Political Science (PLS)

In this course, students will be introduced to the forms and functions of American government with an emphasis on the national government. The decision-making process in Congress, the Presidency, and the federal court system are studied. The course also examines the relationship of political parties and public opinion to the electoral process. Level I Prerequisite: Academic Reading and Writing Levels of 6

In this course, students critically examine the role of the mass media in shaping American political life, focusing on the historical development of the mass media in American society, the economic and political forces that shape news coverage of political leaders and institutions, the influence of the mass media on the American public and normative assessments of how well the media promotes public deliberation in a democracy. Level I Prerequisite: Academic Reading and Writing Levels of 6; PLS 112 minimum grade "C-"

In this federalism course, students examine the relationship among the U.S. Constitution, state and federal lawmaking, and citizen initiatives. Topics will include the ownership and regulation of guns, the impact of religion relative to abortion and LGBT rights, and state and federal law regarding marijuana and the legalization of drugs. The 2nd and 14th Amendments, and Articles 3, 4, 5, and 6 of the U.S. Constitution will be explored. Level I Prerequisite: Academic Reading and Writing Levels of 6

This course is an introduction to campaigns and elections in the United States. The purpose is to provide students with an intellectual understanding and practical working knowledge of the electoral process. The course will examine key actors in the electoral system: candidates, parties, interest groups, voters and the mass media. Although the focus will be on national elections, both congressional and presidential, state and local elections will also be examined. This course will provide students with the knowledge that will equip them to become more informed and effective citizens in the electoral process. Level I Prerequisite: Academic Reading and Writing Levels of 6