Department of Political Science

POSI 2310. Principles of American Government.

This course introduces principles of political science and examines the structure and operation of American and Texas government. Topics include the historical development of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions, federalism, separation of powers, and the legislative, executive, and judicial branches at both the federal and state levels. The course also explores political behavior, public opinion, elections, political parties, and interest groups in national and state contexts.

POSI 2320. Functions of American Government.

This course examines the functions of American and Texas government, with emphasis on constitutional foundations, civil liberties, civil rights, foreign policy, and the policymaking process. Students analyze how national and state institutions shape public policy in areas such as economics, environmental regulation, education, and social welfare. The course also examines budgeting processes at the federal and state levels. Students apply political science concepts to evaluate policy debates, institutional decisions, and their effects on civic life in the United States and Texas.

PS 2304. Introduction to Political Science.

This course introduces students to political science by examining its historical development, disciplinary scope, and research methods. It analyzes major approaches used to study political systems, institutions, and political behavior. The course evaluates how theoretical frameworks and empirical methods inform scholarly inquiry across political science. Key subfields such as comparative politics, international relations, and political theory are examined through systematic inquiry. Emphasis is placed on identifying foundational concepts and assessing methodological tools used to investigate political phenomena in diverse contexts. Prerequisite: POSI 2310 or POSI 2320 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3300. Basic Political Ideas.

This course analyzes foundational ideas and debates in Western political thought, focusing on prominent traditions including democracy, liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and totalitarianism. It examines how these ideas developed historically and how they have been articulated in key theoretical texts. Using comparative and historical approaches, the course evaluates the role of political ideas in shaping political institutions and public discourse. Emphasis is placed on analytical reasoning, conceptual clarity, and systematic comparison, enabling students to assess political theories and their relevance across differing political and historical contexts. This course (or PS 3301) serves as a co-requisite for other advanced courses in Political Science.

PS 3301. Basic Political Institutions.

This course examines political institutions and introduces students to foundational research practices in political science. It analyzes institutional structures such as legislatures, executives, and electoral systems using comparative and analytical methods. The course applies research techniques including bibliographic research, data collection, and comparative analysis to the study of political systems. Emphasis is placed on evaluating similarities and differences across institutional arrangements and interpreting their functions within political processes. Students develop analytical skills for examining institutional design and assessing how political structures influence governance across contexts.

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

This course surveys the historical evolution of American political ideas from the colonial period to the Civil War. It examines primary texts and competing perspectives on liberty, authority, representation, and constitutional design. The course employs historical and analytical methods to evaluate how political thought developed in response to social, economic, and institutional change. By engaging in close reading and structured analysis, students assess arguments within their historical context and identify key themes and continuities in early American political theory. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

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

This course examines the development of American political thought from the Reconstruction era to the present. It analyzes primary texts and major debates concerning democracy, federalism, constitutional interpretation, and civil rights. The course situates political ideas within their historical, social, and institutional contexts to evaluate how modern systems of governance have evolved over time. Through close reading, contextual analysis, and structured discussion, students assess arguments advanced by key thinkers and movements and trace the intellectual foundations of contemporary American political theory. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3313. Contemporary Political Theory.

This course examines selected theories and movements in contemporary political thought through analysis of their origins, assumptions, and conceptual structures. It evaluates how political theorists address questions of authority, liberty, equality, and governance within recent historical and intellectual contexts. Using comparative analysis and close engagement with theoretical texts, the course analyzes competing frameworks and the methodological approaches used to interpret political ideas. Emphasis is placed on evaluating theoretical arguments and understanding their analytical implications within political theory scholarship. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3314. Politics and Personality.

This course examines how personality and motivational factors are analyzed in the study of political behavior within contemporary political systems. It analyzes concepts from political psychology, including personality structure, political orientation, and leadership traits, using established theoretical and empirical approaches. The course evaluates primary and secondary sources and reviews methodological techniques used to study individual‑level political behavior. Emphasis is placed on comparative analysis and interpretation of empirical findings. Students develop the ability to analyze political behavior by applying theoretical frameworks and research evidence to observed patterns of political participation and decision‑making. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3315. Quantitative Research in Political Science.

This course examines statistical theories and quantitative methods employed in political science research. It analyzes methodological concepts and statistical procedures used in hypothesis testing. Topics include parametric and non-parametric techniques, quantitative applications, and data interpretations in political analyses. Using lectures and applied analytical exercises, the course evaluates how statistical tools are used to analyze political datasets and assess research findings. The course focuses on evaluating methodological applications and interpreting quantitative evidence within contemporary political science scholarship. 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.

PS 3321. Campaigns and Elections.

This course examines American elections and campaigns and evaluates competing interpretations of electoral procedures and outcomes. The course discusses the formal electoral process, complex rules and regulations, traditional and contemporary campaign strategies, evolving advertising and debates, voters’ attitudes and behaviors, and the roles of political parties, interest groups, and media in American campaigns and elections. The course uses lectures, student-led discussions and presentations, and various exercises utilizing the past, current, and future campaigns and elections. Through multi-dimensional and multi-perspective approaches, students apply political science frameworks to understand campaign practices and electoral outcomes. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3322. Political Parties and Party Politics.

This course examines the American political party system, focusing on its historical development, organizational structure, and role in elections and governance. It analyzes topics such as suffrage, candidate nomination, campaign organization, and the interaction of political parties with public opinion and interest groups. Using historical and empirical methods, the course evaluates how parties shape electoral competition and patterns of political representation. Through analysis of data, case studies, and scholarly literature, students develop skills in assessing arguments and interpreting evidence related to party competition in the American political system.

PS 3323. Congress and the Legislative Process.

This course examines the institutional structures and processes that shape lawmaking in the United States. It analyzes the organization of Congress, party leadership, committee systems, and procedural rules to evaluate their influence on legislative outcomes. The course incorporates comparative analysis by examining selected state legislatures, including Texas, to identify similarities and differences in institutional design. Using historical and contemporary case studies, students apply evidence‑based methods to analyze legislative behavior, agenda‑setting, and policy development within institutional contexts. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3324. The American Presidency.

This course examines the U.S. presidency as a constitutional and political institution. It analyzes the formal powers, informal roles, and historical development of executive authority within the American political system. Using case studies, historical evidence, and institutional analysis, the course evaluates presidential behavior and leadership across administrations. Attention is given to interactions between the presidency and Congress, the judiciary, political parties, and the public, with emphasis on constitutional and political constraints. Students develop skills in analyzing executive power and institutional relationships using established political science frameworks.

PS 3325. State and Local Government.

This course examines the organization, functions, and powers of state, county, and municipal governments in the United States. It analyzes constitutional foundations, legal authority, and administrative structures that shape subnational governance, with selected attention to governmental patterns in Texas. Using comparative and institutional approaches, the course evaluates variations in policymaking, fiscal systems, and intergovernmental relations. Through analysis of legal frameworks, case studies, and empirical examples, students develop skills in evaluating how institutional design influences governmental operations and policy implementation within federal systems. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3326. Interest Groups and Political Influence in the United States.

This course examines selected public policy issues at the state and national levels with a focus on the role of interest groups in governmental decision making. The course analyzes how organized groups seek to influence policy through legislative, administrative, and electoral processes. Using case studies and peer‑reviewed research, students evaluate patterns of political participation and group influence across levels of government. Emphasis is placed on analyzing institutional access points, competing interests, and policy outcomes within established political and legal frameworks. The course develops analytical skills relevant to the systematic study of political behavior and public policymaking. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3327. The American Founding.

This course examines the origins and development of the American constitutional system through analysis of its intellectual, political, and institutional foundations. The course analyzes the Federalist and Anti Federalist debates, the drafting of the Constitution, and theories of constitutional design. Using primary historical documents and scholarly research, students evaluate competing perspectives on representation, federalism, and governmental authority. Emphasis is placed on analyzing how these debates informed the structure of American political institutions and assessing their relevance to subsequent constitutional interpretation. The course develops historical and analytical skills central to the study of American political development. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3328. Politics in Film.

This course examines films that engage with political issues through narrative, character, and visual form. Students analyze cinematic treatments of topics such as questions of justice, tensions between public responsibility and private conscience, and war and ethics. The course emphasizes close film analysis and contextual interpretation, drawing on basic concepts from political theory, media studies, and film criticism. Through comparative viewing and discussion, students evaluate how films construct political meaning and communicate arguments about power, responsibility, and collective life.

PS 3331. The Supreme Court and the Judicial Process.

This course examines the judiciary as a central institution in American governance. Students analyze the processes of judicial selection, the factors influencing judicial decision-making, and the institutional role of courts within the broader political system. Emphasis is placed on evaluating how legal reasoning, political context, and institutional constraints shape judicial behavior. Through case studies and scholarly research, the course encourages critical inquiry into the relationship between law and politics without prescribing normative conclusions. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3332. Constitutional Law: Basic Structures and Principles.

This course examines the constitutional foundations of U.S. governance through a case study approach. Students analyze the structure and powers of the President, Congress, and their interrelationships as outlined in Articles I through VII of the Constitution. Emphasis is placed on evaluating institutional design, separation of powers, and federal dynamics. By engaging with landmark cases and scholarly interpretations, students develop analytical skills for understanding how constitutional principles shape governmental authority and political processes. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3333. Constitutional Law: Individual Liberties.

This course examines constitutional interpretation in the context of civil liberties, focusing on the relationship between individuals and government authority. Students analyze key constitutional provisions and judicial decisions that define rights and freedoms under U.S. law. Using a case study approach, the course evaluates interpretive methods employed by courts and explores how these principles shape legal and political outcomes. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills for understanding constitutional reasoning and its implications for governance. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3334. Civil Law in American Society.

This course examines the structure and functions of government with particular attention to the judiciary. Students analyze laws regulating private social relations, including property and tort law, and evaluate how these legal frameworks interact with policy objectives and regulatory systems. Using case studies and scholarly analysis, the course emphasizes interpretation of constitutional principles and statutory provisions. Students develop analytical skills for understanding institutional design and the relationship between legal rules and governance. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3341. Comparative Politics.

This course introduces students to the subfield of comparative politics by examining political systems across a range of countries. It analyzes recent political history, institutional arrangements, party systems, and public policy outcomes through systematic comparison. Students evaluate how different political structures shape governance, representation, and decision-making in diverse national contexts, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia, China, Iran, India, South Africa, and Mexico. The course emphasizes comparative methods used in political science to identify similarities and differences across cases. By applying theoretical frameworks and empirical analysis, students develop the ability to assess political variation and continuity across states.

PS 3342. African Politics.

This course examines the governments and politics of African political systems through comparative analysis. It analyzes political institutions, party systems, and governance structures in the context of precolonial political traditions, colonial rule, and post‑independence state development. Using selected country cases, the course evaluates patterns of regime formation, institutional change, and policy outcomes across the continent. Students examine variation in democratic and non‑democratic political systems and assess how historical and structural factors shape political processes. Emphasis is placed on analytical reasoning, use of evidence, and comparative political frameworks. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3343. Government and Politics of Latin America.

This course examines political systems in Latin America through comparative analysis of institutions, political behavior, and policy outcomes. It analyzes how sociocultural and economic factors influence political attitudes, participation, and governance across countries. Using case studies with particular attention to Mexico, Cuba, and Brazil, students evaluate variation in regime types, state structures, and political processes. The course applies comparative political science methodologies and analytical frameworks to assess similarities and differences across national contexts. Students develop skills in evidence‑based analysis and comparative reasoning relevant to the study of regional politics. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3344. Government and Politics of Europe.

This course examines the political history and political institutions of Europe and the European Union through comparative analysis. It analyzes constitutional arrangements, government structures, party systems, and policy‑making processes across European states. Using selected country case studies, including the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, and Russia, students evaluate similarities and differences in political systems and institutional development. The course emphasizes comparative political science methods, historical context, and evidence‑based analysis. Students develop analytical skills to assess how institutional arrangements shape governance and political outcomes across European contexts. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3345. Government and Politics of Russia.

This course examines the domestic and foreign policy of the former Soviet Union through historical and analytical approaches. It analyzes political institutions, leadership structures, ideological frameworks, and policy decision‑making processes from the establishment of the Soviet state through its dissolution. Using primary and secondary sources, students evaluate how internal political dynamics and external strategic considerations shaped Soviet domestic governance and international behavior. The course emphasizes historical context, comparative analysis, and evidence‑based reasoning to assess continuity and change in Soviet policy over time.Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3346. Government and Politics of Asia.

This course examines political development in East Asia and South Asia using comparative political analysis. It analyzes the evolution of political institutions, governance structures, and state–society relations across the region. Through case studies with particular attention to China, Japan, and India, students evaluate patterns of institutional development, regime formation, and policy outcomes. The course emphasizes historical context, comparative methodology, and evidence‑based analysis. Students develop analytical skills to assess similarities and differences in political systems and to explain variation in political development across Asian contexts. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3347. Politics of Modern Southeast Asia.

This course examines the political, economic, and cultural significance of Southeast Asia with comparative perspectives. It analyzes political institutions, governance structures, economic contexts, and cultural traditions to explain regional political dynamics. Through empirical and conceptual approaches, students evaluate how domestic and regional factors shape political outcomes across Southeast Asian countries. The course emphasizes comparative approaches, utilizing scholarly evidence and analytical reasoning. Students develop the ability to assess similarities and differences among political systems and to explain variations in political and economic processes within the region. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3348. Revolution and Nationalism.

This course examines modern revolution and nationalism as political phenomena through comparative case studies drawn from multiple world regions, including the Middle East and Latin America. Students analyze historical contexts, ideological foundations, and institutional outcomes associated with revolutionary movements and nationalist projects. The course employs comparative analysis and selected primary and secondary sources to evaluate similarities and differences across cases. Emphasis is placed on understanding how revolutions and nationalist movements emerge, evolve, and interact with political structures. Students develop analytical skills through case comparison, discussion, and written analysis.Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

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

This course examines central theories of political parties and party systems using Latin America as a primary regional focus. Students analyze how theoretical models are applied to real‑world political systems through in‑depth country case studies. The course employs comparative analysis and scholarly literature to explore party organization, electoral competition, and institutional development. Emphasis is placed on evaluating how party systems function across different political contexts. Students develop analytical and interpretive skills by connecting theoretical frameworks to empirical evidence drawn from selected Latin American cases. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3351. Introduction to International Studies.

This course examines interdisciplinary questions that structure the field of international studies. Students analyze conceptual frameworks, theoretical approaches, and methodological tools used across the social sciences and humanities to study global affairs. The course evaluates how political, economic, historical, and cultural perspectives contribute to explanations of international phenomena. Through comparative readings, case studies, and structured discussion, students develop the ability to assess evidence, interpret scholarly arguments, and identify connections among subfields within international studies. Emphasis is placed on analytical reasoning, academic writing, and the integration of multiple disciplinary approaches.

PS 3352. Theories of International Politics.

This course examines major theories and core concepts in the study of international relations. Students analyze classical and contemporary theoretical perspectives, including their assumptions, analytical frameworks, and areas of application. Through systematic examination of foundational texts and selected case studies, the course evaluates how different theories explain patterns of conflict, cooperation, and governance in global politics. Emphasis is placed on comparative analysis, structured discussion, and evidence‑based reasoning. Students develop skills in interpreting scholarly arguments, assessing theoretical strengths and limitations, and applying conceptual models to real‑world international phenomena.

PS 3353. Issues in World Politics.

This course examines major issues in world politics through the analytical perspectives of international relations and comparative politics. Students analyze political institutions, state behavior, and international systems using established theoretical frameworks and comparative methods. The course evaluates contemporary global challenges through structured case studies and scholarly readings. Emphasis is placed on evidence‑based analysis, comparative reasoning, and the interpretation of political data and academic research. By the end of the course, students develop the ability to assess competing explanations of political outcomes in different international and national contexts.

PS 3354. United States-Latin America Relations.

This course analyzes United States–Latin America relations as part of the study of U.S. global engagement and foreign policy. Students examine historical developments, policy decisions, and diplomatic interactions that have influenced relations with selected Latin American states. Using comparative methods and case‑based analysis, the course evaluates how political, economic, and regional factors shape bilateral and multilateral outcomes. Instruction emphasizes analytical reading of scholarly sources, interpretation of policy evidence, and systematic comparison across country cases. Students develop skills in evaluating foreign policy strategies and their consequences. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 3355. Global Frameworks for Human Rights: Legal and Political Perspectives.

This course explores the development and enforcement of international human rights norms through the actions of states, international organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and international courts. The course examines key issues such as genocide, torture, and refugee protection and analyzes debates concerning universalism and cultural relativism. Using primary sources and scholarly research, students evaluate theoretical models that explain changes in human rights practices. Emphasis is placed on comparative inquiry and evidence-based analysis of institutional roles and global governance mechanisms.

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

This course examines the development of political theory from ancient Greece through the late medieval period. It analyzes the writings of thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Aquinas, and Machiavelli to evaluate how political ideas concerning justice, sovereignty, and reason were articulated within their historical contexts. Using close reading of primary texts and consideration of intellectual and social settings, the course investigates the foundations of Western political thought. Emphasis is placed on analyzing conceptual arguments and assessing their influence on subsequent theoretical traditions. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

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

This course analyzes the formation and interaction of major political ideologies from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century. Topics include democracy, capitalism, socialism, fascism, communism, and the welfare state. The course evaluates the philosophical arguments underlying these traditions and examines their historical development and influence on political systems. Through textual analysis and comparative inquiry, students analyze how modern political ideas evolved and how they continue to inform theoretical debates. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4313. The Holocaust.

This course examines the Holocaust through historical, cultural, and interpretive approaches. It analyzes the social and political conditions associated with the emergence of genocidal policies, as well as the relationships among perpetrators, victims, and bystanders. Using primary historical documents, survivor testimony, and selected cultural representations, the course evaluates how the Holocaust has been documented and interpreted. Emphasis is placed on source analysis, narrative framing, and methodological challenges in the study of mass violence. Students develop analytical skills for assessing evidence and interpreting complex historical phenomena. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4314. Liberalism and Its Critics.

This course examines liberalism as a major tradition in modern Western political theory and analyzes the principal critiques developed in response to it. Students study foundational texts and key critical works to investigate concepts such as liberty, equality, individual rights, and state authority. Through close reading, comparative analysis, and discussion, the course emphasizes identifying arguments, situating ideas in historical context, and evaluating theoretical disagreements. Students develop the ability to analyze competing interpretations of liberal political thought and explain their significance within the broader development of modern political theory. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4315. The Politics of Dystopia.

This course examines political utopian and dystopian ideas as they appear in literary and cinematic narratives. Students analyze how fictional societies are constructed and how political concepts such as authority, freedom, and social organization are represented within these texts. Using close reading and comparative analysis, the course evaluates connections between dystopian narratives and political debates in 21st century America. Emphasis is placed on interpretive methods drawn from political theory, literature, and film studies. Students develop skills in analytical reasoning by evaluating how fictional works engage with contemporary political questions. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4320A. American Political Culture.

This course examines major themes, cultural patterns, and belief systems that shape American political culture. A central component of the course involves analysis of Alexis de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America to evaluate its arguments and continuing relevance. Students analyze how ideas about liberty, equality, individualism, community, religion, and democracy influence political institutions and public life. Drawing on multiple perspectives, the course explores enduring tensions in American political development. Students apply political science concepts to assess how cultural ideas inform political behavior, conflict, and policy debates. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4320C. Historical Perspectives on Freedom in America.

This course explores the historical development and contested meanings of freedom in American society. The course examines how political theorists, lawmakers, and social movements have defined and debated liberty across different historical periods. Using foundational texts, constitutional documents, and scholarly commentary, students analyze tensions between individual rights and communal responsibilities and assess how conceptions of freedom have influenced American political culture. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 with any grade of "D" or better.

PS 4321. American Foreign Policy.

This course examines American foreign policy through analysis of the interaction among domestic political institutions, political culture, and international conditions. The course analyzes major foreign policy decisions using comparative case studies, historical analysis, and scholarly literature. Students evaluate how institutional constraints, public opinion, and global dynamics shape policy choices across different time periods. Emphasis is placed on applying analytical frameworks to assess continuity and change in foreign policy behavior using systematic, evidence‑based methods. The course develops analytical skills relevant to the study of international relations and public policy. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4322. African American Politics.

This course examines the political, cultural, and historical dimensions of African American participation in United States politics. The course analyzes constitutional law cases, patterns of political representation, political ideology, and urban governance using historical and institutional frameworks. Protest movements and political identity are evaluated as subjects of scholarly inquiry within broader processes of political development. Using case studies and historical comparison, the course assesses how these dynamics have evolved at the national and regional levels, with particular attention to Texas and the Southwest. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills for interpreting political behavior within established political institutions. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 any with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4323. Latina/o Politics.

This course examines political participation among Latino populations in the United States through systematic analysis of electoral behavior, organizational activity, and institutional engagement. The course analyzes voting patterns, political mobilization, representation, and policy involvement using political science concepts and empirical research. Formal and informal modes of participation, including activity within community based organizations and social movements, are examined as objects of scholarly inquiry. Using historical comparison and regional case studies, the course evaluates variation in political behavior, with particular attention to Mexican and Chicano experiences in Texas and the U.S. Southwest. The course develops analytical skills for interpreting political participation. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4324. Women in Politics.

This course examines the role of women in political life across different political systems and contexts. It analyzes women’s participation in electoral politics, political representation, and policymaking, as well as the ways public policies affect women as political actors and constituents. The course also evaluates major theoretical approaches, including feminism, as analytical frameworks used to study gender and politics. Using case studies and comparative examples, students assess empirical research on women’s political behavior, institutions, and organizations, including the internal dynamics of women’s political groups.

PS 4325. Texas Politics.

This course examines the history, culture, institutions, and policies of the Texas political system. It analyzes the development of political institutions, constitutional structures, and policymaking processes within the state. Using historical documents, empirical data, and scholarly research, the course evaluates political actors, elections, and public policy debates in Texas. Students engage in comparative and analytical approaches to assess how political institutions operate and how political outcomes are shaped at the state level. The course emphasizes evidence‑based analysis and critical evaluation of political processes and governance in Texas. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4326. Media and Public Opinion.

This course examines how media influence public opinion, political institutions, public policy, and democratic processes in American politics. Topics include media functions in campaigns and elections, media bias, new media, media effects on political attitudes and behavior, and relationships between media and political institutions, including the presidency, the bureaucracy, Congress, and the judiciary. Using lectures, discussions, presentations, and exercises based on current media research, the course analyzes multiple theoretical perspectives and empirical findings related to media practices in contemporary American politics. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4327. Religion and American Public Life.

This course examines the relationship between religion and American public life through historical, institutional, and political analysis. It analyzes how religious beliefs, organizations, and movements have interacted with democratic institutions and political processes over time. The course evaluates major political and cultural debates concerning religion’s role in civic and governmental contexts. Using historical sources and scholarly research, students assess how religion has shaped public policy and political discourse in the United States. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4330B. Free Speech and Democracy in the Digital Age.

This course examines the role of free expression in the digital age through an interdisciplinary lens combining law, history, philosophy, and political science. Students analyze theories supporting freedom of expression and trace its development from English common law to contemporary constitutional interpretation. The course evaluates legal and regulatory limits on speech and explores challenges posed by digital platforms and private governance of online spaces. Global perspectives on freedom of expression are considered, emphasizing critical analysis of judicial decisions and policy frameworks. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 or POSI 3300 or POSI 3301 all with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4330C. Leadership in Government.

This course explores leadership in government through theoretical inquiry and applied analysis. Students examine major leadership frameworks, assess empirical studies, and analyze case examples from public organizations and political systems. The course emphasizes analytical methods used to evaluate leadership effectiveness, institutional context, and governance outcomes. Students learn to interpret scholarly research, apply comparative analysis, and evaluate competing explanations for leadership behavior in public settings. The course develops skills in critical assessment grounded in established disciplinary approaches. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PS 4331. Islamic Law and Politics.

This course examines the origins, historical development, internal divisions, legal traditions, and political dimensions of Islam. Students analyze key texts, institutions, and historical contexts to understand how Islamic beliefs and practices have shaped legal systems and political authority over time. The course employs historical and comparative methods to evaluate the interaction between religious ideas, law, and governance in diverse Islamic societies. Students develop analytical skills through close reading, case studies, and scholarly interpretation of primary and secondary sources. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

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

This course examines major issues in American political economy through historical and institutional analysis. Students analyze how constitutional structures, partisan competition, and sectional interests have shaped debates over economic policy from the early republic to the present. Topics include the Bank of the United States, slavery, the gold standard, the Great Depression, financial regulation, income distribution, and the Affordable Care Act. The course employs historical case studies and political analysis to evaluate how economic policies emerge, evolve, and are contested within the U.S. political system. Emphasis is placed on evidence‑based reasoning and comparative interpretation. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4333. Issues in Law and Public Policy.

This course examines selected legal issues through analysis of their relationship to public policy development and implementation. Students analyze competing legal interpretations, policy rationales, and institutional responses using case studies and statutory materials. The course evaluates how legal frameworks interact with political processes and administrative decision‑making. Emphasis is placed on examining alternative policy approaches, assessing their legal implications, and analyzing documented social and political outcomes. Students develop analytical skills through structured comparison, evidence‑based reasoning, and interpretation of legal and policy sources. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4334. Legal Theories and Research.

This course examines the American legal system with an emphasis on its structure, sources, and development. It analyzes the historical origins of law and the evolution of constitutional, statutory, and case law. The course introduces methods of legal research and legal reasoning, including techniques for interpreting judicial opinions and legislative texts. Through analysis of legal materials and scholarly sources, students evaluate how legal rules are formulated, applied, and interpreted within the American legal framework. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

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.

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.

PS 4342. Economic Development in Latin America.

This course examines the historical and contemporary economic factors shaping development outcomes in Latin America. It analyzes major policy frameworks and economic episodes, including the Import Substitution Industrialization era, the debt crisis of the 1980s, market‑oriented reforms, and the emergence and reemergence of economic populism. Using comparative and historical methods, the course evaluates how domestic institutions, international conditions, and policy choices have influenced economic growth, structural change, and development strategies across the region. Students will engage with empirical evidence and scholarly debates to assess competing interpretations of development experiences in Latin America. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4343. Politics of Democratization in Developing Countries.

This course examines the third wave of democratization in developing countries using comparative political analysis. It analyzes the political, institutional, and socioeconomic factors influencing democratic transitions and consolidation across diverse regional contexts. The course evaluates key challenges faced by newly established democracies, including governance capacity, political participation, institutional design, and external pressures. Through engagement with theoretical frameworks and country‑level case studies, students assess patterns of democratic development and variation in political outcomes. Emphasis is placed on comparative methods and empirical evidence to support systematic analysis of democratization processes. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4344. The Politics of Extremism.

This course examines international terrorism and extremist political movements in the United States using analytical frameworks from political science and security studies. It analyzes the ideological foundations, organizational structures, and political strategies associated with extremist activity, as well as the domestic and international contexts in which such movements operate. Through engagement with scholarly literature, policy analysis, and selected case studies, students evaluate competing explanations of political extremism and terrorism. The course emphasizes critical analysis of empirical evidence and comparative perspectives to assess how extremist politics interact with democratic institutions and political processes. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4345. Model International Institution Competition.

This course examines the practice of diplomacy in the context of international institutions through applied learning methods. It analyzes how states and other actors engage in negotiation, coalition‑building, and decision‑making within institutional frameworks. The course employs structured debates, simulations, and role‑playing exercises to evaluate diplomatic strategies and institutional constraints. Students assess case‑based scenarios using analytical tools from international relations and political science. The course emphasizes critical evaluation of process and outcomes rather than advocacy, supporting systematic understanding of diplomatic behavior in institutional settings.

PS 4346. Organization of American States.

This course examines the Organization of American States (OAS) as a regional international institution in the Western Hemisphere. It analyzes the organization’s historical development, institutional structure, and formal functions, as well as its operating constraints. The course evaluates evolving political relationships among member states and the decision‑making processes that shape OAS activities. Using institutional analysis, primary documents, and selected case studies, students assess how rules, norms, and political interests influence the organization’s role in regional cooperation and governance.

PS 4347. Politics and Government in Mexico.

This course examines Mexico’s political development during the twentieth century, with emphasis on the PRI-dominant era (1929–2000) and subsequent processes of political change. The course analyzes the structure and operation of Mexico’s political institutions after 2000, including electoral systems, major parties, and executive leadership across six administrations. Additional topics include political culture, governance patterns, and U.S.–Mexico relations, explored through case studies on trade agreements and security cooperation. Emphasis is placed on historical context and institutional analysis.

PS 4348. Authoritarian Regimes.

This course examines the politics of authoritarian regimes around the world. The course analyzes the emergence and evolution of non-democratic systems, the institutional and strategic mechanisms leaders use to consolidate and maintain power, and the domestic and international factors shaping regime stability and collapse. Topics include elite politics, party structures, media control, civil society, and the role of external actors in sustaining or undermining authoritarian rule. Through comparative analysis and engagement with scholarly literature, students evaluate competing explanations for authoritarian resilience and change.

PS 4349. Civil War.

This course explores the origins, dynamics, and outcomes of civil wars through a comparative and evidence-based lens. Students will examine how civil wars begin and end, the strategies and conduct of armed actors, and the domestic and international consequences of these conflicts. Topics include causes of onset, patterns of violence, peace processes, and the role of external interventions. Through engagement with scholarly literature and case studies, students will analyze competing explanations for civil war dynamics and assess their implications for political stability and international security.

PS 4351. International Conflict and Security.

This course examines historical and spatial patterns of international conflict, including war, terrorism, and economic coercion. Students analyze these phenomena through major theoretical perspectives in international relations, including realist, idealist, and neoliberal institutionalist approaches. The course evaluates how different schools of thought explain the causes, dynamics, and outcomes of conflict. Through comparative case studies and analysis of scholarly literature, students assess strategies associated with conflict management, such as deterrence, arms control, collective security, and political stabilization frameworks. Emphasis is placed on theory guided analysis, evidence based reasoning, and the systematic comparison of analytical perspectives.

PS 4352. International Law.

This course examines the nature, functions, sources, and development of public international law as it operates within legal and political contexts. Students analyze treaties, customary international law, judicial decisions, and the roles of international institutions through structured readings and case analysis. The course evaluates how international law is applied to contemporary global issues and legal disputes. Through legal research and participation in a simulated International Court of Justice exercise, students develop skills in legal reasoning, interpretation of primary sources, and evidence‑based argumentation. Emphasis is placed on analytical writing and disciplined evaluation of legal claims.

PS 4353. International Organizations.

This course examines the historical development and institutional foundations of international organizations. Students analyze the origins and functions of the League of Nations and the United Nations and evaluate their roles in international governance. The course examines contemporary international organizations, including intergovernmental, non‑governmental, transnational, and multinational institutions, through scholarly readings and comparative case studies. Emphasis is placed on analyzing organizational structures, decision‑making processes, and functional roles. Students develop the ability to assess theoretical and empirical explanations of how international organizations shape political, economic, and social interactions. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4354. Politics of International Economic Relations.

This course examines the institutional structure of interstate economic relations, including trade and monetary regimes, foreign investment, foreign aid, and government development policies. Students analyze how international and domestic institutions shape economic interactions among states and non‑state actors. Using scholarly literature and comparative case studies, the course evaluates competing theoretical approaches within international political economy. Emphasis is placed on understanding policy coordination, institutional design, and economic governance in the international system. Students develop analytical skills through structured examination of empirical evidence and policy outcomes across different regional and historical contexts.

PS 4355. US National Security Strategy.

This course examines the decision‑making processes and policy debates associated with contemporary U.S. national security strategy. Students analyze theories of strategy and grand strategy as analytical frameworks for understanding the formulation of security policy. The course evaluates strategic assessments related to interstate competition, transnational threats, and the coordinated use of military, intelligence, economic, and diplomatic instruments. Through engagement with scholarly literature and policy documents, students assess how strategic objectives are defined, prioritized, and implemented. Emphasis is placed on analytical reasoning, evidence‑based evaluation, and comparative assessment of strategic choices. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4379. Independent Study.

This course provides an individualized study of selected topics in political science through guided independent reading and research. Students, in consultation with the instructor, identify a specific area of inquiry and develop a structured research plan. The course emphasizes analytical engagement with scholarly literature and primary or secondary sources as appropriate to the topic. Students produce written work that demonstrates critical analysis, synthesis of research, and clear organization of findings. The instructor approves the topic, bibliography, and research outline to ensure academic rigor and disciplinary relevance. Prerequisite: Instructor approval. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4380. Internship in Government.

This course provides supervised experiential learning through participation in the work of a governmental or nonprofit organization. Students examine organizational functions and administrative processes while completing approved internship responsibilities under joint faculty and site supervision. The course integrates practical experience with academic analysis through written assignments and structured evaluation of workplace activities. Students analyze how organizational structures, policies, and procedures operate in professional settings. A minimum of 100-150 hours of professional development during the semester is required. The course emphasizes application of classroom knowledge to professional contexts and systematic assessment of experiential learning. Prerequisite: Instructor approval. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PS 4399. Senior Seminar in Political Science.

This course examines selected subfields within political science through intensive reading, research, and analytical writing. Students analyze scholarly literature representing different theoretical and methodological approaches across the discipline. The course emphasizes systematic inquiry, comparative analysis, and the development of research skills through written assignments and structured discussion. Through guided review of academic sources, students evaluate key concepts, debates, and research findings in political science. The course is required for political science majors. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PS 4680. Internship in Government.

This course provides supervised experiential learning through participation in the work of a governmental or nonprofit organization. Students examine organizational functions and administrative processes while completing approved internship responsibilities under joint faculty and site supervision. The course integrates practical experience with academic analysis through written assignments and structured evaluation of workplace activities. Students analyze how organizational structures, policies, and procedures operate in professional settings. A minimum of 200-300 hours of professional development during the semester is required. The course emphasizes application of classroom knowledge to professional contexts and systematic assessment of experiential learning. Prerequisite: Instructor approval. Corequisite: PS 3300 or PS 3301 either with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 3300. Introduction to Public and Nonprofit Administration.

This course examines the foundational concepts, structures, and functions of public and nonprofit administration in the United States. Students analyze the institutional, legal, and political contexts in which public and nonprofit organizations operate, with attention to organizational structure, management processes, and administrative decision making. The course explores theories and practices of public management, intergovernmental relations, and nonprofit governance. Students evaluate contemporary administrative challenges through case studies and applied analysis, emphasizing evidence based reasoning and comparative perspectives. The course develops analytical skills relevant to understanding how public and nonprofit organizations are designed, managed, and assessed.

PA 3301. Political Institutions and Public Service.

This course analyzes the structure and operation of political institutions and their relationship to public sector governance. Students examine theoretical foundations of political institutions, patterns of political engagement, and ethical frameworks used to assess public sector decision making. Through comparative analysis and case based inquiry, the course evaluates how institutions shape administrative practices and public outcomes. The course emphasizes analytical reasoning, conceptual clarity, and disciplined evaluation of institutional functions rather than advocacy or prescriptive conclusions. Students gain methodological tools for examining political and administrative systems within diverse governmental and organizational contexts.

PA 3310. Public Finance Administration.

This course examines fiscal administration and public budgeting across federal, state, local, and nonprofit organizations in the United States. Students analyze theoretical frameworks and applied practices used to manage public revenues and expenditures within governmental and nonprofit contexts. The course evaluates budgeting processes, fiscal policy tools, and financial management systems using case studies, data analysis, and comparative inquiry. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills necessary to assess fiscal decision‑making, resource allocation, and financial accountability in public and nonprofit institutions. 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.

PA 3311. Analytical Techniques.

This course examines quantitative analytical methods and fundamental statistical concepts, ranging from descriptive measures to inferential procedures. Students analyze datasets using established statistical techniques and appropriate analytical software. The course evaluates methods for data summarization, hypothesis testing, and statistical inference through applied exercises and case‑based analysis. Emphasis is placed on interpreting quantitative results, assessing analytical assumptions, and communicating findings through professional reports. Students develop analytical skills necessary to evaluate data‑driven evidence in academic and applied research contexts. 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.

PA 3314. State and Local Government.

This course examines the structure, organization, and constitutional foundations of state and local governments in the United States, with specific attention to Texas. Students analyze governmental functions, powers, and institutional processes using legal documents, scholarly literature, and comparative examples. The course evaluates how state and local institutions participate in public policy formulation and implementation within federal and state systems. Emphasis is placed on analytical understanding of intergovernmental relationships, institutional authority, and administrative processes. Students develop skills in institutional analysis and evidence based evaluation of state and local government operations. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 3316. Metropolitan Politics.

This course examines political institutions and policy processes in urban and suburban contexts within the United States. Students analyze metropolitan governance structures, intergovernmental relationships, and policy making processes using scholarly literature and applied case studies. The course evaluates contemporary metropolitan policy issues as examples of how institutional design, political authority, and administrative capacity influence policy formulation and implementation. Emphasis is placed on analytical frameworks that explain governance complexity, coordination challenges, and policy outcomes across metropolitan regions. Students develop skills in institutional analysis and evidence based evaluation of urban political processes.

PA 3330. Public Personnel and Human Resource Administration.

This course examines the legal, institutional, and organizational foundations of personnel management in government and nonprofit organizations. Students analyze laws, regulations, and administrative procedures that shape public sector human resource systems. The course evaluates key personnel functions, including workforce planning, position classification, recruitment, selection, compensation, training, performance appraisal, and labor relations. Through analysis of cases and administrative materials, students assess how human resource practices influence organizational effectiveness and compliance within public and nonprofit contexts. Emphasis is placed on analytical understanding of personnel systems rather than prescriptive management approaches.

PA 3340. Administrative Law.

This course examines the rulemaking, adjudication, and enforcement powers of federal and state administrative agencies within the United States legal system. Students analyze statutes that delegate authority to administrative bodies and evaluate constitutional and statutory challenges to agency action. The course explores the principles and doctrines courts use to review administrative decisions, including standards of judicial review and procedural requirements. Through analysis of statutes, judicial opinions, and administrative materials, students assess how legal frameworks structure agency authority and constrain administrative discretion. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills related to legal interpretation and institutional design.

PA 3350. Public Policy Process.

This course examines the theories, processes, and practices involved in public policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. Students analyze how public policy is developed within institutional, political, and economic contexts and how policies are carried out and assessed over time. The course introduces analytical frameworks used to study decision‑making, agenda setting, and policy outcomes. Substantive examples may include environmental and sustainability policy, energy policy, and selected social and economic policy areas. Emphasis is placed on evaluating policy processes using empirical evidence and established concepts from public policy and political science.

PA 3351. Urban Management and Regional Policy.

This course examines key concepts and frameworks in regional and urban management and policy. Students analyze how urban administrative practices and regional policy decisions shape the organization, development, and operation of American cities. The course introduces institutional, economic, and governance perspectives used to study metropolitan and regional systems. Through selected case studies and empirical research, students evaluate policy design, management structures, and implementation processes. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills to assess urban and regional policy outcomes within different governmental and administrative contexts. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 4300A. Leadership in Public Administration.

This course examines leadership concepts and practices within the field of public administration. Students analyze leadership theories, managerial roles, and decision‑making processes as they apply to public sector organizations. The course introduces organizational, institutional, and administrative frameworks used to study leadership in governmental and nonprofit settings. Through case studies and applied analysis, students evaluate how leadership approaches influence organizational performance, policy implementation, and administrative outcomes. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills relevant to leadership challenges in public administration. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PA 4340. Issues in Law and Public Policy.

This course examines contemporary legal issues and their relationship to public policy development and implementation. Students analyze how legal frameworks interact with policy objectives across different governmental and organizational contexts. The course applies legal and institutional analysis to selected policy areas, which may include environmental law, regulatory approaches to climate related policy, voting and election law, criminal justice policy, firearms regulation, and privacy law. Emphasis is placed on understanding the roles of public agencies and nonprofit organizations in interpreting, administering, and responding to legal mandates. Students develop analytical skills to evaluate legal issues within public policy contexts. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 4352. Comparative Public Administration.

This course examines the field of public administration with a comparative focus on administrative and public policy systems in the United States and selected countries. It analyzes institutional structures, administrative processes, and policy implementation across different national contexts. Using comparative frameworks, case studies, and scholarly literature, the course evaluates similarities and differences in governance arrangements and administrative practices. Students assess how political, legal, and organizational factors influence public administration across countries, emphasizing systematic analysis rather than normative evaluation. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 4362. Government, Nonprofit and American Business.

This course examines the role of American business in the public policy process through analysis of interactions among public, private, and nonprofit sectors. It analyzes how political institutions, regulatory frameworks, and policy decisions shape organizational behavior across sectors. The course also evaluates how businesses and nonprofit organizations participate in policy implementation, particularly through contracting and public‑private partnerships. Using case studies, policy analysis, and organizational theory, students assess patterns of intersectoral collaboration and influence. Emphasis is placed on evidence‑based evaluation of institutional relationships and policy outcomes. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 4370. Ethics in American Government.

This course examines ethical and cultural questions associated with public service in governmental, nonprofit, and voluntary organizations. The course analyzes major ethical theories and frameworks and applies them to cases drawn from public administration and policy contexts. Topics include healthcare, privacy, accountability, education, research, planning, elections, and policymaking. Through structured inquiry, students evaluate competing ethical arguments, assess institutional constraints, and analyze the implications of ethical decision‑making in public organizations. Emphasis is placed on analytical reasoning, use of evidence, and comparison of alternative approaches to ethical issues in public service. Corequisite: PA 3301 with a grade of "D" or better.

PA 4379. Independent Study in Public Administration.

This course provides an individualized program of study through independent reading and research in selected areas of public administration. Students examine a defined topic approved by the instructor and develop a structured plan of inquiry, including a bibliography and research outline. The course emphasizes analytical engagement with scholarly literature, methodological rigor, and systematic evaluation of administrative practices and theories. Through independent investigation, students analyze relevant concepts, assess empirical and theoretical perspectives, and produce a research‑based written project that demonstrates discipline‑based reasoning and clear argumentation. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PA 4389. Internship in Public Administration.

This course provides structured internship experience in public or nonprofit organizations, emphasizing applied learning in public administration settings. Students examine organizational processes and administrative practices through professional engagement totaling 100-150 hours. Under faculty guidance, students analyze workplace activities, institutional roles, and administrative functions. The course requires completion of a written report evaluating the professional experience using discipline based concepts and analytical frameworks. Emphasis is placed on systematic observation, application of academic knowledge, and critical analysis of organizational operations within public and nonprofit contexts. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PA 4398. Research in Public Administration.

This course examines foundational concepts and analytical approaches used in the study of public administration. Emphasis is placed on identifying, locating, and evaluating scholarly and professional resources relevant to administrative practice and governance. Students analyze public administration across federal, state, and local levels using discipline based frameworks and academic literature. The course emphasizes research skills, critical use of sources, and systematic analysis of administrative structures and processes. Through structured inquiry, students develop the capacity to assess public administration concepts using evidence based reasoning. Prerequisites: Instructor approval.

PA 4689. Internship in Public Administration.

This course provides structured internship experience in public or nonprofit organizations, emphasizing applied learning in public administration settings. Students examine organizational processes and administrative practices through professional engagement totaling 200-300 hours. Under faculty guidance, students analyze workplace activities, institutional roles, and administrative functions. The course requires completion of a written report evaluating the professional experience using discipline-based concepts and analytical frameworks. Emphasis is placed on systematic observation, application of academic knowledge, and critical analysis of organizational operations within public and nonprofit contexts. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.