Political Science (POLS) 2023-2024 Edition

Courses

POLS 556. The Presidency in Modern American Politics. 3 Credit Hours.

The presidency today is widely perceived as the centerpiece of the American political system. But this notion is very different than that originally outlined in the U.S. Constitution. What has brought about this change? What strengths and weaknesses characterize the modern presidency? How has this transformation impacted the separation of powers? What does the popular image of the president as "chief decider" signify for democratic government? These questions and more guide this exploration of the presidency in modern American politics. This is a 500 level graduate content course. Permission of the instructor is required.
Session Cycle: Spring
Yearly Cycle: Alternate Years.

POLS 562. International Relations. 3 Credit Hours.

In this course students analyze the nature of the modern nation/state system, and the resultant struggle for power, including power politics, balance of power, and war and peace. This course covers the bases and limitations of national power as well as international law, international organization and diplomacy. This is a 500 level graduate content course. Permission of the instructor is required.
Session Cycle: Spring
Yearly Cycle: Alternate Years.

POLS 563. Ethics in International Affairs. 3 Credit Hours.

"All's fair in love and war" used to effectively summarize global politics, but, in recent years, moral considerations have become major, but still controversial, components of many policy discussions. This course will examine issues such as the ethical constraints on the use of force, human rights norms, issues created by global inequality and by development programs, and ethical implications of the global economy and multinational corporations. This course is a 500 graduate program. Permission of instructor is required.
Session Cycle: Spring
Yearly Cycle: Alternate Years.

POLS 597. Directed Graduate Study in Political Science. 3 Credit Hours.

This course is an opportunity to do independent, in depth study or research for graduate school credit. The student works on an individual basis under the direction of the political science faculty. The main requirement of the course is the development of a substantial paper or project. This is a 500 graduate level course. Permission of instructor is required.