Area I- American Government and Politics:

POL 121- American Government and Politics

Surveys major parts of American national government--including Congress, the Presidency, and the courts--as well as campaigns and elections, federalism, interest groups, and political parties. Emphasizes some of the most important problems and controversies in American politics, and
includes group work in which students discuss and debate some of these controversies.

POL 122- Metropolitan Complex

Examines politics in metropolitan areas, emphasizing central cities and focusing on actors, structures and other influences on urban public policy. Discussion-lecture, case studies of Twin Cities metro area, and meetings with public officials and activists.

POL 241- Environmental and River Politics

Explores the politics of the communities and ecosystems of the Upper Mississippi River watershed, including controversies about river pollution, the lock and dam system, regional water supply, flood control, and farming practices. Includes site visits to see how local policy-makers and stakeholders are trying to achieve sustainability in the watershed. 

POL 325- Politics and Public Policy

The domestic policy making process, emphasizing how elected officials, bureaucrats, and interest groups shape government policies in various areas, including tax, environmental, and social welfare policy, given their goals and available tactics. How public policies are formulated and implemented. The results of this process using equity and efficiency criteria.

POL 326- Political Parties and Behavior

The political behaviour of the electorate emphasizing public opinion and political parties in the electoral process. Field work with political parties and interest groups and media in presidential elections (optional in non-presidential election years). (Prereq.: one course in Political Science or consent of instructor. Fall term of election years)

POL 342- Mass Communication in Society

A study of the effects of new information technology, of new communications networks such as the Internet and of the traditional electronic media. Covers uses of technology and media for newsmaking, selling, entertainment and public affairs. Includes issues such as ethics, censorship, and internationalism. (Prereq.: soph., junior or senior standing)

POL 421- Topics in American Politics

Selected themes, including legislative, executive or judicial process, and policy process in American politics; national, urban or state focus; topic to be included in subtitle. (Prereq.: one course in Political Science of consent or instructor)