( ) Year of initial appointment at Binghamton
Anderson, Christopher J., Professor, PhD, 1993, Washington University: American politics, comparative politics, methodology. (1998)
Banks, Arthur S., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1967, George Washington University: Comparative politics (quantitative and descriptive). (1968)
Brunell, Thomas, Assistant Professor, 1998, University of California-Irvine: American politics, Congress, elections, methodology. (1999)
Cingranelli, David L., Professor, PhD, 1977, University of Pennsylvania: American politics, state and local politics, public policy. (1976)
Clark, David H., Assistant Professor, PhD, 1999, Florida State University: International relations, political methodology, American politics. (2000)
Filley, Walter O., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1950, Yale University: International politics, comparative and American foreign policy, comparative politics. (1958)
Hakman, Nathan, Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1954, University of Illinois: Law and politics, judicial process, American politics, civil rights and civil liberties. (1960)
Hofferbert, Richard I., Distinguished Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1962, Indiana University: Comparative politics, public policy, American state politics, methods of social inquiry. (1975)
Laremont, Ricardo R., Assistant Professor, PhD, 1995, Yale University: Comparative politics, political economy, religion and politics. (1968)
Licari, Michael J., Assistant Professor, PhD, 1997, University of Wisconsin: Public policy, public administration, policy analysis. (1998)
Martinek, Wendy L., Assistant Professor, PhD, 2000, Michigan State University: Judicial behavior and politics, research methods, public bureaucracy and public policy. (2000)
Mazrui, Ali A., Albert Schweitzer Professor in the Humanities, PhD, 1966, Oxford University: Comparative politics, world politics, political theory. (1989)
McDonald, Michael D., Associate Professor and Department Chair, PhD, 1977, Florida State University: Legislative politics, electoral politics, methodology. (1986)
Milnor, Andrew, Associate Professor, PhD, 1962, Duke University: American public policy, comparative politics. (1977)
Nieburg, Harold L., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1961, University of Chicago: International politics, American politics, political behavior. (1970)
Peretz, Don, Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1955, Columbia University: Comparative politics (Middle East), international politics. (1966)
Polachek, Solomon W., Distinguished Professor, PhD, 1973, Columbia University: Labor economics, human capital and income distribution, econometrics. (1983)
Regan, Patrick M., Associate Professor, PhD, 1992, University of Michigan: International conflict and cooperation, foreign policy processes, international political economy. (1998)
Rehberg, Richard A., Associate Professor, PhD, 1965, Pennsylvania State University: Education in public policy, research methodology, communities in transition. (1966)
Rutkowski, Edwin H., Associate Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1960, Columbia University: International politics; American, foreign and defense policy; comparative politics. (1967)
Smith, Paul A., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1960, Princeton University: American politics, political parties, political behavior, public policy. (1965)
Ulc, Otto, Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1964, Columbia University: Comparative politics, international politics, international law and organization. (1964)
Young, James P., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1963, University of Michigan: Political theory, American political thought, American politics. (1961)
Ziegenhagen, Eduard A., Professor, PhD, 1964, University of Illinois: Political socialization, empirical political theory, simulation and gaming. (1969)
[ TOP ]
The political science curriculum comprises the systematic study of the theory and practice of politics and government at various levels — domestic, foreign and international. Depending on the area studied, particular emphasis may be given to questions of a philosophical nature, to the role and performance of institutions and political systems or to the political behavior of individuals and groups.
Courses in political science are structured on four levels: introductory (numbered below 200); lower-level intermediate (200-299); upper-level intermediate (300-399); and advanced (400-499). Unless otherwise specified, courses above 400 can be counted toward the department’s seminar requirements. There are six introductory courses (encompassing four fields) that assume no prior background in the discipline: PLSC 111 (American Politics), PLSC 112 (Cultural Forces in World Politics), PLSC 113 (Comparative Politics), PLSC 115 (Political Theory), PLSC 117 (International Politics) and PLSC 210 (American Pluralism). These serve as prerequisites for other courses but may be skipped by students who have equivalent prior coursework in political science or related disciplines, including advanced placement credit in American government or comparative politics.
Requirements for the BA in political science include 10 courses in political science, including not more than three introductory courses (PLSC 111, 112, 113, 115, 117), not more than two independent study courses and at least two 400-level seminars to be taken in residence at Binghamton University. In selecting their courses, students must take at least one four-credit course each in American politics, political theory, comparative politics and international relations. Courses acceptable in meeting these distribution requirements are identified as American, Theory, Comparative and International in the course descriptions that follow. With the approval of the undergraduate director, appropriate alternative courses may be used to satisfy the distribution requirements.
The Political Science Department views the grade of D as passing but unsatisfactory. Courses passed with a grade of D do not fulfill requirements for the major or the related field requirement. Courses taken Pass/Fail do not count toward the major or in fulfillment of the related field requirement.
Four courses complementing political science and in at least three other departments and disciplines are also required. These should be selected in conjunction with the student’s particular interests in political science. Normally, these should be diversified courses in other social sciences or, if outside social sciences, related to the student’s curricular purposes.
Transfer students must take at least four political science courses in residence at Binghamton. Transfer course grades must be C– or better to count toward the major. No transfer course counting toward the major may be taken Pass/Fail.
Students of senior standing with appropriate political science background are allowed to take graduate-level courses with the instructor’s consent. Successful completion of such a course is counted toward the seminar requirement of the political science requirement. The department urges students who intend to do graduate work in the discipline to consider taking at least one of the following courses: PLSC 361, 362 or 470. Majors are also strongly encouraged to complete at least one substantial paper, based on their own investigation of a problem in an area of the political science discipline, either as part of a regular course, through independent study or as an honors research project thesis (PLSC 498 and 499).
Prior to preregistration each semester, students who major in political science should review their programs of study with their advisers. If, for any reason, students are unable to do so, they should be in touch with the department’s director of the undergraduate program.
Superior students majoring in political science are considered for admission to the honors program upon the successful completion of five semesters or 80 credit hours (including at least 16 in political science). The program consists of between 12 and 16 credits: a four-credit seminar (if sufficient demand); a four-credit research project in the first semester of the senior year; one graduate seminar in either fall or spring semester; and a four-credit thesis project and a successful defense of an honors thesis in the second. Students should consult with the chair of the departmental honors committee or the director of undergraduate studies for full information.
[ TOP ]
The Department of Political Science offers a graduate program of study leading to the master of arts (MA) and doctor of philosophy (PhD) degrees. Binghamton University also has a master of public administration program; for details, see the listing under Public Administration. The MA is normally pursued in the process of earning a PhD, although a few students do choose to pursue the MA-only option. The primary goal is to educate scholars who will contribute to the development of political science through careers in teaching and research.
The program emphasizes a broadly based theoretical understanding of political behavior and institutions coupled with the ability to carry out systematic empirical analysis. Students may choose a primary substantive focus on American politics, comparative politics or international relations. Students also choose a secondary focus from one of five areas; these include the American politics, comparative politics and international relations sub-fields, plus research methodology and political theory.
The organization of the program is based on two convictions. One is that political science is a unique subject matter that requires specialization. The second is that in the next generation all the social sciences, including political science, will rely increasingly on systematic evidence and quantitative analysis. Foreseeing this future, we have designed a program to help students successfully participate in it.
Students entering with a BA or BS degree are normally required to take five semesters of coursework, including at least two and normally five semesters of training in research methodology and statistics. Students entering with an MA normally enroll in courses for fewer semesters. Beyond coursework, completion of the PhD program requires passing comprehensive exams in one’s major and minor areas of expertise. When a student successfully passes these exams, completes all the requirements outlined above, and presents a prospectus for the dissertation, she or he receives a master’s degree. Remaining requirements for the PhD consist of researching, writing and defending the PhD dissertation.
Applicants for admission are required to submit scores of their Graduate Record Examinations. An undergraduate specialization in political science is desirable but not essential. A broad background in the social sciences, humanities, languages, statistics and mathematics is considered a desirable preparation for study in the discipline. Applicants are expected to present minimum cumulative undergraduate grade-point averages of 3.0 in all subjects and 3.2 in political science courses, with combined verbal, quantitative and analytical scores above 1500 on the Graduate Record Examinations.
For a student with insufficient preparation in political science or related subjects, the departmental Graduate Committee may, at the time of matriculation, specify:
1. Additional credits to be earned beyond the 32-40 normally needed for the MA degree; or
2. Additional study without graduate credit in subject areas in which the student may be deficient.
During their first or second semester, master’s students must organize a guidance committee composed of their academic adviser and two faculty members.
To do this, students should obtain the "Nomination of Graduate Committee" form from the graduate secretary and approach the relevant faculty members for their signatures.
Once this is done, the form must be filed with the department’s Graduate Committee for approval. Prior to their final semester in residence, master’s students must organize their comprehensive examination committee. This committee may, but need not, be the same as the student’s guidance committee.
The "Nomination of Guidance Committee" form must be filed with the Graduate Committee each time a change in committee composition is proposed.
Conventional master’s candidates may choose either a thesis or non-thesis option. Students adopting the thesis option must complete seven seminars with a B average or better, plus a thesis. Of the seven seminars, at least six must be taken within the department; three of the six must be in the area of specialization and one must be PLSC 500 (Seminar in Research Methods and Statistics). The non-thesis option requires a minimum of nine seminars (seven in the department), which must include PLSC 500 and 12 hours in the specialization area.
Different examination procedures exist for thesis and non-thesis students. Thesis students are examined by their guidance committee on the thesis and on knowledge of their area of specialization. Non-thesis students must take a written examination, which tests the student’s general knowledge of the field of political science as well as specific knowledge in the specialization area. These exams should be taken during the last semester of coursework, typically the third or fourth semester of residence.
All master’s students must file Form 2, "Declaration of Candidacy," during the semester in which they intend to receive their master’s degree.
(see listing under Public Administration)
Applicants for admission to the PhD program are required to submit scores of their Graduate Record Examination and are expected to have achieved combined verbal, quantitative and analytical scores above 1650, with a minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.3. Formal admission to the PhD program occurs only when the student has completed at least one semester in full-time residence in the department’s graduate program and has successfully passed the qualifying examination. Until these requirements are fulfilled, all admissions to the PhD program are considered provisional.
Doctoral candidates must have a guidance committee, a PhD examination committee and a dissertation committee during their stay at Binghamton University. These committees may be composed of the same members throughout or may change if the student wishes. Each committee serves a slightly different function, as are described below.
General Guidance Committee. Doctoral candidates must organize a general guidance committee during their first or second semester in residence. This committee is made up of three members of the department faculty. The guidance committee administers the qualifying examination and advises the student on courses and other requirements needed to complete the degree. The guidance committee may be organized by obtaining the "Nomination of Graduate Committee" form from the graduate secretary, collecting the signatures of the proposed members, and submitting it to the graduate committee for approval.
PhD Exam Committee. Degree aspirants must organize a committee including at least three political science faculty members to administer the PhD comprehensive exam. This committee may, but need not, be the same as the general guidance committee. Changes should be made at least six months prior to the exams. To change the composition of the committee, students need to obtain the standard "Nomination of Graduate Committee" form from the graduate secretary and submit it to the graduate committee for approval. An additional examiner, from the department’s faculty, is assigned by the director of graduate studies.
Dissertation Guidance Committee. The final committee to be formed is the dissertation guidance committee. This committee serves in an advisory capacity to the doctoral student during the preparation of the dissertation. Again, this three-member committee may be different from the original general guidance and PhD exam committees and may include extra-departmental faculty. If changes are made, the "Nomination of Graduate Committee" form should be filed soon after the student passes the comprehensive exam. Admission to candidacy cannot be completed without the dissertation guidance committee in place. Changes may be made during the dissertation phase as the student deems necessary and with approval of the Graduate Committee. An examiner from outside the department is assigned to the committee by the provost for research and graduate studies to participate in the oral defense.
The PhD curriculum is divided into five fields: American politics, comparative politics, world politics, political methodology, and political theory. Students are expected to declare one major and one minor field. The first three are available as major fields, and students may minor in any of the five. The exact mix of courses, the research tutorial and seminar, and the distribution requirement are left up to the student in consultation with his or her guidance committee.
All students must take three courses: PLSC 500, 501 and 671. These lay the foundation for the methodological skills and general theoretical framework required for political analysis. In addition, individuals are required to take at least one course each in American politics, comparative politics and world politics, to ensure they acquire some sense of the breadth of the political science discipline. Students are required, as well, to take at least 12 hours in their minor field. Students minoring in political methodology are required to take 12 hours beyond PLSC 501. A minimum of 15 seminars (60 hours) is required by the Graduate School for the PhD degree, though a student’s guidance committee or the Graduate Committee may require courses beyond the Graduate School’s minimum. Students may enroll in independent study with professors. However, those who wish to complete more than one independent study must obtain the prior approval of the Graduate Committee in order for it to be included among courses fulfilling the 15-course requirement.
In addition to completing the seminar requirements, students also must register for PLSC 699. A student must be registered for PLSC 699 during the semester in which the dissertation defense takes place.
While the number of courses the department offers is limited by enrollments and core requirements, faculty members with a variety of areas of expertise and research interests are available for directed readings, independent study and other projects. The department also encourages students to take advantage of courses offered by other departments, such as economics and sociology, and the School of Management. A maximum of four courses from these cognate disciplines may be applied toward completion of degree requirements.
Research Tutorial and Seminar. During the fourth and fifth semesters, all students take a two-term course in Research and Writing. This sequence is devoted to the preparation of a manuscript based on original research on a topic of the student’s choice. The first semester is conducted as an individual tutorial with a faculty member of the student’s choice. The second semester is conducted as a seminar including all students who have completed tutorials.
Successful completion of PLSC 500 and 501, required for all PhD students, fulfills the basic skill requirement. An advanced research skill may be acquired in either research methodology or foreign language.
Research Methodology. Students entering the program with a BA or BS degree must complete eight credit hours in research methodology beyond PLSC 501. Students entering the program with an MA or MS must complete four credit hours in research methodology beyond PLSC 501, if they have taken at least one advanced methodology course as part of a master’s program and eight credit hours otherwise.
Foreign Language. Students whose native language is English may satisfy the foreign language skill requirement by taking and completing with a grade of B or better an advanced foreign language course at Binghamton. The language course must include composition and conversation. Students whose first language is not English may satisfy the foreign language skill by passing a course requiring a substantial amount of attention to writing skills in Binghamton’s Department of English, General Literature and Rhetoric. The use of a language to fulfill the advanced skill requirement, as well as the courses to be taken, must be approved in advance by the student’s guidance committee and the department’s Graduate Committee.
Successful completion of PLSC 500 and 501, required for all PhD students, fulfills the basic skill requirement. An advanced research skill may be acquired in either research methodology or foreign language.
Research Methodology. Students entering the program with a BA or BS degree must complete eight credit hours in research methodology beyond PLSC 501. Students entering the program with an MA or MS must complete four credit hours in research methodology beyond PLSC 501, if they have taken at least one advanced methodology course as part of a master’s program and eight credit hours otherwise.
Foreign Language. Students whose native language is English may satisfy the foreign language skill requirement by taking and completing with a grade of B or better an advanced foreign language course at Binghamton. The language course must include composition and conversation. Students whose first language is not English may satisfy the foreign language skill by passing a course requiring a substantial amount of attention to writing skills in Binghamton’s Department of English, General Literature and Rhetoric. The use of a language to fulfill the advanced skill requirement, as well as the courses to be taken, must be approved in advance by the student’s guidance committee and the department’s Graduate Committee.
Qualifying Exam. Students entering the program with an MA must take the qualifying exam between Feb. 1 and March 15 of their first year in residence. Students entering the program with a BA only must take the qualifying exam between Sept. 15 and Nov. 1 of their second year in residence. Students must submit a paper for their qualifying exam; written MA exams are not accepted in place of the paper. The examining committee uses the paper, in part, to determine the student’s potential for conducting independent research. The committee also explores the strengths in the student’s political science background and assesses the work the student must perform before undertaking comprehensive exams and dissertation research. The examining committee submits to the Graduate Committee its recommendation regarding the student’s admission to the PhD program, detailing political science preparation prior to enrolling at Binghamton, major and minor fields, course distribution at Binghamton (completed and anticipated), a description of how the skill requirement will be satisfied, expected comprehensive exam date, and professional activities.
Dissertation Prospectus and Qualifying Exam. A student may schedule a comprehensive examination one month after submitting a dissertation prospectus. The examination explores the student’s breadth of knowledge in political science, paying particular attention to the breadth and depth of knowledge in the student’s major and minor fields. The prospectus serves as one major component of the exam. It serves as the basis for demonstrating both mastery of the literature in the major and minor fields and the potential to conduct research and write the dissertation. The exam is conducted by the student’s PhD examination committee, with the addition of one outside member appointed by the director of research and graduate studies. Be aware that it is the student’s responsibility to schedule the examination. This means the student must find a time convenient for all committee members, including the outside member, to meet.
Dissertation and Defense. Once the comprehensive exams have been completed, the student should focus attention on the dissertation. The development of the dissertation is aided by the dissertation supervisor. Students should take care to choose someone with whom they can work closely and who has an interest in the proposed research. The supervisor gives advice on the direction the research should take, critiques work in progress, encourages the advisee to finish the task within a reasonable time frame and assists in job placement. A final draft of the dissertation must be submitted to the dissertation committee within five years of successful completion of the PhD comprehensive exams. Before the PhD can be conferred, the candidate must defend his or her work in an oral public defense. The dissertation committee must unanimously recommend conferral of the degree. Specific guidelines regarding the dissertation can be found in the Faculty and Student Graduate Degree Handbook. The handbook clearly outlines all the procedures for proper preparation and submission of the dissertation, including formatting, microfilming and binding. Protecting the research through copyright is explained as well. Students are advised to consult the handbook throughout the degree process.
[ TOP ]
PLSC 111. INTRODUCTION TO AMERICAN POLITICS
American political institutions, processes, behavior, relationships among
cultural, legal, social aspects of American political system. Applications to
contemporary issues and events.
PLSC 210. AMERICAN PLURALISM: THE POLITICS OF DIVERSITY
Exploration of the American political experience as a pluralist one,
including the role of public policy in the creation of a nation from social
heterogeneity. American political ideology, poverty as it has affected diverse
groups, groups as they confront American political institutions, and American
political and social integration. Emphasis on policy issues involving
immigration, class, religion, race and gender.
PLSC 215. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Introduction to public policy analysis combined with applications to
environmental problems and issues. Focus on political context of environmental
issues and policy making; consideration of special problems arising from
distinctive scientific bases of environmental issues. Prerequisite: PLSC 111 or
ENVI 101-201.
PLSC 219. PLURALISM, PREJUDICE
Public law as an instrument of social control and social change focusing on
the experiences of three groups that have suffered from legal and social
discrimination: African Americans (slavery and segregation), Japanese Americans
(relocation and incarceration during World War II) and European Americans (the
"red scare" of the 1920s and McCarthyism during the Cold War).
PLSC 282. SPECIAL TOPICS IN AMERICAN POLITICS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 284. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLICY ANALYSIS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 285. SPECIAL TOPICS IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 320. PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Significance and development of American public administration; key issues
related to public administration in democratic system; involvement of public
agencies and administrators in public policy process. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 321. THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY
Public bureaucracies, including federal executive structure. Role of
President as chief executive, political context of administrative activities,
interrelationships with federal executive structure, Congress, interest groups.
Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 322. AMERICAN POLITICAL PARTIES AND PRESSURE GROUPS
Structure and functions of American political parties; electoral and
policy-making roles of parties, problems of party development and change.
Prerequisite: PLSC 211.
PLSC 323. THE CONGRESS IN AMERICAN POLITICS
American legislative processes, relationships of Congress to other branches
of government and organized interest groups. Theories of representation and
legislative behavior. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 324. CAMPAIGNS AND ELECTIONS
Structure and impact of major political campaigns and elections in United
States. Interaction of political parties, interest groups, personalities;
effects of elections on public policy, proposals for reforms. Prerequisite: PLSC
111.
PLSC 326. AMERICAN STATE POLITICS
Political culture, major and minor parties, interest groups and elections.
Structure of state, local government; making and implementing public policy;
applications to contemporary issues and events. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 328. PUBLIC POLICY AND THE POLITICAL PROCESS
Formulation of public policies, primarily in context of American politics,
in controversial areas: social impact of science and technology, regulation of
business and labor, environmental quality, transportation, welfare. Specific
topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 329. PUBLIC LAW
Fundamentals of legal process, method of legal analysis, organization and
structure of judicial system; constitutional framework, case histories of civil
and criminal litigation. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 331. CONSTITUTIONAL LAW AND POLITICS
Supreme Court opinions illustrating development and growth of Constitution
through judicial interpretation. Official, unofficial implementation of judicial
language. Judicial, presidential, congressional power; problems of federalism;
state power in federal system. Prerequisite: PLSC 111 or 329.
PLSC 333 (ALSO WOMN 334). CIVIL RIGHTS AND LIBERTIES
Supreme Court opinions dealing with environmental law, consumer rights,
communications, elections, citizenship, immigration, nationality; strategies and
tactics used to change judicial policies in these and other areas of civil
rights and liberties. Prerequisite: PLSC 331.
PLSC 335. POLITICS AND THE LEGAL ORDER
Synthesis of traditional and contemporary approaches to study of legal
behavior and judicial process. Fact finding, decision making, collegial
behavior, litigation strategy and tactics, law reform, public interest
litigation and political trials. Analysis and impact of judicial opinions.
Prerequisite: one intermediate course in public law.
PLSC 337. LAW, THE COURTS AND SOCIAL ISSUES
Compelling social issues facing our criminal justice system; role of law,
judge and courts in criminal administrative process. Treatment of defendant from
initial arrest through release from official custody. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 339. CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Pre-sentence information and sentencing procedures, imprisonment or
alternatives to imprisonment, control and treatment during probation, appeals
review, issues connected with imprisonment and parole. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 340. PUBLIC OPINION
Interrelation of policy process and opinion, including input/output
connections and feedback. Introduction to basic tools of measurement. Critical
examination of concepts, practical experience in survey research design and
execution. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 342. URBAN POLITICS
Examination of competing explanations of urban politics. Topics include
immigration, melting pot thesis, racial formation, world system analysis,
globalization and segmented labor theory. Exploration of extent to which
American cities have been receptive or hostile to recent immigrants/migrants.
Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 360. POLITICAL BEHAVIOR
Voting, party affiliation, public opinion, institutional roles, policy
making; their relation to social structure, particularly in United States.
Concepts and methods of analysis, direct applications to substantive political
problems. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 382. SPECIAL TOPICS IN AMERICAN POLITICS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 384. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLICY ANALYSIS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 385. SPECIAL TOPICS IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 421. AMERICAN POLITICS: CONGRESS
Congress as a representative and lawmaking institution. Congressional
decision making and the influence that such forces as constituencies, interest
groups and the executive have on the Congressional decision-making process
and outcomes. Prerequisite: one intermediate course in American politics.
PLSC 422. BLACK POLITICS IN AMERICA
Critical evaluation of fundamental concepts and propositions related to
black politics within U.S. political system. African American experience
compared with the Latino, Irish and other ethnic and minority groups.
Prerequisite: one intermediate course in American politics.
PLSC 423. RESEARCH IN PUBLIC POLICY
Research seminar in American politics, mostly national. Survey of research
and methodology, development of researchable public policy hypothesis,
collection and analysis of data, and preparation of paper dealing with the
development, enactment, implementation and evaluation of real-time public policy
during the presidency of William Clinton. Prerequisite: one intermediate course
in American politics.
PLSC 452. EVOLUTION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
Structures and functions of legal systems. Exploration of differences in
national systems of justice and changes in justice systems over time. Emphasis
on scientific perspective and methods of systematic empirical inquiry.
Prerequisite: PLSC 328 or 361.
PLSC 453. POLICY ISSUES OF THE FUTURE
Examination of "cutting edge" policy issues in some depth. May
include: North-South relations, global climate change, medical ethics, human
reproduction technology. Prerequisite: PLSC 328 or 361.
PLSC 454. CRIMINAL JUSTICE POLICY
Review and assessment of origin and administration of law as a form of
public policy. Development and administration of law in contemporary society as
an aspect of crime control systems. Research question development and hypothesis
testing. Prerequisite: PLSC 328 or 361.
PLSC 456 (ALSO ENVI 482). ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ANALYSIS
Environmental policy making as a process and the substance of environmental
policy. Policy evaluation, different types of analysis, regulation and
deregulation, consideration of current environmental problems. Prerequisite:
PLSC 328 or 215 or ENVI 215.
PLSC 481. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN AMERICAN POLITICS
Legislative behavior, interest groups, socialization, elites. Methodology
and theory building. Specific topics to be determined for given semesters.
Prerequisite: one intermediate-level course in American politics.
PLSC 482. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLICY ANALYSIS
Policy impact analysis, analysis of social change, development of social
indicators, forecasting future of urban social systems. Range of methods from
intuitive to mathematical, including general systems approach. Prerequisite:
PLSC 361 or 213.
PLSC 483. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Advanced research on current issues of public management, bureaucratic
politics, role of administration in policy process. Prerequisite: PLSC 320.
PLSC 115. INTRODUCTION TO IDEAS AND POLITICS
Major types of Western political theory, representative thinkers such as
Plato, Hobbes, Mill, Marx. Application of ideas of these and other theorists to
contemporary politics.
PLSC 287. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 115.
PLSC 371. MACHIAVELLI TO MARX
Major socio-political ideas and thinkers of modern world. Theories
associated with origins of modern politics emergency of mass democracy, impact
of industrial revolution, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Bentham,
Mill, Marx. Prerequisite: one introductory course in political science.
PLSC 373. AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT
Development of American political thought. Relationships between ideas and
actions, between theory and institutions. Prerequisite: PLSC 111 or 115.
PLSC 387. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 115.
PLSC 445 (ALSO AFST 445). COMPARATIVE BLACK POLITICAL THOUGHT
Historical and contemporary theories of liberation expounded by
theoreticians from an Afrocentric perspective; pan-pigmentationist theories
and political movements concerned with questions of slavery, colonialism and
racial oppression; pan-proletarianist theories and political movements concerned
with questions of economic justice within countries and worldwide. Prerequisite:
one course in comparative or international politics.
PLSC 462. CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT
Principal issues in current American thought as they relate to political and
social issues such as democratic and constitutional theory, political economy,
race and gender problems, rights of individuals vs. claims of community, theory
of justice. Consideration of range of positions across ideological spectrum.
Prerequisites: two of the following: PLSC 110, 115, 371, 373, PHIL 145 or
permission of instructor.
PLSC 487. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Issues related to political theory. Specific topics to be determined for
given semesters. Prerequisite: one intermediate-level course in field of
political theory.
PLSC 201. CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL ISSUES
Specific subject matter determined for particular semester. Open to students
not necessarily intending to major in political science who seek to broaden
their background in contemporary socio-political issues.
PLSC 281. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 341. WOMEN AND POLITICS
Role of women in politics in historical and theoretical context. Attitudes
of prominent political theorists toward role of females in political life.
Political cultural values as barriers to assumption by women of high political
office; changes in contemporary societies vis-à-vis role of women in politics.
Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 361. APPLIED POLITICAL METHODOLOGY
Research in political science, different modes of analysis. Empirical
methods, hypothesis construction, theory building, data analysis, computer
applications. Prerequisite: one prior course in political science.
PLSC 381. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 384. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLICY ANALYSIS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 391. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING COLLEGE POLITICAL SCIENCE var. cr.
Independent study through teaching in particular political science course.
Instructor directs students in preparation of syllabi, other course materials;
devising and reading examination; lecturing and/or leading discussion; academic
counseling; etc. May be repeated for total of no more than eight credits. Credit
may not be earned in conjunction with course in which student is currently
enrolled. Does not satisfy major or all-college requirements. Prerequisites:
consent of instructor and department. P/F only. Students must consult department
for detailed guidelines.
PLSC 392. PRACTICUM IN POLITICAL SCIENCE var. cr.
Combination of direct participation in some major political activity, such
as election campaign or service in government office, with relevant scholarly
analysis or research documentation from field experience. Prerequisites: junior
standing, three relevant political science courses and consent of instructor.
PLSC 394. ALBANY-WASHINGTON INTERNSHIP var. cr.
This course is the mechanism for transferring seminar components of Albany
and Washington internships to the department. The credits count toward the major
but may not be used to satisfy the departmental seminar requirement.
PLSC 395. INTERNSHIP RESEARCH PROJECT var. cr.
Exclusively for juniors and seniors engaged in internship under supervision
of member of department. Research completed in course of internship used as
basis for substantial paper or project on topic approved by faculty supervisor.
PLSC 396. COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH var. cr.
Exclusively for juniors and seniors who are working closely with a faculty
member on a collaborative research project.
PLSC 397. INDEPENDENT STUDY var. cr.
Tutorial study of specialized topics not offered in current curriculum.
Restricted to juniors and seniors with high standing in political science, with
consent of instructor.
PLSC 480. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Intensive study of particular topics determined in advance. Prerequisites:
appropriate sequence of at least two previous political science courses.
PLSC 484. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN PUBLIC LAW
Subject matter varies from semester to semester. Specific topic to be
determined for given term. Prerequisite: one intermediate course of public law.
PLSC 488. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL METHODOLOGY
Issues related to methodology, specific topics to be determined for given
semesters. Prerequisite: one intermediate-level course in methodology.
PLSC 112. CULTURAL FORCES IN WORLD POLITICS
The impact of values and worldviews upon the behavior of groups and states;
religion, language, class, ethnicity, race, gender and ideology in their
international implications. Analysis of both East-West relations and North-South
tensions from the perspective of political culture — including an exploration
into the culture causes of war.
PLSC 113. INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE POLITICS
Major institutions, processes, policy problems of government and politics in
representative, democratic, totalitarian and modernizing political systems.
PLSC 264. POLITICS OF LATIN AMERICA
Political system of Latin America; impact of social and economic change,
both domestic and international, on institutions and processes. Prerequisite:
PLSC 112 or 113.
PLSC 289. SPECIAL TOPICS IN COMPARATIVE POLITICS
Specific topics to be determined for each semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 113.
PLSC 311. POLITICS OF WESTERN EUROPE
Cross-national examination of constitutional democratic systems. Processes,
institutions, policies and problems of political change in major countries of
Western Europe. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 113.
PLSC 312. POLITICS OF FORMER SOVIET UNION AND EASTERN EUROPE
Institutions and processes in communist states of Soviet Union and Eastern
Europe. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 113.
PLSC 313. POLITICS OF CHINA AND NORTHEAST ASIA
Introduction to the politics and society of the world’s oldest
civilization; developments and transformations in the 20th century, with
emphasis on the post-1949 era. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 113.
PLSC 316. POLITICS OF MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA
Development of political system of Southwest Asia and North Africa; Egypt,
Algeria, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Israel, Turkey, Iran. Interaction of ideology,
social transformation, political structure. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 113.
PLSC 350. COMPARATIVE POLITICAL PARTIES
Cross-national study of organization and function of political parties.
Relationship of parties to political culture, recruitment, policy making.
Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 113.
PLSC 389. SPECIAL TOPICS IN COMPARATIVE POLITICS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 113.
PLSC 431. COMPARATIVE HEALTH CARE POLITICS
Cross-national analysis of health care delivery in developed and
lesser-developed nations, accounting for the impact of various factors,
including political, social, economic and legal. Prerequisite: one intermediate
course in comparative politics.
PLSC 432. POLITICAL TRANSFORMATION OF TODAY’S EUROPE
Political transformations in today’s Europe. Move from collectivism to
market economics. Conflict between pluralism and nationalism. Transformation of
authoritarian regimes into democracies. Prerequisite: one intermediate course in
comparative politics.
PLSC 435. POLITICS OF DEVELOPMENT
Political and social change and modernization in Third World; use of Western
and communist models of modernization; analysis of selected transitional
systems. Prerequisite: one intermediate course in comparative or international
politics.
PLSC 485. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN COMPARATIVE POLITICS
Advanced comparative and cross-national analysis of specialized aspects of
political systems. Specific topics to be determined for given semesters.
Prerequisite: one intermediate-level course in comparative politics.
PLSC 117. INTRODUCTION TO WORLD POLITICS
Concepts and issues comprising systematic understanding of contemporary
world politics; nation-state, sovereignty and nationalism in international
system; ideologies, economic imperialism, functions of international law and
organizations; changing political and economic relationships; war, violence,
deterrence.
PLSC 286. SPECIAL TOPICS IN WORLD POLITICS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 112
or 117.
PLSC 319. ISSUES IN WORLD POLITICS
Competition and cooperation among major powers; problems of population,
energy, food, environment; increasing political role of multinational
corporations, terrorist groups and other non-state actors; transnational
relations and world order. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 117.
PLSC 325. ETHICS AND U.S. FOREIGN POLICY
Examination of the morality of U.S. foreign policy. Topics include human
rights, foreign aid, foreign investment, economic sanctions, military
intervention, covert action, weapons proliferation, the global environment,
trade policy, drug policy, terrorism and the United Nations. Prerequisite: PLSC
110, 113 or 117.
PLSC 327. AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY
Formulation and conduct of recent foreign policy. Decision-making processes,
major participants, analysis of selected long-range trends. Case studies in
actual policies. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 117.
PLSC 375. INTERNATIONAL LAW
Nature, development, function of international law; its sources, unique
features, deficiencies. Prerequisite: PLSC 112 or 117.
PLSC 380. SPECIAL TOPICS IN WORLD POLITICS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 112,
113 or 117.
PLSC 402. DYNAMICS OF INTERNATIONAL CONFLICT
Consideration of theoretical, historical and empirical aspects of modern war
in search of its origins. Epistemological and ethical questions about the study
and conduct of war. Major ongoing interstate conflicts that threatened to
become, or already are, wars. Prerequisite: at least one course from among PLSC
319, 327, 375 and 440.
PLSC 403. ISLAM IN WORLD POLITICS
Factors behind the politicization of Islam, from theocratic tradition in
Islam to partition of India, from Jihad tradition to Islam’s confrontation
with Zionism over Palestine. The tensions among Islam, capitalism and
nationalism. Prerequisite: at least one course from among PLSC 319, 327, 375,
and 440.
PLSC 404. APPROACHES TO INTERNATIONAL POLITICS
In-depth examination of some major contemporary approaches to international
politics. Focus on modern "classics" of international relations by
Kennedy, Rosencrance, Gilpin, Waltz and Thompson. Prerequisite: at least one
course from among PLSC 319, 327, 375 and 440.
PLSC 405. INTERNATIONAL POLITICS OF THIRD WORLD
Examination of how changes in hegemonic power structures influence the
international politics of the Third World. Changing role of Third World
countries in the New World Order. Third World conflicts during and after the
Cold War. Prerequisite: at least one course from among PLSC 319, 327, 375 and
440.
PLSC 407. INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL ECONOMY
The politics of international economic relations focusing on the evolution
of the post-World War II political economy and analytical trends in the study of
the interaction between the international economy and world politics.
Prerequisites: PLSC 117 and at least one other course in either world or
American politics.
PLSC 486. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN WORLD POLITICS
Major world problems and developments. Specific topics to be determined for
given semesters. Prerequisite: at least one course from among PLSC 319, 327, 375
and 440.
PLSC 115. INTRODUCTION TO IDEAS AND POLITICS
Major types of Western political theory, representative thinkers such as
Plato, Hobbes, Mill, Marx. Application of ideas of these and other theorists to
contemporary politics.
PLSC 287. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 115.
PLSC 371. MACHIAVELLI TO MARX
Major socio-political ideas and thinkers of modern world. Theories
associated with origins of modern politics emergency of mass democracy, impact
of industrial revolution, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Bentham,
Mill, Marx. Prerequisite: one introductory course in political science.
PLSC 373. AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT
Development of American political thought. Relationships between ideas and
actions, between theory and institutions. Prerequisite: PLSC 111 or 115.
PLSC 387. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: PLSC 115.
PLSC 445 (ALSO AFST 445). COMPARATIVE BLACK POLITICAL THOUGHT
Historical and contemporary theories of liberation expounded by
theoreticians from an Afrocentric perspective; pan-pigmentationist theories
and political movements concerned with questions of slavery, colonialism and
racial oppression; pan-proletarianist theories and political movements concerned
with questions of economic justice within countries and worldwide. Prerequisite:
one course in comparative or international politics.
PLSC 462. CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT
Principal issues in current American thought as they relate to political and
social issues such as democratic and constitutional theory, political economy,
race and gender problems, rights of individuals vs. claims of community, theory
of justice. Consideration of range of positions across ideological spectrum.
Prerequisites: two of the following: PLSC 110, 115, 371, 373, PHIL 145 or
permission of instructor.
PLSC 487. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Issues related to political theory. Specific topics to be determined for
given semesters. Prerequisite: one intermediate-level course in field of
political theory.
PLSC 201. CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL ISSUES
Specific subject matter determined for particular semester. Open to students
not necessarily intending to major in political science who seek to broaden
their background in contemporary socio-political issues.
PLSC 281. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 341. WOMEN AND POLITICS
Role of women in politics in historical and theoretical context. Attitudes
of prominent political theorists toward role of females in political life.
Political cultural values as barriers to assumption by women of high political
office; changes in contemporary societies vis-à-vis role of women in politics.
Prerequisite: PLSC 111.
PLSC 361. APPLIED POLITICAL METHODOLOGY
Research in political science, different modes of analysis. Empirical
methods, hypothesis construction, theory building, data analysis, computer
applications. Prerequisite: one prior course in political science.
PLSC 381. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 384. SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLICY ANALYSIS
Specific topics to be determined for given semester. Prerequisite: one
introductory course in political science.
PLSC 391. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING COLLEGE POLITICAL SCIENCE var. cr.
Independent study through teaching in particular political science course.
Instructor directs students in preparation of syllabi, other course materials;
devising and reading examination; lecturing and/or leading discussion; academic
counseling; etc. May be repeated for total of no more than eight credits. Credit
may not be earned in conjunction with course in which student is currently
enrolled. Does not satisfy major or all-college requirements. Prerequisites:
consent of instructor and department. P/F only. Students must consult department
for detailed guidelines.
PLSC 392. PRACTICUM IN POLITICAL SCIENCE var. cr.
Combination of direct participation in some major political activity, such
as election campaign or service in government office, with relevant scholarly
analysis or research documentation from field experience. Prerequisites: junior
standing, three relevant political science courses and consent of instructor.
PLSC 394. ALBANY-WASHINGTON INTERNSHIP var. cr.
This course is the mechanism for transferring seminar components of Albany
and Washington internships to the department. The credits count toward the major
but may not be used to satisfy the departmental seminar requirement.
PLSC 395. INTERNSHIP RESEARCH PROJECT var. cr.
Exclusively for juniors and seniors engaged in internship under supervision
of member of department. Research completed in course of internship used as
basis for substantial paper or project on topic approved by faculty supervisor.
PLSC 396. COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH var. cr.
Exclusively for juniors and seniors who are working closely with a faculty
member on a collaborative research project.
PLSC 397. INDEPENDENT STUDY var. cr.
Tutorial study of specialized topics not offered in current curriculum.
Restricted to juniors and seniors with high standing in political science, with
consent of instructor.
PLSC 480. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
Intensive study of particular topics determined in advance. Prerequisites:
appropriate sequence of at least two previous political science courses.
PLSC 484. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN PUBLIC LAW
Subject matter varies from semester to semester. Specific topic to be
determined for given term. Prerequisite: one intermediate course of public law.
PLSC 488. SEMINAR IN SPECIAL TOPICS IN POLITICAL METHODOLOGY
Issues related to methodology, specific topics to be determined for given
semesters. Prerequisite: one intermediate-level course in methodology.
PLSC 496. HONORS SEMINAR 2 cr.
Emphasis on theoretical and methodological approaches to the discipline of
political science. Open to outstanding senior majors.
PLSC 498. HONORS INDEPENDENT RESEARCH PROJECT
Design and execution of an analytical research project under the supervision
of a faculty honors independent research committee. Corequisite: PLSC 496.
PLSC 499. HONORS THESIS 6 cr.
Preparation and defense of an honors thesis; normally this is an extension
of the research project undertaken in PLSC 498. Prerequisite: PLSC 496 and 498.
[ TOP ]
PLSC 500. RESEARCH METHODS AND STATISTICS I
Introduction to philosophy of science; structure and logic of experimental,
quasi-experimental and ex-post-facto research designs; statistics and data
analysis, including measures of central tendency and dispersion, inference and
tests of statistical significance, estimation of the degree and strength of
bivariate relationships and estimation of relationships when controlling other
variables.
PLSC 501. RESEARCH METHODS AND STATISTICS II
Continuation and elaboration of the topics covered in PLSC 500 with
particular emphasis on the general linear model, its extensions and related
advanced topics.
PLSC 600. SEMINAR IN ADVANCED STATISTICAL METHODS
Exploration of special advanced topics in political and policy analysis.
PLSC 523. INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS
Political systems, processes, policies of sub-national jurisdictions within
American federal system. Comparative as well as case-study approaches illuminate
variety of political practices and social problems of American states and
communities. Concentration on a) politics of American states, b) urban politics
and policies or c) community political processes.
PLSC 530. STRATEGIES FOR POLICY ANALYSIS
Introduction to benefit-cost analysis, decision-tree analysis,
implementation, comparative policy analysis, evaluation research and theories of
decision making.
PLSC 534. PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Concepts and issues of public organizations and their administration,
decision making, behavior patterns of public career officials, public planning
and budgeting, role of administration in political process and organizational
development.
PLSC 536. PUBLIC FINANCE
Introduction to modeling and problem solving from an economic perspective.
Analysis of types of taxes used in the U.S. and the major attributes and
consequences of each.
PLSC 537. PUBLIC PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION
Personnel function in government and non-profit agencies, including
recruitment, promotion, career development and leadership. Patronage and civil
service systems.
PLSC 540. PUBLIC BUDGETING
Principal components of budget system: policy formation, planning,
programming, legislative control, execution of state and local budgets. Federal
and state assistance, funding sources, urban-rural problems, pressure groups in
budget decision making. Budgetary policy and procedure in New York state,
current fiscal problems.
PLSC 541. ADMINISTRATIVE LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY
Legal procedures, doctrines, steps involved in bureaucratic formulation and
implementation of public policies. Case analysis method. Administrative decision
making, procedure and adjudication, attentive publics, administrative
discretion, secrecy, judicial review and intervention.
PLSC 620. SEMINAR IN AMERICAN POLITICS
Basic literature in American politics; various frameworks of analysis
currently in use in American politics research; various approaches to American
issues, institutions, processes.
PLSC 630. SEMINAR IN POLICY INSTITUTIONS
Study of decision-making institutions and their influence on the policy
process. Executive, legislatures, bureaucracy and courts. Limited to doctoral
students.
PLSC 631. SEMINAR IN ECONOMICS FOR POLICY ANALYSIS
Introduction to economic concepts and methods of analysis. Applications to
the study of politics and public policy.
PLSC 633. RESEARCH SEMINAR IN SELECTED TOPICS IN PUBLIC POLICY
Exploration of special interests of students and faculty arising from
advanced study of particular areas of public policy. Limited to doctoral
students. Topics vary; may be repeated for credit.
PLSC 638. RESEARCH SEMINAR IN
SELECTED TOPICS IN POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
Exploration of special interests of students and faculty arising from
advanced study of political and administrative institutions. Limited to doctoral
students. Topics vary; may be repeated for credit.
PLSC 640. SEMINAR IN COMPARATIVE POLICY ANALYSIS
Variations across national settings of means by which governmental policies
are planned, implemented, changed. Countries from several geographic regions.
Policy consequences of political change.
PLSC 650. SEMINAR IN WORLD POLITICS
Global political system of interaction among states, intergovernmental and
non-governmental agencies and sub-national actors. Persistence of independent
behavior of states and growth of interdependence. Impact of social and economic
forces. Problems of security, war, conflict resolution. International community
building. Relevant theories, interpretations, modes of analysis.
PLSC 652. SEMINAR IN MIDDLE EASTERN POLITICS
Political systems, processes, policies of states in the Middle East.
Problems of political and institutional organization, leadership, economic and
industrial programs, national goals and ideologies, political and social
stability and change.
PLSC 660. SEMINAR IN WORLD SYSTEMS ANALYSIS
Theory of systems and relevance of appropriate constructs for political
analysis; 19th- and 20th-century international systems; balance of power (19th
century) and systemic interactions in political, social and economic spheres
since World War II. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches, with empirical
evidence given precedence in analysis of contemporary systems.
PLSC 661. SEMINAR IN FOREIGN POLICY
Major issues, trends, processes, institutions of foreign policies of modern
national states. Linkage of foreign policy to domestic forces; strategies and
styles of decision making.
PLSC 663. SEMINAR IN SELECTED TOPICS IN COMPARATIVE INTERNATIONAL POLITICS
Exploration of special interests of students and faculty arising from
advanced study of cross-national and international political experience. Topics
vary; may be repeated for credit.
PLSC 668. SEMINAR IN WORLD POLITICAL ECONOMY
Major economic forces influencing world politics; relations between rich and
poor nations; impact on international behavior of institutions such as GATT,
IBRD, IFAD, IMF and UNCTAD, as well as multinational corporations.
PLSC 532. SOCIAL VALUES AND PUBLIC POLICY
Realities of policy formulation in relation to social values. Devising
standards for evaluation of public policy and administration; concept of
administrative responsibility and public interest; bureaucracy, democracy and
quality of public policy.
PLSC 671. SEMINAR IN STATE, ECONOMY AND SOCIETY
Liberal, Marxist and welfare state conceptions of relationships among state,
economy and society. Influence of political ideas on political action.
PLSC 675. SEMINAR IN POLITICS OF INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
Macropolitical organization and dynamics of industrial and post-industrial
society. Historical dimension of political action and public policy. Sources of
tension in contemporary industrial systems. Impact of differing patterns of
control over means of production.
PLSC 676. SEMINAR IN AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT AND PUBLIC POLICY
Liberal constitutionalism and political economy in relation to public
policy. Critics of liberal tradition.
PLSC 679. SEMINAR IN SELECTED TOPICS IN POLITICAL THEORY
Exploration of special topics in history and/or applications of political
theory in political science, arising from special interests of students and
faculty. Topics vary; may be repeated for credit.
PLSC 599. THESIS 1-12 cr.
PLSC 696. DOCTORAL RESEARCH SEMINAR
Capstone course; students prepare research paper, present it to the seminar,
receive advice and criticism, and rewrite and otherwise rework the paper. The
paper thereafter should be submitted for publication and used as part of the
student’s dissertation.
PLSC 697. INDEPENDENT STUDY 1-4 cr.
PLSC 698. PRE-DISSERTATION RESEARCH 1-9 cr./sem.
Independent reading and/or research in preparation for comprehensive
examinations for admission to PhD candidacy and/or preparation of dissertation
prospectus. Graded on S/U basis only.
PLSC 699. DISSERTATION 1-12 cr./sem.
Research for and preparation of the dissertation.
PLSC 700. CONTINUOUS REGISTRATION 1 cr./sem.
Required for maintenance of matriculated status in graduate program. No
credit toward graduate degree requirements.
PLSC 707. RESEARCH SKILLS 1-4 cr.
Development of research skills required within graduate programs. May not be
applied toward course credits for any graduate degree. Prerequisite: approval of
relevant graduate program directors or department chairs.
[ TOP ]