Department of Political Science

Undergraduate Academic Center 355A
T: 512. 245.2143 F: 512. 245.7815
www.polisci.txstate.edu

Political science is the study of government, the most important decision-making part of society, and of the social, economic, and other institutions and practices that influence this decision-making process. On the one hand, it is a discipline that can trace its roots to the ancient Greek political community, the polis; but it is also a modern social science, which uses techniques such as content analysis, public opinion surveys, and statistical analysis to create and evaluate generalizations about how government and people behave.

As a liberal arts discipline, the department is dedicated to developing analytical skills, effective oral and written communication, and promoting critical thinking. Students are encouraged to reflect not simply on their career goals, but also on what type of persons they want to become, and on their rights and duties as citizens. The department's internship program prepares students for the transition from college to career by offering opportunities to earn academic credit and gain practical experience working for various federal, state, local, or non-profit community agencies.

Political science prepares students for careers in various fields, not only in government, law, and education but also in business, journalism, urban planning, and many fields on which public policies have a significant effect.

In addition to bachelor degree options in political science and public administration, the department offers master’s degree programs in political science, public administration, and legal studies, including a paralegal studies certificate. Undergraduate students have opportunities to begin graduate study while completing their undergraduate degree through 3+2 degree plan options.

Recognition of Student Scholarship

The Annual Professor Henderson Award

The Department of Political Science annually presents the Professor Henderson Award to the graduating Political Science major with the highest overall GPA (the award may be for either a December or May graduate of the current academic year). The award has the purpose of recognizing and honoring a student of Political Science who has, as a student at Texas State, displayed academic excellence and character in the tradition and values cherished and exhibited by Richard B. Henderson, Distinguished Professor Emeritus.

The Howard M. “Prof” Greene Award

This award honors an academic mentor in politics to Lyndon B. Johnson and thousands of other Texas State alumni and goes to one or more graduating Political Science majors who have earned overall Texas State grade-point averages of 3.9 or above.

Interested students who believe they may be eligible for these awards should consult with the Department Chair.

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Bachelor of Public Administration (B.P.A.)

Minors

Subjects in this department include: POSI, PS, PA

Courses in Political Science (POSI)

POSI 2310. Principles of American Government.

A survey of the principles of political science, of the American system of government, and of the origins and development of the constitutions of the United States and Texas. Satisfies the legislative requirements for teacher certification.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Govt/Pol Science Core 070
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
TCCN: GOVT 2306

POSI 2320. Functions of American Government.

This course is a study of functions performed in the American system of government, both national and state, within the framework of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Govt/Pol Science Core 070
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
TCCN: GOVT 2305

Courses in Political Science (PS)

PS 2304. Introduction to Political Science.

This course is an introductory survey of the discipline of political science, focusing on the history, scope, and methods of the field and the substantive topics in the discipline. Prerequisite: POSI 2310 or POSI 2320 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3300. Basic Political Ideas.

This course examines fundamental ideas of the Western political tradition including conservatism, liberalism, socialism, democracy, and totalitarianism.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3301. Basic Political Institutions.

This course examines political institutions emphasizing the fundamentals of political science research/analysis, the tools used in bibliographical research, and methods of locating and presenting data for comparing political institutions.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3311. American Political Thought: From the Colonial Period to Civil War.

This course examines the development of American political ideas from the colonial period through the Civil War. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3312. American Political Thought: From Reconstruction to Present.

This course examines the development of American political ideas from Reconstruction to the present. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3313. Contemporary Political Theory.

This course examines selected theories, ideologies, and movements in 20th and 21st century political theory. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3314. Politics and Personality.

This course is an undergraduate seminar exploring the relationship between political behavior and human motivation. Topics include: psychological perspectives and political theory, personality and political orientation, and the political personality. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3315. Quantitative Research in Political Science.

This course introduces statistical theories and quantitative analyses, and examines methodological concepts, definitions and procedures, various hypotheses testing and integrated research applications in the discipline of Political Science. Prerequisite: MATH 1312 or MATH 1315 or MATH 1316 or MATH 1317 or MATH 1319 or MATH 1329 or MATH 2321 or MATH 2417 or MATH 2471 or HON 2302A or HON 2302B any with a grade of "C" or better. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3321. Campaigns and Elections.

This course examines the dynamics of American political campaigns and elections at the federal and state level. The analysis and discussion will include theoretical evaluations of voting, campaigns, and elections as well as technical and practical information about campaign strategies. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3322. Political Parties and Party Politics.

This course examines the American political party system, including its history and organization, suffrage, nominations, elections, campaigns, and the related areas of public opinion and pressure group activities.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3323. Congress and the Legislative Process.

This course examines the dynamics of lawmaking and legislative politics in the United States. This course analyzes, compares, and evaluates the structure, party organization, rules of procedure, and actual operation of the Congress and of selected state legislatures (including Texas). Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3324. The American Presidency.

This course examines, in depth, both the presidency of the United States and the individuals who have held it.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3325. State and Local Government.

This course examines the organization, functions, and powers of state, county, and municipal governments in the United States with particular reference to patterns of such governments in Texas. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3326. Issues and Interest Groups: Power and Pressure in America.

This course examines selected issues at the state and national level and the interest groups which attempt to influence governmental decisions about them. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3327. The American Founding.

This course examines the origins, nature, and foundations of the American Constitutional system with special emphasis on the Federalist and Anti-Federalist debates and the writing of the Constitution. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3328. Politics in Film.

This course examines films which explicitly address political issues such as racism in the United States, the conflict between public duty and private conscience, politics and media manipulation, and the role of perception in all the actions people take.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3331. The Supreme Court and the Judicial Process.

This course examines the judiciary, focusing upon the politics of judicial selection and the decision-making process of the judiciary as well as the position of the judiciary in the entire political process. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3332. Constitutional Law: Basic Structures and Principles.

This course examines and analyzes, through a constitutional case study approach, the fundamental principles of governmental structure with an emphasis on the office and powers of the President, Congress, and inter-governmental relationships in the main body (Articles I through VII) of the U.S. Constitution. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3333. Constitutional Law: Individual Liberties.

This course examines the area of constitutional interpretation commonly known as civil liberties or the relations between the individual and the government. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3334. Civil Law in American Society.

This course examines the structure and functions of government, especially the judiciary, together with the laws regulating private social relations, (e.g., property law, tort law, etc.), and the relations between legal policies and societal goals and regulations. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3341. Comparative Politics.

This course introduces students to the subfield of comparative politics through an examination of recent political history, political institutions, party systems, and public policies of some of the world’s most important countries (including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia, China, Iran, India, South Africa, Mexico and others).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3342. African Politics.

This course examines the government and politics of African political systems in light of the traditional political cultures, the colonial and post-colonial experience and the diversity of regime experimentation with special attention to the struggle for genuine democracy. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3343. Government and Politics of Latin America.

This course is a comparative analysis of political systems in Latin America, examining the impact of socioculutural and economic factors on political attitudes and behaviors. Special emphasis will be placed on the political systems of Mexico, Cuba, and Brazil. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3344. Government and Politics of Europe.

This course examines the political history and political institutions of Europe and the European Union. Special emphasis will be placed on the political systems in the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, and Russia. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3345. Government and Politics of Russia.

This course examines the domestic and foreign policy of the former Soviet Union, examined both historically and analytically. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3346. Government and Politics of Asia.

This course examines political development in the nations of Far East and South Asia, special consideration will be placed on the political systems of China, Japan, and India. (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3347. Politics of Modern Southeast Asia.

This course examines the political and economic significance of Southeast Asia through comparative analysis; it will include an empirical and conceptual examination of the political dynamics of the region. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3348. Revolution and Nationalism.

This course examines the phenomena of modern revolution and nationalism focusing on different countries in various geographical areas such as the Middle East, Latin America, and others. This course is repeatable once with a different emphasis for an additional three credit hours. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3349. Latin America Party Politics: Theory and Practice.

This course examines some key insights in party and party system theory and practice. Latin America is the regional referent for examining themes, and country examples are studied in depth to illustrate the theory. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3351. Introduction to International Studies.

This course examines critical interdisciplinary questions pertaining to all courses in the International Studies Program. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3352. Theories of International Politics.

This course examines theories and concepts in the study of international relations. Major theoretical works and illustrative case studies will be critically analyzed. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3353. Issues in World Politics.

This course examines major issues in world politics, international relations, and comparative politics. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 3354. United States-Latin America Relations.

This course examines United States-Latin America relations as a subset of US global relations and US foreign policy. This course will examine policies, problems, and attitudes with a detailed analysis of U.S. relations with selected countries. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4310A. Natural Law and Virtue Ethics.

This course examines the development of natural law and virtue ethics theory from ancient through contemporary thought. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4310B. Topics on Freedom of Speech and Thought.

This course considers freedom of speech and thought as foundational conditions in liberal conceptions of human flourishing. The course will combine a close reading of modern and contemporary authors with an analysis of recent controversies implicating these freedoms, such as debates about hate speech and political correctness. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301.

3 Credit Hours. 0 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4311. Ancient and Medieval Political Thought (Greeks to 1600).

This course examines classical and medieval political theory from Plato to Machiavelli. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4312. Modern Political Theory (1600 - 1900).

This course examines the development of modern political ideas; and the meaning and relationships of the significant ideologies of our time including democracy, capitalism, the welfare state, socialism, fascism, and communism. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4313. The Holocaust.

This course is an undergraduate seminar on The Holocaust. Topics include: victims and perpetrators, antisemitism, and representation of The Holocaust in film and fiction. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4314. Liberalism and Its Critics.

This course examines the origins, nature, and evolution of one of the most influential intellectual traditions in modern Western political theory, liberal individualism, as well the views of its critics. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4315. The Politics of Dystopia.

This course examines the idea of political utopia and the many ways in which it might be twisted into a darker, less-than-perfect society. Content will focus, in particular, on the relationship between fictional dystopias in novels and films, and political reality in 21st-century America. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4320A. American Political Culture.

The course will explore selected problems related to American political culture through an examination of Alexis de Tocqueville’s classic study, Democracy in America. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4320B. The Evolution of the United States Constitution.

This course studies the relationship between politics and the US Constitution. Emphasis is placed on the evolution of the US Constitution from a political, historical, and theoretical perspective.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4321. American Foreign Policy.

This undergraduate seminar examines the roles of major institutions, American political culture, and the international setting in the making of American foreign policy. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4322. African American Politics.

This course examines the political, cultural, and historical facets of the African American experience. The course will include a study of appropriate constitutional law cases, representation, identity, urban politics, protest movements, and ideology. Particular attention will be given to how these themes develop in Texas and the Southwest. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4323. Latina/o Politics.

This course examines the participation of Latinos in US politics. Both formal political participation in electoral politics and involvement in grassroots and social movements are considered. While all Latino groups will be considered, the course has a special emphasis on the Mexican/Chicano experience in Texas and the Southwest. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4324. Women in Politics.

This course examines the role of women in political life. The course will examine women’s influence on politics as well as how various public policies affect women. Topics may include feminism, electoral politics, political representation, and the internal politics of women’s groups. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4325. Texas Politics.

This course examines the history, culture, institutions, issues, and policies of the Texas political system. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4326. Media and Public Opinion.

This course examines how the media influences public opinion and voting behavior. Specific topics include media functions in campaigns and elections, media bias, new media, and media effects on political attitudes and behaviors. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4327. Religion and American Public Life.

This course examines the ways in which religious beliefs and groups have influenced the course of American democratic experience, and the ongoing debate regarding the proper role of religion in American public life. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4330A. Environmental Law & Policy.

This course examines the institutions, implementation, and regulation of American environmental law and policy. Laws and regulations explored can cover jurisdictions ranging from municipal, regional, state, federal, and international levels. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4331. Islamic Law and Politics.

This undergraduate seminar is an examination of the origins, development, divisions, law, and politics of Islam. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4332. The Politics of U.S. Economic Policy.

This course examines the issues of political economy prominent in American public life. Emphasis will be placed on the constitutional, partisan, and sectional aspects of such issues as the Bank of the United States, slavery, gold standard, the Great Depression, banking, income distribution, and the Affordable Care Act. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4333. Issues in Law and Public Policy.

This course examines selected legal issues by focusing on their relationship to public policy. Alternative views, social consequences, political responses, and legal issues resulting from alternative positions are considered. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4334. Legal Theories and Research.

This course examines the American Legal System. Emphasis will be placed on the origins and development of law, the different sources of law, the process of legal research and analysis, and methods for interpreting and applying constitutional, statutory and case law. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4340A. Government and Politics of Japan.

This course is a comparative analyses of political systems in Japan, examining the impact of sociocultural and economic factors on political attitudes and behaviors. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4340B. Authoritarian Regimes.

While democracy became the most common political regime type around the world in the 1990s, many authoritarian regimes have continued to persist or have emerged in countries such as China, Cameroon, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Venezuela. How do these regimes emerge and function in the presence of popular demands for democratization and leadership challenges from authoritarian regime elites? How do authoritarian regimes collapse and what are the prospects for democracy in current authoritarian regimes? How do authoritarian regimes act in international relations? This course applies these broad questions to past and present authoritarian regimes around the world. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4340C. Comparative Political Institutions.

This course introduces students to the effect of institutions on political outcomes in developing countries. The role of formal institutions, informal institutions, and institutional weaknesses to understand political dynamics will be explored and analyzed.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4340D. Mexican Politics.

The course delves into Mexico's XX century authoritarian period and its transition to democracy, including the workings of Mexico's institutions in the post 2000 era, and the evolution of US-Mexican relations.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4340E. Civil War.

This course provides an in-depth look at how civil wars begin and end, the dynamics in the conduct of civil wars, and the domestic and international consequences of civil wars. Case studies of post-WWII civil wars around the world will be used to illustrate theories of civil war and to speculate on the likely onset or termination of civil war in particular countries.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4341. Civil-Military Relations in Comparative Politics.

This course examines the primary empirical and normative theories of civil-military relations. Students will investigate the state of civil-military relations in the United States and around the globe. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4342. Economic Development in Latin America.

This course examines the economic history of and current obstacles to economic development in Latin America. It explores the Import Substitution Industrialization Era, the debt crisis of the 1980s, free market economics, and the nature and revival of economic populism. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4343. Politics of Democratization in Developing Countries.

This course examines the third wave of democratization in the developing world and the multiple challenges facing these new democracies. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4344. The Politics of Extremism.

This undergraduate seminar examines international terrorism and extremist politics in America. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4345. Model International Institution Competition.

This course is an applied introduction to diplomacy focusing on issues relevant to international institutions, in which students will engage in debate and role-playing. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4346. Organization of American States.

This course is an introduction to major issues of the OAS including its functions and limitations and the evolving relations among member-states.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4350A. U.S. National Affairs and Homeland Security.

This course examines current issues of national and international importance from political, economic, and social perspectives. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4351. International Conflict and Security.

This course examines historical and spatial patterns of conflict (including war, terrorism, and economic coercion) from the perspectives of Realist, Idealist, and Marxian schools of thought. It will also examine strategies for conflict prevention and resolution such as deterrence, arms-control, collective security, and “building democracy.” (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4352. International Law.

This course will examine the nature, functions, sources, scope, practice, and development of public international law as both a legal and political process. Students will research contemporary international problems and participate in a Moot International Court of Justice. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4353. International Organizations.

This course examines the historical roots of international organizations, the development of the League of Nations, and the evolution of the United Nations. The nature, process, and function of contemporary international organizations will be analyzed. Non-governmental organizations, transnational organizations, and multi-national corporations will be assessed. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4354. Politics of International Economic Relations.

This course examines the institutional structure of interstate economic relations, trade and monetary regimes, foreign investment, foreign aid, and development policies of governments. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4355. US National Security Strategy.

This course examines the decision-making processes and the substantive debates pertaining to issues of modern American national security policy and strategy. Emphasis may be placed on the theory of strategy and grand strategy, great power challenges from Russia and China, transnational threats, and the tools of power such as the use of military, intelligence, economic, and diplomatic means to advance strategic goals. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4379. Independent Study.

This course is an individualized study including independent reading and/or research on various problem areas of political science. Instructor will approve specific problem area, bibliography, and student paper outline. Prerequisite: Instructor approval. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4380. Internship in Government.

This course is designed for students to gain practical experience while participating in the ongoing work of a selected governmental or nonprofit unit. Interns will work under the joint direction of faculty and intern supervisors. One hundred fifty hours of service during the semester is required of interns. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 0 Lecture Contact Hours. 15 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4398. Practicum in Political Science: Concepts, Resources, and Applications in the Study of Politics.

This course is designed to ensure familiarity with basic concepts and approaches used in the study of politics. This course is required of all B.A. students seeking a teaching certification; it may be taken as a substitute for PS 4399 for Political Science non teacher certification majors. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 3 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4399. Senior Seminar in Political Science.

This course includes intensive reading, research, writing, and discussion focusing on different sub-fields in political science and is required of all political science majors. May be repeated once for additional credit with different instructor and department approval. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PS 4680. Internship in Government.

This course is designed for students to gain practical experience while participating in the ongoing work of a selected governmental or nonprofit unit. Interns will work under the joint direction of faculty and intern supervisors. Three hundred hours of service during the semester is required of interns. (WI) (MULT) Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

6 Credit Hours. 0 Lecture Contact Hours. 20 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Courses in Public Administration (PA)

PA 3300. Introduction to Public and Nonprofit Administration.

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of public and nonprofit administration including the context, nature, and structure of public and nonprofit administration in America; management of public organizations; and challenges of the future.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3301. Political Institutions and Public Service.

This course examines the fundamental political institutions and values of American democracy. The role of public service as it relates to government and nonprofit administration is emphasized.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3310. Public Finance Administration.

This course introduces students to fiscal administration and budgeting at different levels of government and nonprofit organizations in the United States. The course includes a wide range of theoretical and applied aspects of fiscal policy and financial administration. Both expenditures and revenues are examined. Prerequisite: MATH 1312 or MATH 1315 or MATH 1316 or MATH 1317 or MATH 1319 or MATH 1329 or MATH 2321 or MATH 2417 or MATH 2471 or HON 2302A or HON 2302B any with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3311. Analytical Techniques.

This course introduces quantitative analytical methods and fundamental statistics ranging from descriptive to inferential procedures. Emphases will be placed on appropriate analytical techniques, use of software for data analysis, interpretation of results and crafting of professional reports based on data analysis. Prerequisite: MATH 1312 or MATH 1315 or MATH 1316 or MATH 1317 or MATH 1319 or MATH 1329 or MATH 2321 or MATH 2417 or MATH 2471 or HON 2302A or HON 2302B any with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3314. State and Local Government.

This course examines state and local government structure, organization, functions, powers and processes. The role of American and Texas state and local government institutions in the formulation and implementation of public policy will be covered. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3316. Metropolitan Politics.

This course examines the political institutions and processes of urban and suburban America. Key contemporary metropolitan policy issues are used to highlight underlying tensions in policy formation and implementation. This course emphasizes the unique problems of cities and major metropolitan areas. (WI) (MULT).

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3330. Public Personnel and Human Resource Administration.

This course introduces the laws, context, procedures, personnel structures, techniques, and challenges associated with managing personnel in government and nonprofit organizations. Emphases will be placed on strategic planning for human resources, position classification, selection, recruitment, compensation and benefits, training, performance appraisal, collective bargaining and other aspects of personnel management.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3340. Administrative Law.

This course examines the rule making, adjudication, and enforcement powers of federal and state agencies. The course also examines statutes that confer authority on such agencies and challenges to their constitutionality, as well as the principles that the courts employ to scrutinize agency actions.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3350. Public Policy Process.

This course examines the theories, processes and practices of public policy formulation, implementation and evaluation. Emphasis may vary and include but not be limited to environment and sustainability issues, energy, social and economic policies.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 3 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 3351. Urban Management and Regional Policy.

This course provides a critical introduction to the key aspects of regional and urban management and policy. Students will study how urban administration practices and regional policies influence the form and function of American cities. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 4340. Issues in Law and Public Policy.

This course examines contemporary legal issues and their relationship to public policy. Emphasis may include environmental protection, sustainability, climate change, voting rights, capital punishment, gun rights, and electronic challenges to privacy rights from the perspective of bureaucratic functions and non-profits. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 4352. Comparative Public Administration.

This course surveys the field of Public Administration emphasizing aspects of administration and public policy systems in the US and compares them with administration and public policy systems of other countries. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 4362. Government, Nonprofit and American Business.

This course examines the role of American business in public policy. It examines how the public, private and nonprofit sectors interact in the policy process. This includes ways in which policy and politics shape business and nonprofit culture and how businesses and nonprofits influence policy implementation through contracting. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 4370. Ethics in American Government.

This course examines key ethical and cultural challenges in public service, including service in government and in nonprofit and voluntary organizations. Content includes but is not limited to ethical theory and analysis, and examination of ethical issues in areas such as healthcare, privacy, accountability, education, research, planning, elections, and policy. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 4389. Internship in Public Administration.

This course provides students with meaningful work in public administration as interns in public or nonprofit organizations. Under faculty supervision, students complete 150 hours of service and conclude their internship by completing a report on their work experience. (MULT) Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 0 Lecture Contact Hours. 15 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Multicultural Content|Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

PA 4398. Research in Public Administration.

This course will examine basic concepts and approaches used in the study of public administration. Emphasis will be placed on identifying, locating, and employing resources to assist in understanding public administration at all governmental levels. Prerequisites: Instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Writing Intensive
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Abshire, Roger Paul, Senior Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Houston

Arnold, Charles B, Senior Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Texas State University

Bagnulo, Ashleen, Associate Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Notre Dame

Bagnulo, Vince A, Senior Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Notre Dame

Balanoff, Howard R, Professor, Political Science, D.Ed., Texas A&M University

Brown, Christopher Ralph, Associate Professor, Political Science, J.D., University of Texas at Austin

Castillo, Cecilia R, Assistant Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Dallas

Cedillo, Emily Clare, Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Texas State University

Crossett, Gregory Lynn, Associate Professor, Political Science, J.D., Texas Tech University

DeHart, Paul R, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin

DeSoto, William H, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Univ of Wisconsin-Madison

Doyle, Thomas Earl, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Univ of California-Irvine

Evans, Michelle L, Associate Professor, Political Science, J.D., St. Mary's University

Faber, Michael Joseph, Associate Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Indiana University Bloomington

Falconnier, Jamie Lee, Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Texas State University

Fanguy-White, Amy Marie, Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Texas State University

Farrar, Blake Ross, Senior Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Texas State University

Fields, Willard M, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of New Orleans

Garza, Ana M, Assistant Professor, Political Science, J.D., Southern Methodist University

Garza, Elena Marie, Lecturer, Political Science, B.A., Texas State University

Gazda, Peter Francis, Lecturer, Political Science, J.D., St. Mary's University

Grasso, Kenneth L, Chair - Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Fordham University

Hanks, Emily Kay, Associate Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin

Johnson, Susan Joyce, Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Jackson State University

Kitch, John William, Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Louisiana State Univ A&M College

Kroeger, Alex Michael, Assistant Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Univ of Nebraska - Lincoln

Leder, Arnold, Associate Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Indiana University Bloomington

Levy, David Adrian, Lecturer, Political Science, L.L.M., Georgetown University

Longoria, Thomas, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Texas A&M University

Loseke, Ezekiel Thomas, Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Hillsdale College

Lowman, Helen Ann, Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Antioch University

Martin, Walter Clark, Lecturer, Political Science, J.D., South Texas College of Law

McMahan, Thomas Vance, Professor of Practice, Political Science, J.D., University of Texas at Austin

Mihalkanin, Edward, Associate Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., American University

Mora, Sherri L, Associate Professor of Practice, Political Science, Ph.D., Texas State University

Moravits, William Phillip Clark, Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Walden University

Newell, Franziska B, Assistant Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Syracuse University

Popescu, Ionut Catalin, Associate Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Duke University

Rahm, Dianne, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Syracuse University

Rangarajan, Nandhini, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University at Albany, SUNY

Rodriguez, Jonathan J, Lecturer, Political Science, BSCJ, Texas State University

Rowlands, Lauren Marie, Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Temple University

Sanchez-Sibony, Omar, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Oxford

Shields, Patricia M, Regents' Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., The Ohio State Univ Main Campus

Sternthal, Susanne, Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Columbia Univ City of New York

Tajalli, Hassan, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin

Villarreal, Jordan Alberto, Lecturer, Political Science, M.A., Texas State University

Vindis, Miha, Professor of Practice, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin

Ward, Kenneth, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., Columbia Univ City of New York

Wheatland, Casey Joseph, Senior Lecturer, Political Science, Ph.D., Hillsdale College

Wright, Walter A, Professor, Political Science, L.L.M., New York University

Yun, Hyun J, Professor, Political Science, Ph.D., University of Florida