Course Descriptions
POSC
1003 - United States Government - 3 credit hours
Introductory survey of the American political system,
including study of the philosophical basis of American government,
the three branches of the federal government, federal-state
relations, civil rights, political parties, campaigns, the role of
the media, and lobby groups. Course rotation: All
semesters.
2103 - Survey of Modern & Contemporary
Political Thought - 3 credit hours
Political theorists from the 16th to the 20th century are used to
examine a series of major questions (e.g., human nature, power,
authority, justice, liberty, equality, and legitimacy) which are
central to political theory and political science. In addition,
students will be introduced to the core modern ideologies (e.g.
liberalism, conservatism, and socialism). This course is discussion
oriented and designed to develop the student's critical reading and
thinking abilities. Course rotation: Spring.
3103 - United States Legislatures - 3 credit
hours
Examines the role of the legislative branch in the American
political system. The focus is primarily on the U.S. Congress.
State legislatures including the Commonwealth of Kentucky,
representation, the sources of legislative power, the institutions
involved in formulating legislation, and the people who participate
in the legislative process will also be discussed. The role
elections, leadership and parties play in the legislative process
will be examined. Recommended for students contemplating a
legislative internship. Prerequisite:
POSC 1003. Course rotation: Spring even years.
3203 - Survey of Classical Political Thought - 3 credit
hours
Selected political theorists from classical antiquity, the medieval
period, and the renaissance are used to examine a series of major
questions (e.g., human nature, power, authority, justice, and
liberty) which are central to political theory and political
science. In addition, students are introduced to the origins of our
Western political thought and culture. This course is discussion
oriented and designed to develop the student's critical reading and
thinking abilities. Course rotation: Fall even years.
3303 - Political Parties, Interest Groups &
Mass Movements - 3 credit hours
Systematic examination of the methods of popular control
of American Government, particularly the role of political parties,
interest groups and mass movements as mechanisms for popular
participation in the American political process.
4103 - American Political Thought - 3 credit hours
Selected political thinkers from the history of American
Political thought are used to explore the core values and beliefs
that define the American political system and culture. In
addition, this course will discuss the liberal, republican, and
religious traditions that have had such a strong influence in the
U.S. Course rotation: Fall odd years.