Andrew McWard's course relied on three papers and two exams, with participation credit in simulation and discussion sections; readings were sometimes tough but supplemental to the lectures.
A historical and analytical study of U.S. foreign policy since World War II, covering policy evolution, institutions, and 21st-century challenges like 9/11 and foreign aid.
Contemporary American Political Thought examines central themes and controversies in American political thinking during the 20th and early 21st centuries.
Introduction to political violence in the modern world, examining forms, causes, consequences, and research methods for studying armed conflict and peace-building.
One student reported that coursework was manageable if they attended lectures and paid attention, and noted that the reading was optional and not tested.
The course examines how social influence shapes political attitudes and actions, focusing on emotions, economics, intergroup relations, social networks, and evolutionary or psychological explanations.
The American Presidency examines the President's roles as chief administrative leader, political leader, foreign policy initiator, commander-in-chief, and head of state.
The course required significant reading and involved three papers. While the workload was manageable for some, others noted that the paper prompts could be confusing and the assignments tough.
Historical examination of American constitutional thinking on individual rights and civil liberties from the founding era to the present, covering the Bill of Rights, Civil War Amendments, federal courts, and federalism.
The course was difficult, with exams requiring advanced constitutional law knowledge comparable to law school level. One student found the material challenging but rewarding, noting the online format allowed for frequent lecture re-watching.
A social science analysis of judicial decision-making theories and how law is made in a political context, focusing on the Supreme Court's operation in an interdependent political environment.
The course was considered difficult, with biweekly readings exceeding 60 pages and two tough papers. Students were also required to purchase all assigned books for the class.
Examines First Amendment cases and literature, focusing on basic principles, purposes, and assumptions within historical and contemporary controversies.
The course required heavy reading before class and three challenging papers. Some students found assignment instructions vague and difficult to navigate, leading to frustration with grading expectations.
This course examines the formation of opinions within and among political publics and their role in the development and practice of governmental policy.
Senior Honors Thesis Seminar supports honors students in writing their political science senior thesis through a seminar focused on conceptualization, research design, and writing.
Public Management examines the role of administration in American government, focusing on organizational problems, bureaucracy, control mechanisms, and how public policy emerges from the administrative process.
Religion and Politics explores the relationships and interactions between religion and politics from a comparative perspective, analyzing how these dynamics shape political behavior across contexts.