western political thought, emphasizing the relevance of this material for understanding political concepts, reflecting on political problems, and critically analyzing contemporary political institutions and ideas.

R Pos 204 Selected Problems in Political Science (3)

Selected problems pertaining to political science and/or public policy. May be repeated if the selected problem is substantially changed. R Pos 204Z is a writing intensive version of R Pos 204.

R Pos 204Z Selected Problems in Political Science (3)

May be repeated if the selected problem is substantially changed. R Pos 204Z is a writing intensive version of R Pos 204. [WI]

R Pos 340 (= R Pub 340) Introduction to Policy Analysis (3)

Policy analysis involves advising policy makers about political, technical, and implementation feasibility of their options. This course will introduce students to different roles played by analysts, techniques of analysis, and to the range of generic policy implements. Only one of R Pos 340 & R Pub 340 may be taken for credit. [SS]

Courses in American Politics

R Pos 319 American Political Development (3)

A study of the historical shaping of American politics. Encompassing institutions, public policies, political culture, and political economy, American Political Development uncovers patterns of political stability and change. It explores critical episodes in American political history in a theoretically-informed fashion. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101.

R Pos 320 American Federalism (3)

This course focuses on the theoretical, constitutional, and political dimensions of American federalism, including the tensions between the planes of government, interstate relations, and the problem-solving capabilities of the federal system. Particular emphasis is placed upon the formal powers of each plane of government and the limitations upon these powers. The reasons for and the political significance of the increasing use of preemption powers by the Congress will be examined.

R Pos 321 (= R Pub 321; formerly R Pos 205) State and Local Government (3)

Course focus is on intergovernmental relations; the interdependent roles of governors, legislatures, and courts in policymaking and implementation; the organization, functions, and jurisdiction of local governments; interaction of political parties and interest groups with formal institutions and processes; and problems in selected functional areas. Emphasis will be placed upon socio-economic trends leading to change in state and local governments, consequent issues raised, and proposals made in response to such issues. Only one of R Pos 321 and R Pub 321 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 323 Urban Government (3)

Examines governmental patterns in major urban areas of the United States. Considers the nature of a municipal corporation, forms of government, state-local relations, and urban politics.

R Pos 324 (= A Lcs 375) Latino Politics in the United States (3)

Examines Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban political participation, perspectives, and values. Each sub-group is analyzed and compared to African Americans and whites. The approach of the course is theoretical, historical, and interpretive.

R Pos 325 (= R Pub 325) The Government and Politics of New York State (3)

Introduction to the major political governmental institutions in New York. Examines the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government; the nature of parties and election, and of selected policy questions. Only one of R Pos 325 & R Pub 325 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 321.

R Pos 329 (= R Pad 329) Bureaucratic Politics (3)

Examination of political behavior within and among administrative agencies, focusing on the sources of power in the bureaucracy and the ways in which agencies use their political resources to shape public policy. Only one of R Pos 329 and R Pad 329 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 331 American Legislatures (3)

Examination of the legislative function in the American political system. Inquiry into the sources of legislative power, the institutions involved in formulating legislation, and the people who participate in the legislative process. This course is recommended for students contemplating a legislative internship.

R Pos 332 The Presidency (3)

The principal institutions, functions and problems of the executive branch of government. Emphasizes the President as political leader, head of state, and administrator, as well as on his relations with Congress.

R Pos 334 American Political Parties and Groups (3)

Examination of the theory, organizational forms and dynamics of political group formation and activity, with special attention given to the political party system, interest groups, political leadership and electoral behavior.

R Pos 337 Campaigns and Elections in U.S. (3)

This course will examine how people run for office in the United States. We will examine elections for the presidency, Congress, etc. Topics will include the decision to run prenomination and general election campaigns; the role of parties; interest groups; media; campaign finance; advertising and other campaign techniques. The assignments also include historical comparisons to consider what makes some elections more significant than others. We need to ask what elections really decide besides who holds office. Ultimately, the basic issue is whether the structure and content of U.S. elections fosters or distorts democratic representation.

R Pos 341 Washington in Perspective (3)

A course using current government and politics to evaluate political science treatments of the subject. Offered as part of the department's spring Washington Semester program. Admission by application. Preference given Pos Honors students; other majors and nonmajors admitted up to enrollment cap. Brochures, applications, informational meeting dates, available from department. Deadlines and interviews in the early fall. Prerequisites: R Pos 101 or 101Z, one 300 course in American government, junior class standing. Co-requisites: R Pos 342 and 495Z. Counts toward a political science major or minor.

R Pos 365 Government and the Mass Media (3)

Study of the relation of the mass media to the American political process, including an examination of the effect of the mass media on legislative actions, the executive, voting behavior and the bureaucracy.

R Pos 406Z (= R Pub 406Z) Implementation and Impact (3)

Examination of the process by which policies are put into effect, alterations during that process; effects, intended and unintended; and feedback into further policy making. Implementation and impact of legislative, administrative and judicial policies, in particular policy areas. Only one of R Pos 406Z & R Pub 406Z may be taken for credit. [WI]

R Pos 410Z (= R Pub 410Z) Minorities and the Politico-Legal System (3)

Selected minority problems that appear in connection with the politico-legal system. Considers legislative, administrative and judicial responses and explores alternative public policy options. Only one of R Pos 410Z & R Pub 410Z may be taken for credit. [WI]

R Pos 424 Community Politics (3)

Examines the bases of power at the local level. Political power, social stratification and technology are discussed within a historical and contemporary context. Recommended: prior course in state and local government.

R Pos 430 Founding the American National Government (3)

Many contemporary disputes in American politics reflect ongoing debates that were first articulated clearly during the drafting and ratification of the Constitution in 1787. (Some examples: war powers, small versus large government, governmental concern with character formation or morality, factions and the common good, direct democracy versus representation, the role of "elites", etc.) This course will examine the founding debates closely, linking specific decisions to some of the broad themes just mentioned. It will also use student papers to carry the disputes through the early years of the government. The course will require interpretive papers based on assigned reading, and one research paper based on primary source documentation. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing.

R Pos 433 (= A Wss 433) Women, Politics, and Power (3)

Examines the role of women within American society; identifies the systematic factors that have contributed to women's sociopolitical exclusion; and investigates selected contemporary ideologies that posit a redefinition of the power relationships within society as the primary political objective. R Pos 433Z & A Wss 433Z are the writing intensive versions of R Pos 433 & A Wss 433; only one of the four courses may be taken for credit.

R Pos 433Z (= A Wss 433Z) Women, Politics, and Power (3)

R Pos 433Z & A Wss 433Z are the writing intensive versions of R Pos 433 & A Wss 433; only one of the four courses may be taken for credit. [WI]

R Pos 435Z Congress and the Presidency (3)

An examination of the dynamic political inter-relationship between the elected branches of government. Specific topics may vary from year to year, but typical ones would include: the President's legislative role; Congress's role in foreign and national security policy; the budget as a vehicle for interbranch conflict; and proposals for institutional reform. Short, theme papers and a longer research paper will be required. Some previous course work on Congress or the Presidency is recommended. [WI]

R Pos 438Z Political Behavior (3)

Politically relevant behaviors are discussed in terms of their psychological and sociological determinants. Emphasizes manifest and latent political training in numerous contexts. [WI]

R Pos 439 Topics in American Politics (3)

Special topics course in American politics. Topics will vary from semester to semester.

R Pos 439Z Topics in American Politics (3)

R Pos 439Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 439; only one may be taken for credit. Special topics course in American politics. Topics will vary from semester to semester. [WI]

R Pos 495Z Research and Writing in Washington (4)

This is the term paper research and writing component of the department's spring Washington Semester program. Admission by application. Preference given Pos Honors students; other majors and nonmajors admitted up to enrollment cap. Brochures, applications, informational meeting dates, available from department. Deadlines and interviews in the early fall. Prerequisites: R Pos 101 or 101Z, one 300 course in American government, junior class standing. Co-requisites: R Pos 341 and 342. Counts as an honors seminar or writing intensive course toward a political science major or minor. [WI]

Courses in Global Politics

R Pos 349 (= A Lcs 349) Urban Politics in Latin America (3)

This course examines from a theoretical and historical perspective the context and character of politics and political participation in major Latin American urban cities.

R Pos 350 (= R Pub 350) Comparative Public Policy (3)

Comparison of the processes, content and impact of public policy in both developed and underdeveloped, socialist and nonsocialist countries. Only one of R Pos 350 & R Pub 350 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z or R Pos 240 or R Pub 240, or junior or senior class standing.

R Pos 351 European Politics (3)

Politics and political change in contemporary Europe, as reflected in ideology, organization and leadership. Both Western and Eastern Europe are treated in a common, comparative framework.

R Pos 353 Developing Political Systems (3)

A study of political development and modernization in The Third World of Asia, Africa and Latin America; the meanings and measurement of the concepts; groups involved in the process such as the military, bureaucracies, intellectuals, minorities and charismatic leaders.

R Pos 354 Russian Domestic Politics (3)

In-depth study of Russian and Soviet internal politics, 1861 to the present. Emphasizes the activities of the Communist party of the Soviet Union-political, economic and ideological-and changing characteristics of the Soviet political system. Equal attention to the origins of the Communist party and to the Lenin, Stalin, Khrushchev, Brezhnev, Andropov, Gorbachev and Yeltsin eras.

R Pos 355 Government and Politics in Sub-Saharan Africa (3)

The relationship between ideologies, institutions and individuals in African political systems. Examines implications of these factors for African political behaviors (domestic and international). [GC]

R Pos 356 Russian Foreign Policy (3)

Survey of Soviet and Russian activities in international relations, 1917 to the present. Attention is focused on the Soviet Union's relations with Western Europe, Eastern Europe, China, the developing nations, and the United States, and contemporary Russian policy. Previous study of Soviet internal politics is desirable, but not a prerequisite.

R Pos 357 (= A Lcs 357) Latin American Politics (3)

The domestic political institutions, the forces which shape the quest for power, and the processes by which public policies are determined in Latin America. Only one of R Pos 357 & A Lcs 357 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 359 (= A Jst 359) Israeli Politics (3)

In-depth study of the political system of Israel: its history, social and political cleavages, governing institutions and persistent problems. Only one of R Pos 359 & A Jst 359 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 361 Comparative Ethnicity (3)

The composition and problems of various ethnic and religious minorities: their origins, characteristics, political mobilization, and degree of integration into the social and political systems of the new post-colonial nations of Asia, Africa, and Latin America examined against a background of European, American, and Russian experience. [GC WI]

R Pos 362 Nationalism and Nation-Building (3)

Classical and recent scholarly debates regarding nationalism and nation-building: theoretical and historical evolution of nationalism, nationalist movements, and nation-building; some of the most salient contemporary issues related to the national question, including the effects of globalization and the resurgence of nationalist movements in the post-Cold War era.

R Pos 364 Building Democracy (3)

A key shift in politics around the world has been the increasing number of democracies. This shift has important implications for everything from human rights to economic policy. This course will explore the causes and effects of democratization focusing on topics such as political economy, international pressures, and coalition building.

R Pos 370 International Relations: Theory (3)

The uses of theory in observing the interaction patterns found in the international system. Examines concepts of equilibrium, conflict and nationalism. Theoretical propositions about power, war and diplomacy are tested and counter-theories formulated. [GC]

R Pos 371 International Relations: Practice (3)

Fundamental procedures of interstate and transnational relations. The historical evolution of the international system, statecraft, the use of force, negotiation and diplomacy, alliance formation, and nationalism and imperialism. Note: R Pos 370 is not a prerequisite for R Pos 371. [GC]

R Pos 373 (= A Eac 373) Government and Politics in the People's Republic of China (3)

Examination of the origins of the Communist movement in China against the backdrop of the decline of dynastic rule and the era of Western imperialism. The implications of ideology, institutions, and individuals of ideology, institutions and individuals for public policy in the People's Republic of China. [BE]

R Pos 375 International Organization (3)

The structure and processes of the United Nations evaluated in terms of its historical antecedents and the challenges that face it. The operational foundations of the specialized agencies and such other governmental organizations as are universal in character. Close attention to the forces and interest groups of international scope to which the United Nations and related organizations respond.

R Pos 376 The Foreign Policy of the People's Republic of China (3)

The post-1949 foreign policy of the People's Republic of China, especially vis-�-vis the United States, the Soviet Union, Western Europe, Japan and an array of developing countries.

R Pos 380 Basics of International Law (3)

Analytical survey of the precedents and limitations of world law. The uses of law for the pacific settling of disputes and wars using varied texts, cases and documents.

R Pos 383 American Foreign Policy (3)

An examination of the patterns of American foreign policy in economic and security issues from the turn of the century through the end of the Cold War. This analysis provides the basis for discussion of the prospects for American foreign policy as we move into the 21st century.

R Pos 384 Formulation of American Foreign Policy (3)

Introduction to the political institutions and values of the American foreign policy process. Issues considered: American national character; the search for national interests; the role of interest groups and public opinion; the Congress; the presidency; the military-industrial complex; the policy system in times of peace and Cold War.

R Pos 395 (= R Pub 395) International Political Economy (3)

Examines world trade conflicts and impact of economic nationalism on global economy. Emphasizes U.S. policy formulation in recent decades and trade protection and economic nationalism as exercised in U.S. domestic and foreign policy. Only one of R Pub 395 & R Pos 395 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 396 (= R Pub 396) Energy Policy, Domestic and International (3)

Analyzes present and future shortfall of energy supplies, availability of fuel sources to replace imported oil or U.S. energy production, and conflicts between OPEC, OECD consumers, and U.S. government. Projections of future conflict over energy controls within and between nation states. Only one of R Pub 396 & R Pos 396 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z or R Pos 240 or R Pub 240, or junior or senior class standing.

R Pos 398 (= R Pub 398) Comparative National Security Policy (3)

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major theoretical explanations for the foundation and implementation of national security policy. The course will focus on two central questions. First, what determines the basic security strategy of different states? Second, once this strategy is mapped, how do different states translate strategy into particular defense policies? A variety of historical cases will be used to determine which theories best answer these questions. Only one of R Pos 398 & R Pub 398 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 450Z Theory and Research on Global Politics (3)

The course will focus on how comparative and international politics is researched. The theories of one global politics topic will be studied in depth (the topic will change each semester). Students who successfully complete the course will be eligible to do independent studies as research assistants for Global Politics faculty. [WI]

R Pos 452Z Communist and Post-Communist Political Systems (3)

The characteristics of East European regimes in the modern world: the role of the political parties; the state and bureaucracy, mostly after World War II and in the aftermath of the collapse of communism; relations of these states in the world political system. [WI]

R Pos 469 Topics in Comparative Politics (3)

Special topics course in Comparative Politics. R Pos 469Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 469; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in Comparative Politics or permission of instructor.

R Pos 469Z Topics in Comparative Politics (3)

Special topics course in Comparative Politics. R Pos 469Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 469; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in Comparative Politics or permission of instructor. [WI]

R Pos 472Z International Conflict and Resolution (3)

An inquiry that includes strategic studies, arms control, foreign policy, and super power relations in the global threat system. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z, 102, 370 or 371, and junior or senior class standing. [WI]

R Pos 473Z Economic Relations in the Global System (3)

An inquiry into international trade relations, energy and foreign economic policies adopted by industrial and developing nations, and the exchange relations that govern the course of transnational politics. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z, 102, and junior or senior class standing. [GC WI]

R Pos 479 Topics in International Relations (3)

Special topics course in International Relations. R Pos 479Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 479; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in International Relations or permission of instructor.

R Pos 479Z Topics in International Relations (3)

Special topics course in International Relations. R Pos 479Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 479; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in International Relations or permission of instructor. [WI]

 

Courses in Political Theory

R Pos 301 History of Political Theory I (3)

An examination of classical texts in political theory from ancient Greece to the 15th century. [EU]

R Pos 302 History of Political Theory II (3)

An examination of classical text in modern political thought from the Renaissance to the 19th century. [EU]

R Pos 306 Contemporary Democratic Theory (3)

An historical and analytical examination of modern conceptions of democracy. The course will focus on the meaning of democracy, the justifications for democratic self- governments and the variety of models that have been offered as the realization of a democratic society and their forms of democratic legitimization. [HU]

R Pos 307 American Political Theory (3)

The development of political thought and action in the American experience.

R Pos 308 Theorists and Theorizing (3)

This course will focus on the work of a single political theorist. Students will become acquainted with the major writings of one theorist who has been chosen both for the historical and contemporary significance of his/her thought and for the purpose of learning the value of in-depth study of works that have such a significance. Along with studying the work of a major theorist, students may examine the different interpretations of that work and the conflicts and problems that arise in the practice of interpretation. May be repeated for credit if topic varies.

R Pos 310 Contemporary Political Philosophy (3)

Analysis of selected perspectives in the political and social thought of the 19th and 20th centuries.

R Pos 313 Feminist Social and Political Thought (3)

The major documents of American, English and Continental feminist thought. Emphasizes chronological development and continuity and change in feminist theory. Particular attention to the directions feminism has taken since the 1960's.

R Pos 314 Problems of Political Inquiry (3)

Introduction to the discipline of political science and contemporary approaches to the study of politics.

R Pos 419Z Seminar in Political Theory (3)

Special topics in political theory and philosophy. Prerequisite(s): two courses in political theory or permission of instructor. [WI]

Courses in Public Law

R Pos 328 (= R Pub 328) Law and Policy (3)

Examination of the role of the of the courts in the public policy process and in substantive policy fields; integrates the literature of law and policy and applies it to such areas as mental health care, corrections, human resources, education, and housing policy.

R Pos 330 Law, Courts and Politics (3)

The structure and function of the courts in the American political system with special attention to staffing, the decision-making process, judicial policy making, and checks upon judicial power.

R Pos 333 (= A Wss 333) Women and the Law (3)

Examination of the various specific ways in which the law affects women by discriminating on the basis of sex and of the relationship between law and social norms regarding sex roles. Only one of R Pos 333 & A Wss 333 may be taken for credit.

R Pos 335 The American Supreme Court (3)

The role of the Supreme Court in American political life. Topics include: access to the court; the nature of Supreme Court decision making; the selection of Supreme Court justices; the relationship between the Supreme Court and the executive and legislative branches of government; and the major substantive issues with which the Supreme Court has been concerned.

R Pos 336 Civil Liberties (3)

The ways in which the courts have interpreted the Constitution with respect to individual freedoms. Examines a range of source materials to assess the role of the judiciary in arbitrating between the individual and the state, and its implications in American political life.

R Pos 346 (= A Wss 346) Law, Civil Rights, and Sexual Orientation (3)

The course will examine relevant court cases as well as local, state, and federal laws that define the boundaries for legal recognition of sexual orientation and personal sexuality in the 20th Century.

R Pos 363 (= R Crj 353) American Criminal Courts (3)

Examines the organization and operations of state and local criminal court systems from the perspective of social science research and public policy analysis. Major issues include: the role of courts in American society; bail and pre-trial procedures; the roles and decisions of prosecutors, judges and the defense bar; selection and operation of grand juries and trial juries; sentencing of criminal defendants; and others. The operations of juvenile and adult courts are compared, and efforts directed toward court reform are assessed. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing.

R Pos 426Z American Constitutional Law (3)

Examination of basic cases in their historical settings and analysis in terms of legal or constitutional issues and judicial doctrines, including judicial review, separation of powers, division of power, interstate relations, the power to tax and spend, war powers and treaty powers. [US* WI]

R Pos 427Z American Constitutional Law (3)

Examination of basic cases in their historical settings and analysis in terms of legal or constitutional issues and judicial doctrines, civil and political rights, the privileges and immunities of citizenship, due process and equal protection. [WI]

R Pos 428 Comparative Legal Systems (3)

Examination of basic cases in their historical settings and analysis in terms of legal or constitutional issues and judicial doctrines in the area of criminal justice, including search and seizure, self- incrimination, the right to counsel, and the right of a fair trial.

R Pos 437Z Law and Society (3)

Examination of central aspects of the legal process, focusing primarily on Anglo-American common law. Attention to the meaning of law and law's functions; legal education and practice; basic procedural matters, and exposure to the law of manufacturer's liability, contracts and labor management relations (injunctions and administrative law). [WI]

R Pos 449 Topics in Public Law (3)

Special topics course in Public Law. R Pos 449Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 449; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in Public Law or permission of instructor.

R Pos 449Z Topics in Public Law (3)

Special topics course in Public Law. R Pos 449Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 449; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in Public Law or permission of instructor. [WI]

 

Courses in Empirical Methodology

R Pos 416Z Research Methods in Political Science I (3)

Introduction to research design, statistics, and computer usage in political science and public affairs with an emphasis on the interpretation of results. Students examine experimental and quasi-experimental and nonexperimental research designs, summarize and present univariate distributions, perform bivariate and multivariate analyses including simple cross-tabulations and multiple regression analysis, and learn to use a computer to perform statistical and data management operations. Required for public affairs majors. [MS WI]

R Pos 417Z Research Methods in Political Science II (3)

Continuation of R Pos 416Z. It is expected that students will have taken R Pos 416Z during the first semester of the current academic year in which they enroll for this course. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 416Z. [WI]

 

Independent Study, Tutorials, Seminars, and Internships

R Pos 300 Honors Tutorial in Political Science (1)

A one-credit honors tutorial accompanying a 300-level political science course. Open only to students in the Political Science Honors Program. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

R Pos 338 Political Internship (3)

Active participation in the political process through working in a staff position of recognized political organizations or institutions. Interested students should contact the coordinator of undergraduate studies in Political Science. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. May be taken only once for credit. S/U graded.

R Pos 342 Washington Internship (8)

This is the internship component of the department's spring Washington Semester program. Admission by application. Preference given Pos Honors students; other majors and nonmajors admitted up to enrollment cap. Brochures, applications, informational meeting dates, available from department. Deadlines and interviews in the early fall. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z, one 300- level course in American government. Co- requisites: R Pos 341 and 495Z. Does not count toward a political science major or minor. S/U grading.

R Pos 399 (= R Pub 399) Selected Topics (3)

Investigation of selected topics in political science and/or public policy. Specific topics selected and announced by the instructor when offered. May be repeated once if the selected topic is substantively changed. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z and 102, and permission of instructor.

R Pos 400 Honors Tutorial in Political Science (1)

A one-credit honors tutorial accompanying a 400-level political science course. Open only to students in the Political Science Honors Program. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

R Pos 496Z Great Ideas in Political Science (4)

This course is designed to provide students beginning the Honors Program with a high level seminar on the major theories, approaches and issues in the field of Political Science. It will concentrate on the most prominent and challenging ideas in Political Theory, Global Politics, American Politics, Public Law, and Public Policy. There will be extensive reading and the writing assignments will meet University requirements for a writing intensive course. [WI]

R Pos 498 Independent Study (1-6)

Reading, research and intensive writing course work in a one-on-one relationship with a faculty member. To be overseen by the Chair of the Department. R Pos 498Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 498. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z Pos 102, or junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor and department chair. S/U or A-E graded.

R Pos 498Z Independent Study (1-6)

Reading, research and intensive writing course work in a one-on-one relationship with a faculty member. To be overseen by the Chair of the Department. R Pos 498Z is the writing intensive version of R Pos 498. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z and R Pos 102, or junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor and department chair. S/U or A-E graded. [WI]

R Pos 499Z Honors Thesis (4)

Reading, research and intensive writing course work for an Honors Thesis, under the direction of an individual faculty member, as part of the Honors Student Program. Prerequisite(s): R Pos 101 or 101Z, R Pos 102or 102Z, R Pos 103 or 103Z, Honors Student Status and permission of instructor or Department Chair. [WI]

 

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