126 courses with the subject GOVT, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
GOVT 101Democratic Theory and Practice3
Introduces the study of politics, focusing on the meaning of democracy and the state of democracy in the world today. Topics include contemporary analysis of liberty, equality, representation, property rights, voting rights, and civil responsibilities.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Social/Behavioral SciencesSchedule Type: Lecture, RecitationGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
An overview of key organizing principles of American government, including its institutions, history, and various aspects of political participation.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Just Societies, Social/Behavioral SciencesSchedule Type: Lecture, RecitationGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Nature of international politics, approaches to study of international politics, state and nonstate actors in international system, patterns of action and interaction between nation-states, international institutions, and major global issues.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Global Contexts, Global UnderstandingSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores differences in politics and governance across the world. Topics studied include state formation, democracy and authoritarianism, economic development, political participation, political representation, and regime change.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Global Contexts, Global UnderstandingSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines human security—the protection of individuals and communities from harm. Provides tools to understand and analyze the grand challenges to human security that threaten peace, stability, and sustainable development in the 21st century. Examines the efforts of agencies, courts, NGOs, transnational advocacy networks, and individuals working to address these evolving and growing needs.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Global Contexts, Global Understanding, Just SocietiesSchedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Introduces the roles of government and industry in the rapid developments of information and communication technology, including data, networks, and computation. Considers legal, economic, political, sociological, public health and moral perspectives on major issues in technology development and regulation in the U.S. and around the world.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Just Societies, Social/Behavioral SciencesSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale. 200 Level Courses
Provides a broad survey of the literature and concepts that help explain the intersection of race and American politics to include the relationships various racial groups have with the American political system.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course teaches pertinent approaches to the study of climate and environmental politics and policy. By the end of the course, you will be well positioned to pursue further work on environmental and climate change policy in any context.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines the challenges posed by global migration and the political responses of national communities to this phenomenon. Surveys the nature of migration, dynamics of immigration policy, border control, citizenship, and regimes.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Social/Behavioral SciencesSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course focuses on lies that use data and misinformation. How do data and statistics enable the spread of lies (actual falsehoods) and misinformation (misleading but technically not false), and, most importantly, how do we spot them?Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Social/Behavioral SciencesSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale. 300 Level Courses
Emphasizes asking clear, researchable questions and answering them with appropriate evidence. Studies qualitative and quantitative approaches, including survey design and analysis, government archives, case studies, and journal interpretations. Examines the ethical implications of information technologies. Notes: Required for all majors in government and international politics, international security and law, and public administration. Strongly recommended before or during first semester of enrolling in 300-level courses.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Info Tech & ComputingRecommended Prerequisite: 60 hours or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: Laboratory, LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
American judicial organization and operation, role of the Supreme Court in policy formation, and selected constitutional principles.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to CRIM 301.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Nature, organization, functions, and problems of American state and local governments.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Organization, processes, functions, and roles of legislature and U.S. Congress members. Topics may include state legislatures and cross-national comparisons.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Survey of modern presidency, including constitutional origins of the office, growth and influence of White House staff, presidential appointees and control of executive branch, and the Cabinet. Also explores presidential relations with Congress and domestic and national security policy-making.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines the characteristics and functions of political parties, the influence of parties and other political forces on electoral decisions, and the ability or inability of parties to hold government accountable to citizens.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines political topics through a psychological lens using theoretical approaches, methods, and themes. Topics may include the motivation of presidents, why some groups will seek to kill off other groups through acts of genocide, how authoritarian states emerge, and what goes through your mind as you cast your ballot on Election Day.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 318Interest Groups, Lobbying, and the Political Process3
Examines the role, history, internal operations, strategies, and activities of interest groups, primarily at the federal level, exploring the ways interest groups influence public policy and the democratic process. Considers conditions under which social movements become, or fail to become, effective interest groups and agents of change.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Studies special issues relevant to government and politics. Topics announced in advance. Examples include politics and the arts, ethnic conflict and the political system, gender politics, and changing dynamics in political institutions. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Advanced inquiry into the theories, concepts, and approaches used to analyze global events. Explores the major forces and issues in international politics, and applies theoretical concerns to practical cases in international relations.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132 or 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Lectures, discussions of developments in Western tradition of political thought from time of Greek city-state to late medieval Christendom. Topics include nature and purpose of politics, relationship between individual and state, political significance of religion and tradition, and concept of natural law.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to PHIL 323.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, or three credits of Philosophy.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Lectures, discussions of developments in Western tradition of political thought from Renaissance to mid-19th century. Topics include rise of individualism in political theory, early developments in social contact theory, theories of radical popular sovereignty, and early criticisms of liberal theory.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to PHIL 324.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, or three credits of Philosophy.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 327Topics in Contemporary Western Political Theory3
Studies special issues relevant to developments in the Western tradition of political thought from mid-19th century to today. Topics vary by semester and focus on political theories influential during this period, such as liberal, libertarian, conservative, communitarian, Marxist, feminist, and postmodern.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits. Equivalent to PHIL 327.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101 or three credits of Philosophy.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
GOVT 329Issues in Political Theories and Values1-3
Studies special issues relevant to theoretical and value aspects of government and politics. Topics announced in advance. Examples include ethics and politics, ethics and environmental policy, changing perspectives on civil rights and liberties, religion and politics, and changing views of public space. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Examines the political and economic variety found across Africa’s diverse societies by addressing issues of political organization; the presence or absence of democratic rule; peace and conflict; how pre-colonial, colonial, and post-independence periods shape politics; and the effects of domestic and international forces on economic development. Previous knowledge of African politics is not required.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, GOVT 133Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Contemporary politics, foreign policy, and society in Latin America. Presents critical issues relevant to all countries within the region, such as democratization, development promotion, responses to human rights abuses, and national and international security.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 332Politics of the Middle East and North Africa3
Examines political governance and socio-economic conditions of countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Topics include history and political systems; economic, social and political issues and challenges; and international relations of the countries in the MENA region.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Specialized Designation: Non-Western CultureRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Government structures and political processes of East Asian countries. Examines patterns of conflict and cooperation, and issues of economic development and political reform in rapidly changing world.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Specialized Designation: Non-Western CultureRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines governance and politics in Europe at the national and supranational (European Union) levels, with an emphasis on actors, institutions, processes, and behavior. Explores key policies in a variety of fields, such as climate, migration, and economic and monetary union, as well as the impact of recent crises.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Focusing on India and Pakistan, this course is divided into three main sections. The first deals with domestic politics and society in each country: how do these states “work” internally? The second covers issues of security, conflict, and violence at the personal, local, regional, national, and international levels in South Asia. The third situates India and Pakistan in a wider regional and global context.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, GOVT 133Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines politics and international relations of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, from the Soviet era to the present. Explores political, economic, and cultural changes since the Soviet collapse and how states and societies in Eurasia are addressing diverse local and global challenges.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Specialized Designation: Non-Western CultureRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 339Issues in the Politics of Advanced Industrial Societies1-3
Studies selected current political issues in the industrial democracies of Western Europe and North America. While specific topics each semester reflect contemporary political concerns, the political process in advanced industrial countries is the organizing principle throughout the course. Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103 or 133 or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Discusses theories and practices of Chinese foreign policy decision making, which are then used to understand China's relations with United States, Japan, Russia, Europe, and its Asian neighbors, and China's policy in issues such as human rights, environmental protection, and nuclear nonproliferation.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Specialized Designation: Non-Western CultureRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Origins of organized diplomacy: tasks, procedures, instruments, and problems of diplomacy. Emphasizes current, future roles of diplomacy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Introduces international political economy. Examines interplay of economics and politics, and applies these to different issues and regions. Focuses on issues of contemporary significance, with attention to historical trajectories, development, and basic concepts of political economy. This course might have a regional focus.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133; or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Central issues surrounding the conduct of America's foreign relations, with special emphasis on structural and constitutional questions, national policy objectives abroad, and conduct of foreign policy in a democracy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Covers the politics of religion in Muslim societies; history, ideology, and practices of key individuals, movements, and institutions; case studies of political Islam in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the West; the plurality and diversity of political expression in Muslim world; the nature of democracy in political Islam and the characteristics of the Islamic state; link Islam and politics to the ongoing globalization and an increase in radicalism.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Specialized Designation: Non-Western CultureSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Approaches U.S. National security policy from perspective of organization and implementation of specific policies. Applies theoretical concerns to historic cases to illuminate problems that continue to challenge country.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores enduring security problems and new developments. Examines effects of international system on defense policies of states, particularly tensions of world caught between emerging interdependence and national demands. Encourages development of critical-thinking and group and oral presentation skills.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Administrative structures and processes in political setting of public management. Presents organization and administrative theory, critiques, and current practices; and examines impact of changes in social, political, and economic environment on concepts, models.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Policy professionals today need to understand the power of technologies to create politics, and of specific processes by which technologies might be consciously shaped. Such understanding underpins the ability – and responsibility – to manage technologies and their effects. As interactions among technologies, organizations and cultures intensify, and conflicts among them and in the wider society intensify as well. This course is designed not only to help minimize such failures, but to maximize success in administrative, policy and political contexts.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Introduces students to the thousands of soup kitchens, shelters, health clinics, educational institutions, arts agencies, and other organizations that make up the U.S. nonprofit sector. Topics covered include: the internal structure and operation of nonprofits; the role of nonprofits in delivering services, advocating for particular points of view, and providing vehicles for caring and self-expression; and the partnerships that nonprofits form with donors, government agencies, and businesses to address social problems.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Analyzes techniques and tools in human resource management including merit system, classification, compensation, evaluation, recruitment, and labor relations. Emphasizes current legal and policy issues in personnel administration, such as diversity and privatization.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 351.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Covers tools and techniques in budgeting and financial management in U.S. governments, including management of public financial institutions, budgetary process and reform, and relationship of public budgeting to national economic policy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 351.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Reviews spatial, policy, and administration principles that guide urban planning activities in the United States. Outlines differences between theory and practice and provides tools, methods, and perspectives commonly incorporated into practice of urban planning and policy analysis.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to GGS 357.Recommended Prerequisite: 30 creditsSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Develops financial management and planning skills for leadership in the nonprofit sector, with emphasis on the balance between social missions and entrepreneurial demands that shape financial planning and accounting in nonprofits. Topics include budgeting, cost analysis, financial statement interpretation, revenue sources and projections, and internal control systems.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: 60 credits or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Environmental politics and policy making since the 1970s. Primarily U.S. focus, with some discussion of global issues. Examines policy strategies and outcomes, ethical and economic debates, political controversies, lawmaking and enforcement, and role of key players.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to EVPP 361.Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused CourseRecommended Prerequisite: 30 credits.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines environmental issues building on learning objectives from GOVT 361. Focuses on environmental and policy issues in the US and internationally, exploring the politics of nature and the interaction of environmental science and politics and resulting controversy. Risk and uncertainty loom large in most environmental issues. Covers "natural" disasters as well as direct "man-made" problems.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits. Equivalent to EVPP 362.Recommended Prerequisite: EVPP 361 or GOVT 361 or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.
GOVT 363Science and Technology Institutions/Policy3
Explores the relationship between scientific achievement and geopolitical power in the development of science and technology institutions and policy. Introduces the history of modern sci-tech development in the U.S and places it in a global comparative perspective. Develops skills to critique current policies and suggest improvements.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores how public policy is designed, implemented, and evaluated; why certain issues gain policy attention while others do not; and what contributes to policy success or failure. Topics include the relationship between politics and public policy, stages of policy development, key actors and dynamics, and factors influencing policy outcomes.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines policy problems through economic, political, institutional, and social equity lenses, while exploring the limitations of systematic analysis in political contexts. Develops skills to assess actions relevant to public decisions for clients and evaluate outcomes on topics such as housing, energy, drug legalization, pollution, health, poverty, and well-being.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Applies basic economic concepts and principles to issues facing the U.S. and global economies. Topics include productivity and economic growth, taxes, health care, globalization, income distribution and financial crises, with an emphasis on market structure, social institutions and the not-always rational behavior of investors and consumers.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to ECON 367.Mason Core: Mason Core, Social/Behavioral SciencesSchedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Applies a quantitative approach to the economic framework of public policy, with an emphasis on economic models to evaluate both market outcomes and policy interventions. Topics may include consumer and producer behavior under different market structures, how and why markets can fail to produce socially desirable outcomes, income distribution, and macroeconomic growth.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 367.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines new challenges for U.S. and international governance systems in a rapidly expanding cyber world, covering existing laws, practices, social norms, and options for countering security threats and forming policies. Topics may include nonstate actors and international security, misinformation and weaponized information, ransomware, cryptocurrencies, and public regulation of private companies.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Experiential-based individualized or small group studies, mentored by instructor. Topics determined by student(s) and instructor. Requirements must be detailed in individualized course contract or syllabus approved by instructor. May include reading assignments, papers, project briefs, and portfolios.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesSchedule Type: InternshipGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Study abroad. Course topics, content, and locations vary. Notes: GOVT 398 may only be applied to a major or minor with prior written approval from the department. A maximum of 6 credits may be applied to the BA in government and international politics, the BS in public administration, or any minor offered by the Schar School of Policy and Government.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesSchedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Applies research methods to assist with faculty research, using such methods as data collection, data analysis, library research, coding, and manuscript preparation. Individualized sections taught by arrangement with faculty member.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300 and Permission of Instructor.Schedule Type: ResearchGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale. 400 Level Courses
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Explores special issues concerning the analytical approaches used to study government and politics. Topics vary by semester and may include advanced statistical methods, time series analysis, game theory, social network analysis, geographic information systems, social science experiments, and causal inference. Note: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department. Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRegistration Restrictions: Required Prerequisites: GOVT 300C or 300XS.C Requires minimum grade of C.XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Examines the relationship between law and society, focusing on the nature and function of law, its historical development, and its role in shaping and responding to social change. Studies theoretical frameworks and methodologies for understanding how law influences social behavior, structures, and values, while also assessing how social forces impact the creation, interpretation, and evolution of laws.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: CRIM 100 or GOVT 301.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines politics in Virginia, with a focus on the legislative process, key legislative issues, and the development of policies and laws. Pays particular attention to the influence of political actors and the practical working of Virginia’s General Assembly.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Responsibilities and freedoms of mass media in democracy. Explores Influence of media on citizens' opinions, elections, and decisions of public officials.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to COMM 412.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines political, economic, and social impact of public policies and implications for race, gender, and age.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Studies major political values and theories in America from formation of American republic to present. Explores the ways political thought changes during crisis periods, and covers contemporary American political theories including pluralism, elite theories of democracy, and empirical political theory.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores how the U.S. Supreme Court interprets the constitution, focusing on decisions regarding the constitutional powers of Congress, the presidency, and the judiciary. Analyzes landmark rulings on the relationship between the federal government and the states, emphasizing issues like state regulation, taxation, and interstate relations.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 423Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Liberties3
Examines the foundational laws and policies designed to establish and protect civil rights and individual liberties in the U.S. and strategies used to promote and enforce these protections. Students will explore key constitutional protections, including First Amendment freedoms (speech, press, assembly, association, and religion), the right to privacy, and equal protection under the Fourteenth Amendment.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to CRIM 423.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 426Political Theory of Autonomous Algorithms3
Explores questions of agency as associated with tools, machines, objects, data, and (semi) autonomous algorithms, with considerations of how political theory informs the evolving study of public data. Examines the relationship between concept of ‘humanity’ and the world of tools and machines, concepts of objects as data, the political nature of tools, and how tools ‘act’ and have ‘agency’ in the world.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores feminist political thought in historical context. Topics include feminist political movements, feminist critiques of political philosophy, and feminist contributions to political theory.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, WMST 200, 3 credits of PHIL, or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores various theoretical approaches to nature and justification of democracy. Topics may include liberal, communitarian, pluralist, and deliberative theories and their critics; constitutionalism; role of markets; and transnational democracy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101; or one course in PHIL.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores comparative political leadership, relationships between political cultures and types of leadership, patterns of leadership recruitment, and linkages between political elites and citizenry.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Analyzes how democracy is practiced globally by comparing it with other political systems and studies why democracy succeeds or fails in different regions of the world. . Examines the phenomenon of democratic waves, democratic transitions, and how democracy is shaped by economics, culture, gender, media and technology, electoral and party systems, social and transnational movements.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 435Data Analysis for Comparative and International Politics3
Provides tools for organizing and conducting original empirical research in the fields of comparative and international politics. Considers the analytical logic of quantitative methods and their practical application using statistical software. Topics may include data management practice; comparative public opinion; categorizing regime types; implications of international organization; global health and energy policy; and political violence, conflict, and civil war.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300 and 3 credits of Mason Core Quantitative ReasoningSchedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Inquiry into why, how, and for what purposes states employ their national power abroad, relating these questions to an examination of foreign policy formulation and deployment. Advanced introduction to the relationship between war, peacetime settlements, politics, and strategy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores sources of morality in armed conflict, and implications of such ideas for international relations. Examines content and philosophy of modern law of war.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Major issues in international systems, including international political economy and security. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Explores the philosophical, legal, and political issues at the heart of the modern international human rights movement, examining its historical background and legal architecture.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines the contrast between international and domestic law and the relationship between world politics and international law. Focuses on issues such as use of force, human rights, environment, international trade and diplomacy. Explores philosophical groundings, and the role of multilateral institutions and international tribunals in anchoring the international system.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 132, 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Historical overview of modern revolutions as well as different theories about causes and consequences of revolutions. Special attention to Marxist-Leninist, Arab nationalist, and Islamic revolutions.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 133.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Overview of the role of ethics and morals in international politics, with an overarching focus on issues such as distributive justice and use of force. Students develop, apply, and justify their own perspectives on ethical problems using philosophical theory, history, and social science research.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: 60 hours and GOVT 132 or PHIL 151.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Explores the administrative state, examining its historical development and the scope of power exercised by government agencies. Studies the sources of administrative law, as well as key legal questions surrounding agency authority and procedures in shaping public policy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 351.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 460Surveillance and Privacy in Contemporary Society3
Philosophical perspectives, historical context, technological developments, and institutional changes that surround controversies about privacy and surveillance in contemporary society. Explores public and private institutions doing surveillance, how they calculate and manage risk, and legal constraints on surveillance activities.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to CRIM 460.Recommended Prerequisite: CRIM 100.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Examines the policy implications of human expansion across the solar system concerning politics, property rights, resource management, and relationships with Earth-based governments. Explores historical context and develops skills to use evidence in defending specific space-based policy goals.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Investigates the interactions among public policy, law, public administration, data analytics, and role of digital technologies. Considers the application of principles such as digital ethics, equity, public values, navigating "fake news," privacy in the digital age, and how technology can serve and engage the public.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 463Artificial Intelligence: Technological and Societal Implications3
Explores the philosophical underpinnings and ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms on individual experiences and society. Investigates the challenges inherent in AI systems and their impacts on various communities. Develops critical perspectives to navigate evolving AI technological, governance, and societal landscapes.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 464Issues in Public Policy and Administration1-3
Analyzes select policy issues in administering public policies. Topics announced in advance and may include environmental policy, government regulation, federal mandates, state policy, and regional policy. May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 103 plus 60 credits.Schedule Type: LectureGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Using case studies from last 60 years, explores how decisions and policy are made as politicians reconcile policy preferences with political realities, institutional dynamics, expert opinion and personal ambition. Meets once a week in Washington, with guest speakers from White House, Congress and policy community. Develops skills to design and defend a politically realistic policy proposal to solve a significant national problem. Students must have familiarity with, and interest in, modern American history, politics and government.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to two attempts.Recommended Prerequisite: Open to PPE concentrators or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Covers issues in the philosophy, economics, and political science of institutions, information, and collective action. Through case studies of existing legal and political institutions, applies the insights to problems in politics, policy making, social theory, and social, moral, and political philosophy. (Specific content varies).Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to ECON 460, PHIL 460.Recommended Prerequisite: PHIL 358, ECON 412, and GOVT 467, or permission of instructor.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
Approved internships with specific employer. Programs relate in some capacity to government, politics, public policy, or the law. For 3 credits, a minimum of 135 hours is required. 3 credits of GOVT 480 may be applied to field study requirements. No more than 6 credits of GOVT 480 may be applied toward a student's 120 (Schar) degree applicable credits.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 101, GOVT 103, GOVT 132, and GOVT 133.Schedule Type: InternshipGrading: This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Readings, individual or group projects, and discussion of papers reflecting on connections between liberal arts and sciences and political world. Notes: Course topic varies by semester.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Mason Apex, Synthesis, Writing Intensive in MajorSpecialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300 and 18 credits in major.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Administration of Justice, Global Affairs, Government and Politics, Government Intl Politics, International Studies, International Security Law or Public Administration.
Readings, individual or group projects, and discussions of seminar papers. Notes: Subject varies.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Mason Apex, Synthesis, Writing Intensive in MajorRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 300 and 18 credits in major.Schedule Type: SeminarGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GOVT 492Computing Ethics, Law and Policy Seminar60
Writing-intensive study of ethical and legal considerations in technology policy, with a focus on the roles of government, industry, and individuals in rapid technological development. Considers various approaches to societal-level impacts of computing innovations, and develops skills to synthesize points of view and communicate ideas to a policy audience.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. Limited to three attempts.Mason Core: Mason Core, Mason Apex, Capstone, Synthesis, Writing Intensive in MajorRecommended Prerequisite: Junior standing (at least 60 credit hours).Recommended Corequisite: All required Mason Core courses.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Applied Computer Science, Computer Science, Government Intl Politics, International Security Law or Public Administration.
Reading and research on specific topic under direction of faculty member. Notes: Written report required; oral report of research may be required.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: Major in government and international politics with 90 credits and permission of instructor and department.Schedule Type: Independent StudyGrading: This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale. 500 Level Courses
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
GOVT 500The Scientific Method and Research Design3
Grounds students in the principles of the scientific method as the framework for investigating all research questions in political science, whether qualitative or quantitative in character (or both). Focus is on sound and rigorous research design.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Examines institutions and processes of American government, including separate institutions of power in national government, theory and practice of federal system, role of interest groups and political parties, and effects of media and public opinion on electoral behavior and policy making. Seminar examining normative and empirical research.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Analyzes selected major works of ancient, modern, or contemporary political theory that illuminate basic problems and questions for people engaged in political or civic life. Examines justice, liberty, equality, autonomy, rights, obligation, participation, and nature of politics.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to the MA in political science or permission of department.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Examines fundamental issues in comparative politics and provides broad coverage of the central themes under study. Designed to help students think theoretically and critically about the study of comparative politics, its scientific objectives, and its epistemological assumptions. Within this context, students will look at concepts and approaches, as well as important theories and debates that characterize the subfield. Helps prepare students for qualifying exams in comparative politics.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Focuses on changing structure of international politics, post-Cold War security issues, effect of globalized economy and information technology revolution, enhanced role of global corporations and nongovernmental organizations, and rise of nonsecurity issues in emerging international agenda.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 550Seminar in Theories of Public Administration3
Reviews the theoretical traditions in American public administration, from the earliest days of the founding to the present. Concludes with consideration of contemporary theoretical debates over the proper role of public administrators and controversies about conflicting demands made on the public service and the public sector.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 510.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 560Topics in Government and International Affairs3
Explores topics of contemporary and emerging concern in government and international affairs.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRegistration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 603Seminar in the Courts and Constitutionalism3
Analyzes the role, influence, and effects of courts in creating constitutional legal norms and interpreting them. Special attention is paid to the courts as a political institution. Lecture and discussion; students are expected to read and analyze both court cases and case studies.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 604Seminar on Congress and Legislative Behavior3
Examines theories and empirical research on the U.S. Congress and legislative behavior, including elections, representation, structures, and processes. Also examines Congress' impact on the design and implementation of public policy, interactions with other branches of government, and comparisons with parliamentary systems.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 510.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Examines the American presidency from a number of substantive and methodological perspectives. Readings and discussions in the course appraise the presidency within the system and focus on the role the presidency plays in formulating and implementing public policy.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 510.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 631Seminar in Comparative Politics and Institutions3
Examines theories and practices of governance and development in comparative national settings. Course explores key subsets of the comparative politics literature in depth, including institutional change, regime types and transitions, democracy and authoritarianism, states and state-society relations, revolution, social movements, political cultures, and methods. Course is explicitly conceptual and cross-regional. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRegistration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 632Politics and Societies of the Middle East3
Studies the Middle East in comparative perspective, using social scientific categories of analysis. Topics include: regime types, their basis and causes; influential political trends such as Arab nationalism, Ba'athism, and political Islam; the role of kinship, religion, and tribe in opposition and regime politics; the regional oil economy and economic crisis; democratic liberalization; and the growth of civil society.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
GOVT 706Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations3
Examines broad trends in governance, including theory and practice of federal, state, and local governments. May include privatization, devolution, mandating, regulatory reform, and comprehensive federalism reform.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 510.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Focuses on scientific design of qualitative research questions and use of specific qualitative methods in scientific analysis. Covers when and how to use qualitative research methods to answer empirical questions in political science; primary data collection methods (interviews, observations, document review); the appropriateness of different research approaches; procedural and ethical concerns that may arise in use of qualitative methods. Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 511 or permission of instructor.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Examines significant issue in American politics and political behavior. Analyzes topic of contemporary and emerging concern. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 510.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Contemporary, historical, and comparative study of key themes in Political Theory. Topics may include theories of sovereignty, power, democracy, secularism, political economy, justice, humanism, race, empire, colonialism, gender, and sexuality.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate or Non-Degree.
Examines democracy in terms of versions of liberalism, theories of social capital and civic participation, and discourses about civil, political, and human rights. How is democracy conceptualized normatively and empirically? What underlying economic, social, and cultural conditions promote democracy? What role do institutions play in creating and sustaining a stable democratic society? Takes a broadly comparative perspective, focusing on variety of established and emerging democracies around the world. Elective for students specializing in American government or international politics and comparative governments.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Overview of ancient and modern theories of justice with application to contemporary issues involving justice system and other social and political institutions.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit. Equivalent to CRIM 700.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Assumes basic proficiency in comparative analysis. Regionally based examination of key debates in the comparative politics field. Key theoretical and methodological debates are addressed through in depth examination of regional political processes. Regions include Latin America, Asia, Middle East, European Union, Africa, and Russia. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 530.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Provides an overview and understanding of the multifaceted nature of political Islam in the contemporary world. Covers brief history of Islam, formation of modern states in the post-colonial Muslim world, nature of contemporary Islamic radicalism and militancy and the future of Islamism.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
GOVT 739Issues in Comparative and International Politics3
Explores issues of contemporary and emerging concern in comparative and international politics. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 540.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
GOVT 741Advanced Seminar in International Politics3
Examines theoretical and methodological issues central to study of international relations by focusing on specific topic: American foreign policy, diplomacy, international law and organization, international relations theory, international ethics, human rights and humanitarian intervention, the environment, and others. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: GOVT 540.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department.
Examines frameworks and perspectives that have guided scholarly work on negotiation. Students will analyze complex cases of negotiations in the areas of security, trade, and the environment, and practice negotiating key security and environmental issues on the agendas of nations and international organizations.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Examines interplay of international politics and economics. Discusses theoretical perspectives and analytical tools in academic field of international political economy, and applies theories and tools to trade, investment, exchange rates, development, regionalization, and globalization. Explores how international economic and political forces increasingly shape domestic interests, and how domestic politics affect international political economy. Lecture, discussion.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 343 or equivalent.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Introduces students to a selection of the original sources of the most important ideas that form the basis of security studies as a subfield of political science.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Examines interplay of international politics and international security. Discusses theoretical perspectives and analytical tools in academic field of international security, and applies theories and tools to nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons, strategy and defense, and arms control. How domestic issues affect defense policies, terrorism, changing nature of international conflict, and human security will be examined.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 540.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Examines design and management of public service programs relying on various levels of government, the nonprofit and private sectors for delivery, with focus on organizational networks, their management, and tools (e.g., contracts, grants, loans, regulation, and tax credits).Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Explores research and theory on political causes and effects of actions of government bureaucratic agencies. Readings examine origins of agencies, influences on decisions and programs, sources of internal and external accountability, pathologies of bureaucracies, and contributions bureaucracies make on effective and just governance.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 510.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Examines the terrorist attacks of 9/11, vulnerabilities of the aviation security at that time, failure of elected officials and administrators to act more decisively to improve security before 9/11, and the policy and administrative responses to the 9/11 attacks, including the creation of the Transportation Security Administration and the Department of Homeland Security. Includes the development of radical Islam and the rise of Osama bin Laden and Al Qaeda.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Reading and research on specific topic under direction of faculty member. Notes: Written paper required.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.Specialized Designation: Topic VariesRecommended Prerequisite: 15 credits of GOVT courses at 500 level and above, and permission of instructor.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
6
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Research project related to student's concentration under supervision of a faculty advisor. Student produces substantial and original contribution to political science knowledge on model of article in scholarly journal.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.Recommended Prerequisite: 24 credits. Including the following courses: GOVT 500, GOVT 510, GOVT 520, GOVT 530, GOVT 540, and POGO 511.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.
Substantial and original research paper with guidance of faculty advisor. Thesis proposal must be approved in advance by advisor and two faculty members who comprise thesis committee. Completed research must be approved by committee and defended publicly in oral presentation.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the degree.Recommended Prerequisite: 24 credits and approval of thesis proposal.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Provides an opportunity for PhD students in political science to present and refine independent research, and to further improve understanding of social scientific method as they prepare for conference presentations, qualifying exams, and subsequent dissertations.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May not be repeated for credit.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Political Science.
Work on research proposal that forms basis for doctoral dissertation.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the degree.Recommended Prerequisite: Advancement to candidacy.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Research on approved dissertation topic under direction of dissertation committee. Notes: May be repeated for up to 9 credits in a semester.Offered by Schar Govt/International Affrs. May be repeated within the degree.Registration Restrictions: Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy.
Subject
GOVT
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
12
Credit unit
credits
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated for up to 9 credits in a semester.
