Political Science and Geography
Department website: http://www.odu.edu/pols-geog
Jonathan Leib, Chair
The Department of Political Science and Geography offers undergraduate degrees in political science, geography and international studies.
In political science, the Department offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. The political science program is designed to give students an essential core of basic knowledge and analytical skills, while providing an opportunity to specialize in one of two emphasis areas: American politics and public law, or international relations and comparative politics. Optionally, students may major in one of the following areas: 1) International Affairs and Global Politics or 2) Analytics, Institutions, and Public Policy.
In geography, the Department offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. The geography program is designed to give students a broad base of geographical training and an understanding of human-environment interrelationships, while providing an opportunity to specialize in one of three majors: urban planning and emergency/hazards management, environment and resources, and geographic information systems (BS only). Undergraduate and graduate certificates in cyber risk management, geographic information science, hazards and emergency management, spatial analysis of coastal environments, and urban studies and planning are also offered.
The Department offers a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in International Studies, which is an interdisciplinary program that offers students a chance to explore the interrelations among nations and peoples and to study world affairs from a variety of perspectives. The International Studies major centers on studies in world languages and cultures, geography, history, and political science. Students have considerable flexibility to structure their academic programs to meet their particular needs and interests or to focus in a variety of geographical or topical fields.
In addition to developing subject-area expertise, political science and geography courses are designed to build analytic and communication skills. Writing and critical thinking skills are emphasized throughout the curriculum. Undergraduates in most 400-level courses in political science and geography are required to make oral presentations in class. Instructors also strengthen students' verbal competency skills through in-class discussions. Students gain technical skills in lower and upper-level methods classes where computers are employed for data analysis and social science research.
Undergraduate students may earn honors in the major in political science, geography or international studies by fulfilling all the requirements for the specific degree (BA and BS) and meeting the honors requirements. The requirements for honors do not increase the credit hours necessary for the major.
Advanced Placement
Students interested in advanced placement credit should confer with the department chair. Information on credit awarded for qualifying scores on AP and IB subject examinations can be found on the equivalency charts on the Office of Undergraduate Admissions website at https://www.odu.edu/academics/academic-records/score-analysis/ap-ib.
Programs
Bachelor of Arts Programs
Bachelor of Science Programs
- Geography (BS)
- Geography with a Major in Environment and Resources (BS)
- Geography with a Major in Geographic Information Systems (BS)
- Geography with a Major in Urban Planning & Emergency/Hazards Management (BS)
- Political Science (BS)
- Political Science with a Major in Analytics, Institutions, and Public Policy (BS)
- Political Science with a Major in International Affairs and Global Politics (BS)
Certificate Programs
Minor Programs
Linked BA/BS in Geography and MA in Humanities
The linked BA/BS program in geography and the MA in humanities makes it possible for exceptional students to count up to 12 hours of graduate courses toward both an undergraduate and graduate degree. Students must earn a minimum of 150 credit hours (120 discrete credit hours for the undergraduate degree and 30 discrete credit hours for the graduate degree). Please refer to the Humanities section of this Catalog for additional information on the linked program.
Linked BA/MA Program in International Studies
Qualified students can apply for admission to the linked BA/MA graduate degree program in international studies. The program allows exceptional students to count up to 12 credit hours of international studies courses toward both an undergraduate and graduate degree. Students must earn a minimum of 150 credit hours (120 discrete credits for the undergraduate degree and 30 discrete credits for the graduate degree).
Requirements for Admission
Requirements for admission are:
- A declared major in the BA program in international studies (BAIS).
- A minimum of 60 hours completed, including at least six hours of 300/400 courses in the major.
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 at the time of application.
- Application to the linked BA/MA program in international studies, approved by both the BA and MA directors.
- Take the GRE during the last semester of BAIS work with an expected minimum score of 1100 (verbal and quantitative totals).
- Complete an application form for Old Dominion University graduate admission. Students specializing in a region (e.g. Asia, Latin America, etc.) are encouraged to complete a minor at the undergraduate level.
Program Requirements
Students pursuing the linked BA/MA program will fulfill all lower-level General Education requirements that have been approved for the BAIS and meet the requirements to earn a BA in international studies.
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Method Courses | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Research Design | ||
| Research Design | ||
| Introduction to Historical Methods | ||
| Foreign Language * | ||
| Complete foreign language requirements | 18-21 | |
| Core Courses in Geography, History, Political Science, and Cultural Studies | ||
| Five of the following six courses are required: | 15 | |
| World Resources | ||
| Political Geography | ||
| Empire, Nations, and Industrialization: Evolution of the State System, 1815-1914 | ||
or HIST 416 | States, Territories and International Organization: Evolution of the State System Since 1914 | |
or HIST 414 | Freedom, Rights and Revolution: Evolution of the State System 1648-1815 | |
| International Political Economy | ||
| International Relations Theory | ||
| Cultural Studies: ** | ||
| BAIS Senior Seminar | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Senior Seminar in International Studies | ||
| Senior Seminar in International Studies | ||
| Senior Seminar in International Studies | ||
| Senior Seminar in International Studies | ||
Other approved course | ||
| Bridge Courses (to be taken during Senior Year) *** | ||
| IS 600 | Research Methods in International Studies | 3 |
| IS 601 | Seminar in International Relations Theory | 3 |
| IS 606 | American Foreign Policy and World Order | 3 |
| ECON 650 | International Economics | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 54-57 | |
- *
A minimum of six credits beyond the requirement for the Bachelor of Arts (preferably in the language pursued for the BA) or demonstrated proficiency to that level as approved by the chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures. Current language offerings include: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Russian, and Spanish.
Native speakers of a language other than English may ask for a waiver. To be considered a native speaker, a student must be admitted to Old Dominion University with a passing TOEFL score.
- **
Students select one course that links culture to other aspects of international studies in an integrative, interdisciplinary way. Examples are World Cultural Studies (WCS) literature and film courses, English World Literature courses, and other culturally focused, international, interdisciplinary courses, and those from disciplines other than GEOG, HIST, and POLS as available and approved by the BAIS director.
- ***
An overall GPA of at least 3.00 is required in these courses.
The BA in international studies will be awarded on completion of 120 credit hours including all the preceding courses and other University requirements for graduation.
Master of Arts Requirements
After obtaining the BA in international studies, students must complete the following:
- Four graduate courses in one of the following fields of concentration (instead of the three required for MA students): international relations/U.S. foreign policy; conflict and cooperation; international political economy and development; and interdependence and transnationalism.
- Two electives at the 600 level or above. At least one should have a regional focus (e.g. Europe, Asia, Middle East, Latin America).
The MA in international studies requires 18 credits beyond the four Bridge Courses (the MAIS core courses). It is anticipated that a student who has completed the BAIS could thus take three courses in the fall and spring semesters. There will be no thesis option.
Additional Requirements
Students in the linked BA/MA program must also complete the following:
- Fulfill the BAIS language requirement (which also fulfills MAIS requirements).
- Take the GRE during the last semester of BAIS work with a minimum expected score of 1100 (verbal and quantitative totals).
- Have an overall GPA of 3.00 in the seven core undergraduate courses and at least a GPA of 3.00 in the four Bridge courses (MAIS core courses).
- Maintain an overall GPA of 3.00. (Students failing to maintain a 3.00 GPA may revert to the regular BAIS degree and count up to 12 hours of completed graduate core courses toward the BAIS.)
- Complete an application form for Old Dominion University graduate admission. Students specializing in a region (e.g. Asia, Latin America, etc.) are encouraged to complete a minor at the undergraduate level.
Additional Explanations
- Students interested in the BA/MA program will be advised as early as possible, and admitted students will start the program during their Junior year in order to meet all the requirements. Thus, students may apply for admission to the linked program after they have earned 60 credits (including at least six hours of 300/400 courses in the major). Applications can be filed with the undergraduate director on or before April 1 for admission in the following Fall semester and on or before November 1 for admission in the following Spring semester. Notifications of acceptance to students will be forwarded by May 1 and December 1, respectively.
- Students fulfill the BAIS language requirement (which also fulfills MAIS requirements).
- Students will receive the BA degree after fulfilling all the requirements for the undergraduate degree. Students whose overall GPA drops below a 3.00 before attaining the BA degree can revert to the regular BAIS program and count any graduate credits they may have earned toward the BAIS. Students with a GPA of less than 3.00 at the end of their fourth year will not be permitted to continue toward the MA degree.
- Students in the linked program must meet the BAIS requirement that students must receive a minimum grade of C (2.00) in the following undergraduate courses:
Course List Code Title Credit Hours ENGL 110C English Composition 3 ENGL 211C Writing, Rhetoric, and Research 3 GEOG 100S Human Geography 3 POLS 100S Introduction to International Politics 3 or POLS 102S Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics ECON 201S Principles of Macroeconomics 3 Select one of the following: 3 Interpreting the World Past Since 1500 Interpreting the Asian Past Interpreting the European Past Interpreting the Latin America Past Interpreting the African Past Not accepted for the major: Interpreting the American Past - Please refer to the Graduate Catalog for additional information on the MA in international studies as well as the doctoral program in international studies.
BA or BS to MBA (Master of Business Administration) Linked Program
The linked BA/MBA or BS/MBA program is an early entry to the MBA program of study. The early-entry program is designed for well qualified non-business undergraduate ODU students to start their MBA program prior to completing their undergraduate degree. Well qualified non-business undergraduate students may take MBA-level courses as early as three semesters prior to graduation and count up to 12 graduate credits toward their undergraduate degree. Students participating in the early-entry program must earn a minimum of 150 credit hours (120 discrete credit hours for the undergraduate degree and 30 discrete credit hours for the graduate degree). Early-entry program students should carefully consider their undergraduate degree program requirements when planning their course of study. Students in the early-entry program work in close consultation with the MBA Program Office and should refer to information in the Strome College of Business section in the graduate catalog to develop an individualized plan of study based on the required coursework.
BA or BS to MPA (Master of Public Administration) Linked Program
The linked BA/MPA or BS/MPA program provides qualified Old Dominion University undergraduate students with the opportunity to earn a master's degree in public administration while taking credits in the MPA program as an undergraduate student. The program is designed for highly motivated students with the desire to immediately continue their education after the bachelor's degree. The program is especially relevant to individuals seeking to work (or currently working) in the public or non-profit sectors, but is suitable for students from any undergraduate major. Graduate courses may be taken during the fall and spring semester of the student's senior undergraduate year. Up to 12 graduate credits can count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree and can meet upper-level General Education requirements. After receiving the undergraduate degree, a student will continue with the MPA program, taking MPA courses until completing the required 39 credit hours. Students in the linked program must earn a minimum of 150 credit hours (120 discrete credit hours for the undergraduate degree and 30 discrete credit hours for the graduate degree).
Requirements for admission to the graduate program can be found in the School of Public Service section of the Graduate Catalog. For additional information, please contact the School of Public Service in the Strome College of Business.
Courses
Geography (GEOG)
This course provides a basic topical introduction to human and cultural geography. It focuses on the diversity of human societies, their distribution, characteristics, and cultural impact on the landscape. Topics include the geography of population, migration, language, religion, economic development, urbanization, resources, and the political landscape.
A geographical study of the diverse characteristics of the Earth's physical landscape, spatial distribution of environmental characteristics, the impacts of these on human populations and human populations' impact on the natural environment. Topics include climate and climate change, mass movements and natural hazards, biogeography and environmental problems such as desertification and deforestation, and the use and abuse of water resources.
This course provides an overview and exploration of: 1) the digital representation of the Earth and 2) geospatial science and technology. The course investigates geospatial technological innovations affecting the environment, resources, and society, including satellite global positioning systems, geographic information systems, and earth observations. Students develop hands-on skills as well as critical-thinking skills concerning the role of increasingly ubiquitous geospatial technology and their influences on social, economic, and human-environment interactions.
Open only to students in the Honors College. A special honors section of GEOG 100S.
A study of the physical and cultural characteristics of the major geographical regions of the world. The course focuses upon significant problems within each of the world's major regions and examines the relevance of the geographical background to these problems.
A study of selective topics in Geography.
A study of selective topics in Geography.
An investigation of different representations of the Earth: physical and cognitive maps, atlases, spatial databases, aerial photographs, and remote sensing imagery, with an emphasis on the use of geographic tools for communicating and analyzing information.
A geographical analysis of the distribution and accessibility of the world's resources including population, agricultural land, biodiversity, water, renewable and nonrenewable materials, and energy sources.
An exploration of human perceptions of and responses to extreme geophysical and technological threats, including nuclear bombs and accidents, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and volcanoes.
Covers the design and implementation of quantitative and qualitative methods of inquiry in social sciences.
An analysis of the structure, growth, and development of cities. Topics include the use of urban land, location of public services, structure of the urban economy, social problems of urban populations, and decay and revitalization.
A study of the relationship between geographical and political factors; the nation state and its subdivisions; interaction among states; and the political geography of everyday life.
An analysis of differences in spatial patterns on the economic landscape at national and international levels, and the processes which create such differences. Introduces basic concepts, theories, and models in economic geography at the global scale.
A study of ethnic minorities worldwide with emphasis on geographical dimensions of ethnic identity and relationships between ethnicity and territory, regionalism, politics, and cultural expression.
A review of selected techniques for generating data in a field situation. Lectures deal with the description and evaluation of techniques such as sampling methods, observation, interviewing, questionnaires, human relations skills and ethical considerations. The project component involves the definition of field problems and the application of appropriate techniques.
The human and physical geography of the United States and Canada with special emphasis on the distribution of population and natural resources, migration patterns, location of major economic activities, and the variety of regional identities within the U.S. and Canada.
A study of selected regions or selected problems within a particular region of the world.
Student participation for credit based on the academic relevance of the work experience, criteria and evaluative procedures as formally determined by the department and Career Development Services prior to the semester in which the work experience is to take place.
Individualized practical experience in the area of applied geography. The credits will be commensurate with the level of the student's involvement.
Disasters in the U.S and abroad are examined to study the evolution of emergency practices. Factors contributing to the hazardousness of place and community vulnerability are explored. Emergency phases are practiced through interactive simulations.
A study of selected topics designed for nonmajors, or for elective credit within a major. These courses will appear in the course schedule and will be more fully described in information distributed to all academic advisors.
A study of selected topics designed for nonmajors, or for elective credit within a major. These courses will appear in the course schedule and will be more fully described in information distributed to all academic advisors.
Independent study under the direction of an instructor.
Advanced study of a specialized topic in geography. The choice of the topic may vary according to the availability of faculty expertise and student interest. This is a writing intensive course. This course may be repeated once provided it is a different topic and with permission of the instructor.
This course analyzes the causes, severity, potential consequences, and proposed solutions regarding global ecological issues with special attention to the scientific debate and the political and policy process. It examines environmental policies of national governments, regional/international organizations, and global conferences.
A study of the conceptual basis of GIS as a tool for manipulating spatial information. The course focuses on how geographic information can be input and organized within the framework of a GIS. Students will work on a computer-based GIS to gain a greater understanding of spatial database structures and analytical operations.
Study of the theory and application of remote sensing, emphasizing environmental applications and aerial and satellite imagery. Covers the fundamentals of multispectral digital image processing, including sensors pre-processing, enhancement, classification, accuracy assessment, and GIS data integration.
Discussion of the ecological and management principles underlying international resource management and the goal of attaining a sustainable, ecologically balanced world.
Computer-assisted methods and techniques employed in the design, construction, and use of maps and other graphics as tools for data analysis and communication.
Survey of the state-of-the-art geospatial applications of small Uncrewed Autonomous Systems (sUAS) mapping, surveying, and modeling. Course combines seminars spanning application sectors of research and professional practice; lectures on mission planning, operations, analysis and regulations; and hands-on practical exercises incorporating risk management, safety, ethics, and legal issues.
Discussion of specific urban and metropolitan problems based on outside readings and individually selected research topics.
A study of planning concepts and principles used to guide contemporary metropolitan growth and development. Emphasis is on the application of planning tools and methods that guide the planning process from conception to execution.
An examination of cities of the world's major cultural realms with an emphasis on the urban landscape as it varies between developed and developing countries.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and science are an essential tool for urban planners and policy makers who have special interests in places and who need this kind of knowledge for decision making. The purpose of this course is to teach students the foundations of GIS and how it is applied in urban planning and other related disciplines. The course combines lectures, discussion of readings, and hands-on exercises in the computer lab.
A survey of and practicum in the basic techniques of quantitative research, including the logic of empirical research, the identification of data sources, and the use of appropriate statistical techniques.
The course integrates remotely sensed and field techniques for scientific investigation and practical management of coastal environmental systems. Spatial modeling of coastal processes and management tools using Geographic Information System (GIS).
An analysis of the environmental geography and resources of the ocean, with particular emphasis on geospatial analysis of the seafloor, hydrography, climate change, fisheries, ocean pollution, maritime activity spaces and management.
An examination of the physical and human geography of the coastal zone. Considers problems of managing coastal resources with an emphasis on North America. Lectures focus on coastal patterns, processes, and problems at the global, national, and local scales. Students investigate a section of the local coastline and write a report on the physical and human geography on the basis of field study, library, and internet research. This is a writing intensive course.
Weather and climate play a pivotal role in nearly every aspect of life. How does temperature relate to health outcomes? What impact does El Niño have on Peruvian farmers? How is the issue of climate change reflected in national security policy? Why? Topics also include the energy balance equation, remote sensing techniques, and climatological data acquisition and analysis. Beyond an understanding of the complex processes that dictate the flow of the atmosphere, the course analyzes the socioeconomic, political, and cultural perspectives of climate and weather. The course also provides a framework for stewardship and responsibility to the future.
Theoretical and practical exploration of methods, standards, and policies related to the development and utilization of geographic information systems on the Internet. Students will create and utilize distributed geospatial data and analytical systems using the WWW and the Internet to address geographical problems.
The study of a series of advanced topics in the field of geographic information systems/science. Focus is placed on the development of projects/models and a survey of several advanced techniques. Students will work on a computer based GIS to implement topics from lectures.
This course examines gender identity and sexuality in all of their diverse forms through a lens of human geography, such as metaphors of space and place, the cultural landscape, and 'mapping territory.' Topics explored include global gender identities; 'queer space;' 'locating' gender and sexuality within the arts and tourism; the gendered citizen and the nation; and political economies of gender and sexuality.
A geographical analysis of the interrelationships among physical, cultural, economic, and political factors in Europe.
A geographical analysis of the interrelationships among physical, cultural, economic, and political factors in Africa.
A geographical analysis of the interrelationships among physical, cultural, economic, and political factors in Asia excluding the Middle East and the former USSR.
A geographical analysis of the interrelationships among physical, cultural, economic, and political factors in Latin America. This is a writing intensive course.
A geographical analysis of the interrelationships among physical, cultural, economic, and political factors in the Middle East.
An analysis of Virginia's population, resources, and regional landscapes as they have been influenced by physical, cultural, historical, and economic factors.
The course covers a range of topics in medical and health geography, including spatial behaviors of infectious disease and health care access. The focus of the course is on the geographical patterns of health and disease from the population rather than individual scale. In addition to seminar style lectures and discussions, the course enables students to further investigate by learning how to conduct medical/health geography research.
This course introduces the essential theoretical concepts and analytical tools for analyzing spatial process, spatial autocorrelation, spatial patterns, techniques for spatial interpolation, network connectivity, big data, and landscape patterns. The course culminates with students carrying out their own spatial analysis projects. This course assumes that students understand the basic concepts in GIS with some experience in software operation of ArcGIS.
This course develops students’ GIS programming skills. Focus is placed on Python programming in ArcGIS and JavaScript in Web GIS development.
The objective of the course is to provide students with a deeper understanding of the current concepts and debates in environmental geography. By exploring the ethical and philosophical foundations of the field, the course considers the environment’s opportunities and constraints. While topics may include climate change, agricultural security, and renewable energy, the course will be driven by student-led discussions and participation. Critically thinking about complex phenomenon, the seminar will include various weekly readings, discussions, and writing assignments.
Students will demonstrate advanced skills and techniques using spatial data to prevent, mitigate, respond to, and recover from intentional, natural, and accidental homeland security threats and emergencies. This course demonstrates the importance of rapidly disseminating spatial information towards the prevention and response of various organizations to homeland security events. This course will provide students with the tools and experience required to collect, prepare and manage spatial data and enable students to be prepared to map and analyze the data to quickly and effectively create a coordinated response to real homeland security events.
This course examines the multifaceted interface of built and natural environments and their impacts on land use management at spatial and temporal scales. It evaluates the impact of population pressure on sustainability through a survey of urban areas and analyzes urban planning and management capacities to maintain resilience despite environmental and technological hazards.
Interdisciplinary research and the preparation of a senior thesis in international studies. This is a writing intensive course.
This course is designed to allow students to synthesize Geography concepts, theories, and knowledge and apply them to: 1) understand their positionality within the paradigms of the discipline, 2) explore future career paths, discover job possibilities, and graduate school opportunities in Geography, and 3) prepare materials (such as resumes and e-portfolios) to be used to apply for such positions.
Practical experience in applying the principles of cartography and geographical information systems to the design and construction of maps and other graphics.
The advanced study of selected topics which, due to their specialized nature, may not be offered regularly. These courses will appear in the course schedule, and will be more fully described in information distributed to all academic advisors.
The advanced study of selected topics which, due to their specialized nature, may not be offered regularly. These courses will appear in the course schedule, and will be more fully described in information distributed to all academic advisors.
Independent reading and study on a topic to be selected under the direction of the instructor. Conferences and papers as appropriate.
Independent study under the direction of an instructor.
Completion of a research paper supervised by a faculty member from the Geography program. Research topic to be selected in concert with the faculty supervisor and a final written report required.
Political Science (POLS)
This course provides a basic introduction to the study of international politics. It considers some of the more prominent theoretical perspectives in the discipline and examines the major political, economic, social and environmental issues presently facing the global community. The course prepares students for advanced study in international politics.
This course introduces students to the political processes and the institutions of American politics. The course examines American political culture, gender and minority rights, citizen participation, national institutions, public policy, and foreign and defense policy.
This course introduces basic concepts and methods for the study of comparative politics. It also surveys and compares the political/socioeconomic development, political cultures/ideologies, political institutions, decision-making processes, and public policies of various countries in the world.
Open only to students in the Honors College. A special honors section of POLS 101S.
Open only to students in the Honors College. Special honors section of POLS 100S.
An introduction to various approaches to policy making followed by a detailed study of several of the most important domestic contemporary issues (housing, transportation, education, welfare, etc.).
Introduces the student to the United States legal system through an examination of its institutions, practitioners, and processes. Assignments explore (1) the anatomy of a law suit, (2) legal education in the United States, (3) basic methods of legal reasoning, writing, and argumentation, and (4) the function of judicial precedent within United States courts. This is a writing intensive course.
In-depth analysis of the American court system with an emphasis on the political behavior of the system's participants and the procedural dimensions of the court system.
Development of criminal procedure under the United States Constitution, with particular emphasis on the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Eighth, and Fourteenth Amendments as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Covers the design and implementation of quantitative and qualitative methods of inquiry in social sciences.
This course examines the public policy problems of various racial groups in America. It analyzes the extent to which the American political system protects and promotes the concerns of African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans and Asians.
The study of political theory delves into the central concepts that shape humanity’s capacity to think about and practice politics, including justice, liberty, equality, human nature, rights, power, democracy, and the various potential goals of political community. Students will study influential political thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine of Hippo, Thomas Aquinas, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Mill, Marx and Rawls.
This course is a survey of Virginia state and local government institutions, functions, processes, and behavior of political actors.
The course considers the origins, evolution, purposes, and relevancy of American political thought. It includes studies in democracy versus elitism; civil disobedience versus revolution; liberalism versus conservatism.
An examination of the United Nations and key issues facing the international community. Includes a three-day visit to United Nations headquarters in New York.
Analyzes and compares the major political functions and the social, economic, and cultural bases of European states. Also examines the contemporary movement for European economic, military, and political unity.
This course is intended to familiarize students with the struggles, advances, and setbacks of African peoples for state-building and socioeconomic development during the colonial and post-independence eras.
A survey of the lobby movement in America, its history and present status, with particular attention to current lobbies and interest groups and their impact on the national government.
Since it was established in 1945 the UN has inspired humanity, undertaken many of the world’s most difficult jobs, and provided great achievements and disappointments. This course examines the functioning of the UN, what it does best and worst, and the prospects for UN reform.
What are the roles and capabilities of the international organizations? This course examines the principles behind the world’s 300 IOs, including specialized, technical, and regional organizations, as well as alliances and non-governmental organizations. When do they replace states and other actors? When are they essential, when are they helpful adjuncts, and when are they irrelevant? This is a writing intensive course.
Introduces students to the primary mechanisms of the global political economy in allocating goods, income, wealth and the means to produce them, with emphasis on the international division of labor.
Comparative study of the various theories that attempt to explain the patterns of interactions among the different members of the global community. Draws on historical and modern cases to explain traditional and alternative theories.
This course is designed for intermediate students who are interested in the theoretical and systematic study of world politics. The course first introduces students to several major theoretical approaches to the study of world politics, and then applies these approaches to a number of major issues--ranging from conflict and cooperation, arms control, the protection of human rights, international trade, economic development, and environmental preservation. This is a writing intensive course.
This course presents those factors that go into the making and analyzing of American foreign policy, explores their application in decision making, and seeks to test their utilization against contemporary problems. This is a writing intensive course.
Examination of issues facing America as it debates the use of international force, including the range of national security choices, defense reform, and the tensions between American resort to warfare and global trends transforming the ability to use violence effectively. This is a writing intensive course.
Starting with the Soviet communist system, explores Russia's efforts to establish democracy and the rule of law, to fashion a productive, beneficial market economy, to establish viable relationships with the other former republics of the USSR and to craft advantageous foreign and military policies toward the West, Asia, and the developing countries.
This course is a survey of state and local government institutions, functions, processes, and behavior of political actors.
Analyzes European politics from World War II to the present. Emphasizes the foreign policies of major European states, including policies towards EU and NATO. This is a writing intensive course.
An examination of the development of the news media and the role of political communication and information in American politics. Analysis of the newsmaking process; media coverage of political campaigns, the President and Congress; the impact of the news media on the American public; and the interaction between public officials and journalists.
A survey of electoral politics and behavior, including the structure of the electoral system, contemporary political campaigning, political partisanship, voting behavior, and role of interest groups in the electoral process.
This course examines the evolution of environmentalism in the United States, including the policy-making process, science and the role played by the public and political institutions.
This is a comparative study of the main political, economic and social developments in the major countries of South Asia. Themes will include democratization, problems of economic development, the role of caste and religion, the causes of intrastate conflict and interstate conflict and the influence of global forces on the region.
Examines the evolution of Latin American politics, including early colonial and caudillo rule, populism and radicalism, the emergence of military regimes, and the reestablishment of constitutional democracies. Also considers contemporary economic, social, cultural, and environmental issues which condition state-society relations in the region.
This course examines political cultures/traditions, governmental institutions, decision-making processes, public policies, political organizations, and significant socio-political issues of such East Asian countries as China, Japan and Korea. In addition, it explores the collective impact of these countries on world politics and global economy. This is a writing intensive course.
This course examines the fundamental changes and continuities that the evolution of technology has brought to armed conflict. It explores the historical development of technology and warfare, emphasizing the role of cultural, social and political choice shaping the development of new military technologies and affecting how they are used. What is the future of Western assumptions about technologically dominated warfare?
Student participation for credit based on the academic relevance of the work experience, criteria, and evaluative procedures as formally determined by the department and Career Development Services prior to the semester in which the work experience is to take place.
Individualized practical experience in public bureaucracies, political groups, administrative agencies or law firms. Group seminars are held periodically under the supervision of faculty. Credits are commensurate with the level of the student's involvement.
A study of selected topics designed for nonmajors, or for elective credit within a major. These courses and any additional prerequisites will appear in the course schedule, and will be more fully described in information distributed to all academic advisors.
A study of selected topics designed for nonmajors, or for elective credit within a major. These courses and any additional prerequisites will appear in the course schedule, and will be more fully described in information distributed to all academic advisors.
This is a detailed study of the institutional and behavioral factors at work in legislative decision making, especially at the national level. Emphases are on the interrelationships among Congress, the Presidency, and the bureaucracy and on learning how to do research on specific legislation.
This course analyzes the causes, severity, potential consequences, and proposed solutions regarding global ecological issues with special attention to the scientific debate and the political and policy process. It examines environmental policies of national governments, regional/international organizations, and global conferences.
The course explores the development of conflicting judicial and legal theories arising from Supreme Court enforcement of the First Amendment’s protection of speech and religious freedoms. Supreme Court opinions, along with the underlying theories that inform its decisions and rationales, are the focus of the assignments and class discussion.
The course covers the development of presidential power and activity, the contemporary operations of the Presidency, and the problems which may confront the institution in the future.
An examination of the vexatious line between the rights of individuals and those of the state in the American democracy, focusing on such major issues as freedom of expression and worship; freedom of the press; separation of church and state; privacy; and racial and gender discrimination.
An examination of separation of powers, federalism and the democratic process as reflected by Supreme Court decisions. Also, the Supreme Court as a political institution.
This course examines the political development of Black people in the United States by focusing on the relationship and processes of the American political system. The political dynamics of Black political thought, the Civil Rights Movement, and Black protest politics are also analyzed.
Examines the political activities which resulted in the passage of the nation's second Civil Rights policy, the 1960 and 1964 Civil Rights Acts, the 1965 Voting Rights Act and the 1968 Fair Housing Act. The course will analyze the underpinnings, leadership, and political strategies of the Civil Rights Movement.
The question of power, often ignored by education policy analysts and researchers, is a principal focus of this seminar. Issues ranging from the role of education in political socialization and the politics of affirmative action and equal opportunity are examined.
Examines women's place in political theory and the practice of politics in the United States. A major focus is to trace the development of women's political rights, the impact of public policy on the lives of American women and to see how women influence and participate in the political process.
A survey of and practicum in the basic techniques of quantitative research, including the logic of empirical research, the identification of data sources, and the use of appropriate statistical techniques.
An examination of the history of legal thought and developments of natural law, as well as an in-depth analysis of legal positivism and realism. Particular attention is paid to American legal philosophy.
This seminar focuses on the politics of the American South from the 1940s to the present. Emphasis is on introducing students to contrasting explanations and analysis about the politics of the American South. This is a writing intensive course.
Surveys major areas of public international law (e.g., laws of warfare, law of the sea, conflict resolution, etc.). Emphasizes the relationship between international law and international politics.
Course provides a basis for understanding the role and importance of international organizations in contemporary international relations. Focuses on development and history of global organizations, with particular emphasis on the United Nations, and regional and functional organizations.
This writing intensive course explores cybersecurity policy and strategy and introduces students to the essentials of strategy development and policy making in cybersecurity. Topics considered include planning principles in cyber strategy; risk management and cybersecurity policy; the connections between cybersecurity policies, businesses, and governmental institutions; the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to develop and implement cybersecurity policy; the social, political and ethical implications that arise in cybersecurity policies and strategies; strategies to assess cybersecurity policy; and the ties between national security and cybersecurity policy.
This course explores the national security dimensions of cybersecurity and examines cyber war in international relations. Exploration of cyber war begins with an examination of cybersecurity as a component of national security and investigates the topics of U.S National Cybersecurity and other national approaches to cyber war. The topics of cyber deterrence, cyber as a military domain, the roles of international organizations in cyber war, cyber terrorism, the role of social media, and information warfare will be discussed. The international dimension of cybersecurity is also discussed.
An examination of current theories and research on political behavior, conventional and unconventional modes of political participation, and the impact of participation on the political system.
A study of origins of the Chinese revolution; development and functions of the Chinese Communist Party; government institutions; the defense establishment; evolution of foreign policy; and post-Mao political and economic reforms.
A study of Japan's historical political development and social patterns; government institutions; problems of the constitution; and foreign and defense policy.
A study of contemporary issues (political, economic, and strategic) in the East Asia area; the interactions of China, Japan, the United States, and the former Soviet republics in East Asia.
Students will study law as seen through the lens of fiction. Assignments draw heavily from classic and contemporary novels, short stories, plays, films, and perhaps television. As these artistic representations of law in action are explored, short theoretical readings help focus on questions of philosophy, politics, and justice. The course also explores the relationship between fiction and reality through appellate opinions and contemporary literature on the American legal system. The goal is to come to a better understanding of the potential blessings, dangers, and limitations of law.
This course aims to expose students to an examination of the workings of international politics from the viewpoint of Africans and African states. International relations have tended to look at the world from the viewpoint of its most powerful states. Yet, most the world's states - notably in Africa - are weak but have great potential global impact.
A study of the Fascist, Nazi, Stalin and Mao regimes and the forces that brought them to power and sustained them, including a study of the impact of their policies on their people and neighboring states.
Explores the essential characteristics of globalization and its implications for social relations and existing institutions.
An examination of the science of climate change and how United States political actors have responded to this global environmental challenge.
Since the end of the Cold War, weapons of mass destruction have emerged as one of the most dangerous and contentious issues in international affairs. The course examines how these weapons are made, how they proliferate, and how they are controlled.
This course focuses on one specific European country such as France, Germany, the United Kingdom, etc. Examination of trends and events which most influenced the evolution of domestic politics and foreign relations from World War II to the present.
Ethnically based conflict is presently a pervasive worldwide phenomenon. This course examines internal and external factors causing ethnic conflicts and mechanisms for resolving or mitigating such conflicts.
An analysis of the political processes throughout the region and in selected nations of the Middle East. Topics to be discussed include inter-Arab relations, the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Iran-Iraq rivalry and foreign power involvement in the Middle East.
This course focuses on race, ethnicity, and the role and influence of African Americans in international affairs and American foreign policy making. It investigates the activities of African Americans in the international arena. The emphasis is on how African Americans have participated and the results of that participation from the era of slavery to Barack Obama.
Interdisciplinary research and preparation of a senior thesis in international studies This is a writing intensive course.
The advanced study of selected topics in American politics designed to permit small groups of qualified students to work on subjects of mutual interest which, due to their specialized nature, may not be offered regularly.
An examination and discussion of critical world issues based upon the Foreign Policy Association's Great Decision Series.
The advanced study of selected topics in political science which, due to their specialized nature, may not be offered regularly.
The advanced study of selected topics which, due to their specialized nature, may not be offered regularly.
Independent research in political science under the supervision of a faculty member.
Independent research in political science under the supervision of a faculty member.