PSC

Concentration Class 3 Credits 15

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Transfer Credits

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

10

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course is designed to serve as an introduction to the systematic processes of political science research, including methods for gathering and analyzing data on political science phenomena. It will provide instruction throughout on how to effectively communicate scholarly political science research. PSC 200 Prerequisite: Successful completion of PSC 100. Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis Distance education offering may be available. 509

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Second Language 202 3 Credits 15

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Considers public administration in the United States as a process of implementing public policy. Uses case studies and projects with texts focusing on organizational theory, human behavior and motivation, budgeting, personnel, and administrative responsibility.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Politics among nations, including politics carried on through international organizations. Examines power politics, techniques of diplomacy, and methods of current international organizations. Special attention to U.S. interests and policies. Gen Ed Attribute: Behavior/Soc Science Distrib, Global Awareness Pathway Distance education offering may be available.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Examination of key ideas that animated the major thinkers of Western thought. Special emphasis will be placed both on specific historical context and possibility of continuing relevance of considered ideas. Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis Distance education offering may be available.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

An introduction to the comparative study of political systems at various stages of cultural, social, economic, and political development. The course enables critical assessment of these developments through comparative examination of distinct political systems around the world. Important topics and questions to be examined: political contestation and participation, types of government, forms of electoral systems, models of democracy and processes of democratization, political economy, and many others. Distance education offering may be available.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

The courts are the least democratic of the major American political institutions. Yet, the role of the courts is also essential to maintaining not only the rule of law, but the basic rights necessary to maintain a functioning democratic republic. In this course, we will critically analyze the American legal system in terms of its democratic nature and its essential functions for society. Topics explored include, the role of law in society, the structure and functioning of judicial institutions, the selection and behavior of judges, the function and role of lawyers and interest groups in the legal process, and the role of judges in the policy making process. We will examine both state and federal courts and both trial and appellate courts, including the United State Supreme Court. Our focus in this course will be on legal actors and institutions rather than legal doctrine or specific court decisions.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of how state and local governments operate in the United States, with some emphasis on Pennsylvania. It examines the political and cultural development that has taken place across the nation in these laboratories of democracy. The functions of state and local governments are examined. Emphasis is placed upon constitutions, legislatures, chief executives, courts, political parties, attitudes, and the interrelationships between federal and state governments as well as issues and problems faced by metropolitan areas. Distance education offering may be available. 510

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course introduces students to the principles and practice of political science research design. Building on foundational coursework in PSC 200 and preparing students for independent research, the course emphasizes the development of clear research questions, appropriate methodological choices, and ethical research practices. Students examine a range of research designs used in political science and learn to evaluate their strengths and limitations. Students develop a research plan and proposal suitable for IRB review and use in PSC 401. PSC 300 Prerequisite: Successful completion of PSC 200.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the role of gender within political frameworks in the United States and abroad. It explores how gender can shape political engagement and representation, as well as analyzing the role and impact of women in politics, including women's policy interest and access to the political system. Students will examine the meaning of gender, intersectionality, sexism, and feminism in a political context. The course aims to provide students critical tools to analyze the complexity of political structures through a gendered lens. Gen Ed Attribute: Diverse Communities

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the politics of governing American urban areas. In doing so, a number of social science perspectives are explored. Particular attention is paid to theories of urban power and democracy and the politics of urban development. Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines U.S. relations with the nations of Latin America. Emphasis is on understanding the goals of U.S. policies and the real impact of those policies. U.S. views of Latin America, both contemporary and historical, are explored as are Latin American attitudes and views toward the United States. The extent to which the United States has been motivated in its dealing by great power hegemonic concerns, economic self interests (dollar diplomacy), cultural imperialism, human rights, and desire to champion democratic governance are all examined. Contemporary concerns with promoting market economics, narcotic trafficking, and immigration are also considered.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course introduces students to the history and contemporary practice of global governance with an emphasis on international law and international organizations (IOs). Students will learn about the origin and evolution of international law, as well as the institutional structures through which international law is implemented, including, but not limited to, the United Nations (UN), The International Criminal Court (ICC), The World Trade Organization (WTO), and World Health Organization (WHO). The class will explore topics related to human rights, the laws of war, trade law, migration and refugee law, global public health, climate change, and financial stability. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have a basic understanding of the structure, practice, and limitations of global governance, with experience in each of the major issue areas of international politics.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the politics, policies, and institutional processes of the European Union. Theoretical and analytical approaches will be employed to understand the historical and institutional development of the EU as well as current EU-US relations. Experiential learning via a simulation will be part of the course.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Recent issues and problems with special emphasis on superpower behavior around the world. Also, third world revolutions, international terrorism, human rights, international law and the United Nations, and the changing international economic order. Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

The focus is the politics of international economic relations. Alternative analytical and theoretical perspectives will be examined for their value in helping to understand and evaluate the historical developments and current operation of the global economy. Special attention is given to system governance (international regimes such as the World Trade Organization and the International Monetary Fund) and the ability of the nations of the world to provide stability to the international political economy. The primary objective of this course is to develop analytical and theoretical skills in the application of various international political economy perspectives (liberalism, mercantilism, Marxism/structuralism) which examine the interrelationship between states and markets. Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Distance education offering may be available. 2026-2027 CATALOG - UNDERGRADUATE

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Topics include the Arab-Israeli conflict, the politics of the Persian Gulf, the role of OPEC, and the superpower conflict in the region.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course will take a critical look at the implications of the dramatically altered post-9/11 global environment for the conduct of U.S. foreign policy. In particular, students will focus on the strategic choices facing policymakers as well as key policy topics related to military- strategic affairs, economic affairs, and transnational policies such as climate change, trafficking, and global health. Domestic institutions of U.S. foreign policy such as the President and Congress will also be analyzed. Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis Distance education offering may be available.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the dynamics of public opinion and public policy. It also closely examines the nature of public opinion measurement and the vital role the national and international media are playing in forming and changing public opinion. Various theories about media effects are analyzed. Gen Ed Attribute: Community Engagement Pathway, Speaking Emphasis

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the relationship between racial and ethnic groups' political behavior and the American political system's response to them in terms of its public policies. Gen Ed Attribute: Diverse Communities

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Patterns, functions, and history of the American political party system at national, state, and local levels. Theoretical and empirical studies of political interest groups, public opinion, and voting behavior.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course analyzes American elections and voting behavior, with an emphasis on recent presidential elections. Course objectives include understanding American voting patters in elections.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the judicial branch as an actor in law-making and policy-setting, not merely interpreting legal texts. It examines the advisability of the courts playing such a role and their potential effectiveness in doing so. Typically, this will include a focused case study on a policy area of contemporary relevance. PSC 329 Prerequisite: Successful completion of PSC 250 with a minimum grade of D-.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This class will explore Pennsylvania's political system from both a historical and contemporary perspective. It will include analysis and evaluation of the legislative, executive and the judicial branches of the state's government. The political history of Pennsylvania, particularly in regards to elections in the Commonwealth will be focused upon in detail as will contemporary events and policy.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Examination of animating ideas behind most influential dilemmas that affected the political development of the United States. Emphasis on historical context and continuing relevance.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Consideration of the most influential political thinkers over roughly the last one hundred years. While emphasis will be placed on particular thinkers, course will be organized around key topics such as: What is justice and how much should the government do to ensure it? To what extent are human- and by extension, collections of humans that wield political power - capable of rational behavior? In what ways can competing values clash and how do we decide which ones to promote forcefully?

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course invites students to conduct comparative analysis of political cultures, parties, and decision-making, ideologies and political processes across the Latin American region. Students will learn how to explain the complexities of race, class and gender in Latin American social structures, relating historical, economic and cultural legacies to analysis on contemporary issues. Gen Ed Attribute: Diverse Communities, Spanish Culture Cluster Distance education offering may be available. 2026-2027 CATALOG - UNDERGRADUATE DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course introduces students to major processes taking place in parts of the globe that are growing in significance. More than 4/5 of the world's population lives in what is broadly known as the developing world. There is an enormous diversity within it in terms of economic development, political systems, and social conditions. Seemingly contradictory, it is home to both wealthy (Taiwan, Saudi Arabia) and extremely poor nations (sub-Saharan Africa), robust democracies (Costa Rica), and severe authoritarian regimes (Uzbekistan, North Korea). As the developing world grows and expands these nations are poised to shape some of the most important transnational issues such as global migration, security, health, and environment (David, 1992; Veenendaal & Corbett, 2015). As such, WCU students need to be academically exposed to this growing reality. The course intends to do just that from a systematic, diverse perspective. Distance education offering may be available.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

2026-2027 CATALOG - UNDERGRADUATE

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Study of cultural, philosophical, and political systems of modern Asia with special emphasis on China, Japan, and India. Gen Ed Attribute: Writing Emphasis

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Marxism-Leninism, the functioning of the political system, and its domination of all areas of Soviet life. Some brief attention to the conduct of Soviet foreign policy. Gen Ed Attribute: Russian Culture Cluster

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

The course explores African politics, economics, and society through the critical lens of structuralist analysis. A strong focus on the historical and colonial framework's impact on current African developments will be emphasized. Case studies, political analysis, and current events will be used to illustrate the common misperceptions of Africa today. Gen Ed Attribute: Diverse Communities

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Credits. This course examines the power relationships among branches of government and between levels of government. Course will be guided by focus on important constitutional provisions and historically critical Supreme Court decisions, but with time reserved for specific focus on areas of high contemporary interest. Working knowledge of the American legal system is suggested. PSC 350 has a recommended prerequisite of PSC 250 but does not require it.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course examines the relationship between government and its citizens, both in terms of restrictions on government interference with the individual freedom (civil liberties) and obligations on government to prevent discrimination and ensure equality (civil rights). Heaviest focus will be on the constituent clauses of both the First and the Fourteenth Amendments. Working knowledge of the American legal system is suggested. PSC 352 has a recommended prerequisite of PSC 250 but does not require it.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This is a "hands on" course for upper-level social science students as research methods are explored and put into practice in coordination with local organizations working with Latinx peoples. Service learning projects with Latinx people and/or Latinx-led organizations in the region are required. Content material includes demographics of Hispanics in the United States, critical theories from Latinx perspectives, interdisciplinary immigration studies, and Latinx perspectives in relation to social welfare, education, employment, crimes and justice, and politics. Gen Ed Attribute: Spanish Culture Cluster Distance education offering may be available.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course explores the intersections of environmental, economic, and social sustainability at the local, national and global levels. During the semester, students will investigate the policy- making process as it relates to historic and current policy debates. 511

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Deals with the internal and external factors that influence Congressional behavior, including the roles of constituents, pressure groups, parties, the committee system, rules, and the leadership. Their relationships to the president and court structure and their impact on electoral politics also are considered. Comparisons with state legislatures.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course will focus on domestic public policies, particularly policies and policy problems related to issues of inequality within the United States. Gen Ed Attribute: Community Engagement Pathway, Speaking Emphasis

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

In-depth analysis of the nature and significance of the American presidency, including constitutional development, presidential roles and customs, the recruitment process, the executive branch, and the politics of the presidency.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

transfer credit Repeatable for credit.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

This course will examine topics of temporal or special interest which are not normally part of the regular ongoing political science curriculum. Students will be provided an opportunity to pursue specialized research, study, or application of knowledge and skills in an applied setting Repeatable for credit.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Execution of an empirical research project in political science. Involves completion of a major senior paper under supervision of a faculty member. Extensive independent effort required. PSC 401 Prerequisite: Successful completion of PSC 200.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Discussion and application of research design, conceptualization, measurement, operationalization, research models, sampling, and data analysis for political science. Requires full execution of an empirical research paper utilizing quantitative data to reach substantive conclusions. PSC 402 Prerequisite: Successful completion of PSC 200 with a minimum grade of D-.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Research projects, reports, and readings in political science. Open to seniors only.

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu

Contact department for more information about this course. Repeatable for credit. B.A. IN POLITICAL SCIENCE -

Subject

PSC

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

15

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026-2027-undergraduate

Source

catalog.wcupa.edu