2024-25 Academic Catalog
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Department of Political Science

(College of Social and Behavioral Sciences)

www.uni.edu/polisci

The Department of Political Science offers the following programs:

Undergraduate Majors (B.A.)

Minors

Graduate Majors (M.P.P.)

Program Certificates

Bachelor of Arts Degree Programs

Political Communication Major

The Political Communication major requires a minimum of 120 total hours to graduate. This total includes UNIFI/General Education requirements and the following specified major requirements, plus electives to complete the minimum of 120 hours.

Required core
Communication and Media:
COMM 4211/5211Rhetoric and Civic Culture3
COMM 4216/5216Political Communication3
or POL AMER 4160/5160 Political Communication
COMM 4444/5444Communication, Community, and Change3
CM CORE 1010Mass Communication and Society3
Political Science:
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S. *3
POL AMER 3112Campaigns and Elections3
POL AMER 3150Public Opinion and Voting Behavior3
Methodology:
Select one of the following from Communication and Media/Political Science:3
Communication Research Methods *
Rhetorical Research Methods *
Analyzing Politics
Internship in Communication and Media/Political Science:3
Internship in Communication
Internship in Politics *
Electives (choose two courses from Communication and Media and two courses from Political Science from the following list):12
Communication and Media:
Argumentation and Debate *
Organizational Communication *
Freedom of Speech
Persuasion
Communication and Conflict Management *
Intercultural Communication
Voices from the Margin: Performance, Rhetoric, and Social Change
Digital Culture and Communication
Media and Power
Digital Media Law and Ethics
Global Media: (Topic)
Principles of Public Relations *
Political Science:
American State Politics
Community Politics
Congress: The First Branch *
Civil Rights and Liberties
Modern Presidency *
Political Parties and Interest Groups *
Citizen Participation and Civic Engagement
Political Psychology
Human Rights
International Law
Total Hours39
*

*Choice of courses and subsequent prerequisites may increase the length of this program.  These courses have additional prerequisites as follows:

POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition: Domestic UNIFI requirement.

CM CORE 2020, COMM 2257, and COMM 3055 have prerequisite of COMM 1000. COMM 1000 satisfies the Oral Communication UNIFI requirement.

POL GEN 3181 has prerequisites of POL GEN 2010; 15 hours of Political Science, Political Communication, or Public Administration major.

COMM 4023/5023 has prerequisite of CM CORE 2020 but will be waived for Political Communication majors.

COMM 4333/5333 has a prerequisite of COMM 2344.

COMM DM 4612/5612 has prerequisite of CM CORE 2020 or consent of instructor.

COMM DM 4644/5644 has prerequisite of CM CORE 1010.

COMM PR 1811 has prerequisites of COMM 1000 and ENGLISH 1005. COMM 1000 satisfies the Oral Communication UNIFI requirement.

POL AMER 3134, POL AMER 3151, and POL AMER 3166 have prerequisite of POL AMER 1014. POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition: Domestic UNIFI requirement.
 

Political Science Major-Liberal Arts

The Political Science-Liberal Arts major requires a minimum of 120 total hours to graduate. This total includes UNIFI/General Education requirements and the following specified major requirements, plus electives to complete the minimum of 120 hours.

Required
Political Science:
POL GEN 2010Analyzing Politics3
POL THRY 1050Introduction to Political Theory: Freedom, Justice and Power3
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S. *3
POL INTL 1024International Relations *3
POL COMP 1040Comparative Politics3
Students must take at least one upper-level course in each of the four sub-fields of political science:
Political Theory [POL THRY 3xxx/4xxx]3
American Politics [POL AMER 3xxx/4xxx]3
International Relations (POL INTL 3xxx/4xxx]3
Comparative Politics [POL COMP 3xxx/4xxx]3
Students must take one Senior Seminar in Political Science:
POL GEN 3184Senior Seminar in Political Science3
Electives in political science (POL AMER, POL COMP, POL GEN, POL INTL, POL THRY)9
Total Hours39

Note: Not more than 9 semester hours of political science taken within the International Affairs minor or Legal Studies minor may also be counted for credit on this major.

*

 POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement. POL INTL 1024 satisfies the Human Condition (Global) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

Public Administration Major

The Public Administration major requires a minimum of 120 total hours to graduate. This total includes UNIFI/General Education requirements and the following specified major requirements, plus electives to complete the minimum of 120 hours.

Students may want to consider pairing this major with various certificates available, such as the Certificate in State and Local Government, Certificate in Public Personnel and Human Resources, and Nonprofit Management Certificate.

Required:
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S.3
POL AMER 1048Introduction to Public Administration3
POL AMER 3153Leadership and Management in Public Service3
POL AMER 3172Public Budgeting3
POL AMER 4173Politics and Public Policy3
POL AMER 4188/5188Seminar in Public Administration3
POL GEN 2010Analyzing Politics3
POL GEN 3111Politics and Statistics3
or SOC SCI 2020 Social Sciences Statistics
POL GEN 3181Internship in Politics3-8
Electives (9 hours from the following)9
Political Science:
American State Politics
Campaigns and Elections
Community Politics
Modern Presidency
Management of Public Human Resources *
Management and Human Resources in Recreation, Tourism and Nonprofit Leadership
Iowa Politics
Topics in Public Policy
Economics:
Principles of Macroeconomics
Principles of Microeconomics *
Public Finance *
Cost-Benefit Analysis *
Urban and Regional Economics *
Total Hours36-41

 Note: Not more than 12 semester hours of political science taken for the Public Administration major can also be counted toward a Political Science major.

*

POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

ECON 3221/5221, ECON 3229/5229,and ECON 3253/5253 have prerequisites of ECON 1041 and ECON 1051ECON 1041 satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning UNIFI/General Education requirement.

ECON 1051 has prerequisite of ECON 1041.

POL AMER 3174 has prerequisites of POL AMER 1014 or POL AMER 1048.

Minors

American Government for Teachers Minor

This minor prepares future social studies teachers to teach American government and politics. Nine hours of the minor will count toward American Government requirements in the Social Science Teaching Plan B major. NOTE: This minor is only available to Social Science Teaching majors, and does not lead to an endorsement.

Required:
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S.3
Electives (choose five of the following):15
American State Politics
Campaigns and Elections
Community Politics
Congress: The First Branch
Constitutional Law
Judicial Politics and Policy-making
Public Opinion and Voting Behavior
Modern Presidency
Political Parties and Interest Groups
Iowa Politics
United States Foreign Policy
Total Hours18

International Affairs Minor-Liberal Arts

The International Affairs minor is composed of 18 hours in political science and related disciplines. It allows students to explore their interests in politics around the globe and helps prepare them to live and work in an increasingly interconnected world. The requirements are as follows:

Required
Political Science:
POL INTL 1024International Relations *3
POL COMP 1040Comparative Politics3
Select at least two of the following:6
Political Science:
Unconventional Warfare
Nationalism
Politics of Nonviolence
International Security
Human Rights
United States Foreign Policy
International Law
International Organizations
Politics of the Global Economy
Politics of International Development
Select two of the following, any additional electives from the courses listed above, or those listed below: **6
Communication:
Intercultural Communication
Journalism:
Global Media: (Topic)
French:
Business French ^
The World of French Business ^
Special Topics in Language and Culture ^
Spanish:
Latin American Culture and Civilization ^
Culture and Civilization of Spain ^
Economics: ^
Economic Development ^
History:
Europe from World War I to the Present
History of Imperial Russia
History of Soviet Russia
Great Power Diplomacy from the Congress of Vienna to the Present
Military History from Napoleon to the Present
Modern Latin American History
Modern African History
Mughals and Marauders; Merchants and Mahatmas: A History of South Asia since 1526 CE
Modern Chinese History
Geography:
Regional Geography: (Variable Topic)
Sociology/Anthropology:
Language and Culture ^
Total hours ***18
*

 POL INTL 1024 satisfies the Human Condition (Global) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

**

This requirement may also be met by an internship approved by the Department of Political Science. Furthermore, students who have successfully completed four semesters at the college level of any foreign language, with at least a 2.00 GPA, or demonstrate an equivalent competency level can apply three credit hours toward the fulfillment of this requirement.

***

 No more than 9 hours of political science for this minor can also be counted toward a major in political science.

^

These courses have additional prerequisites as follows:

COMM DM 4644/5644 has prerequisite of CM CORE 1010.

FREN 3011/5011FREN 4014/5014, and FREN 4021/5021 have prerequisite of FREN 3001/5001.

SPAN 3020 and SPAN 3023 have prerequisite of SPAN 3001 or SPAN 3050/5050.

ECON 1041 and ECON 1051 are prerequisites to all 100/2000/3000/4000-level economics courses. 

ANTH 3001 has prerequisite of PSYCH 1001 or SOC 1000 or ANTH 1002SOC 1000 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement. ANTH 1002 satisfies the Human Condition (Global) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

Note: Choice of courses and subsequent course prerequisites may increase the length of this program.

Legal Studies Minor

The Legal Studies minor encourages students to study legal institutions, norms and traditions and to analyze how they interact with society, culture, economics, politics and policy. The program equips students with the ability to comprehend and critically evaluate written arguments, to make one’s own arguments and support them with evidence and logical reasoning, and to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. 

Required:
PHIL 3370Philosophy of Law3
POL AMER 2147Law, Politics, and Society3
Electives: choose one course from each of the following groups, plus two additional courses from any of the groups:15
Elective Group 1: Foundation of Law and the American Legal System
Law and Literature
American Colonial History
Kings, Heretics, Witches, and Revolutionaries: England to 1688
Elementary Logic
Political Philosophy
Constitutional Law
Elective Group 2: Rights, Liberties and Justice
Freedom of Speech
Digital Media Law and Ethics
Criminal Court System
Advanced Criminal Procedure
Civil Rights and Liberties
Religion and Law
Elective Group 3: Law, Politics and Society
Law and Economics
Issues in Family Policy
Business Law
Employment and Labor Law
Judicial Politics and Policy-making
International Law
Psychology and Law
Justice and the Good Life: Philosophical Perspectives
Total Hours21

Note:   Choice of courses and subsequent course prerequisites may increase the length of this program.

Note: Not more than nine (9) semester hours of political science for this minor can count toward a major in Political Science.

Political Science Minor-Liberal Arts

Required
Political Science:
POL GEN 2010Analyzing Politics3
POL THRY 1050Introduction to Political Theory: Freedom, Justice and Power3
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S. *3
POL INTL 1024International Relations *3
POL COMP 1040Comparative Politics3
Electives in political science (POL AMER, POL COMP, POL GEN, POL INTL, POL THRY)3
Total Hours18
*

POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement. POL INTL 1024 satisfies the Human Condition (Global) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

Note: Not more than 9 semester hours of political science taken within the International Affairs minor or Legal Studies minor may also be counted for credit on a political science major or minor.

Public Administration Minor

Required:
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S.3
POL AMER 1048Introduction to Public Administration3
POL AMER 3153Leadership and Management in Public Service3
POL AMER 3172Public Budgeting3
POL AMER 4173Politics and Public Policy3
POL GEN 3111Politics and Statistics3
or SOC SCI 2020 Social Sciences Statistics
Select One of the Following:3
American State Politics
Community Politics
Iowa Politics
Total Hours21

Not more than nine (9) semester hours of political science for this minor can count toward a major in Political Science.

*

POL AMER 1014 satisfies Category 5B of the Liberal Arts Core and the Human Condition: Domestic UNIFI requirement.

Master of Public Policy Degree Program

The mission of the University of Northern Iowa’s Master of Public Policy (MPP) program is to enhance the public service values of emerging and mid-career public service professionals and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze, develop, and evaluate public policy and affairs at all levels of government. We expect our graduates to: value accountability and transparency as integral to responsible stewardship of the public trust; be able to assess the ethical implications of policy decisions and incorporate those considerations into their professional work; be able to differentiate between efficiency and effectiveness in evaluating policy alternatives; and demonstrate respect, equity and fairness in their dealings with fellow public servants and diverse communities.

The MPP program is an online professional interdisciplinary degree program providing specialized and advanced training for students wishing to assume roles as policy analysts, principally in the governmental and nonprofit sectors of society. Courses in this program are offered using a combination of Zoom, an interactive video conferencing system, on Tuesday evenings and online via eLearning, a Blackboard learning management system. Courses meeting in the fall and spring semesters are taught in eight-week modules and summer courses will be six weeks in length. The program is designed to be completed in two years (eight semesters and two summers).

Students interested in this program submit a completed Application for Admission to Graduate Study. Complete undergraduate transcripts are required for admission review, as are a personal statement resume, and two letters of recommendation. The Graduate Record Examination (General Test) is not required for admission to the program. Admission to the MPP program is competitive. For more information about the program, visit https://continuinged.uni.edu/distance/public-policy or email the Program Coordinator, Professor Chris Larimer at christopher.larimer@uni.edu.

Only graduate courses (course numbers 5000 or above) will apply to a graduate degree, even if the undergraduate course number (4999 or less) is listed. No exceptions will be made.

The M.P.P. is available on the non-thesis option only, and requires 37 semester hours. A minimum of 13 hours of 6000-level course work is required. As part of PUBPOL 6299, students must defend their research to the instructor and reader.

Required
Public Policy:
PUBPOL 6260Policy Analysis: Methods and Approaches3
PUBPOL 6204Program Evaluation in Public Policy3
PUBPOL 6275Quantitative Methods for Politics and Policy3
PUBPOL 6230Ethics in Public Policy3
PUBPOL 6276Advanced Methods for Public Policy3
PUBPOL 6280Capstone: Policy Practicum3
PUBPOL 6285Readings in Public Policy1
PUBPOL 6299 Research3
Economics:
POL AMER 5171Public Budgeting and Financial Management3
or ECON 3221/5221 Public Finance
Political Science:
POL AMER 5154Public Service Leadership and Management3
POL AMER 4176/5176Topics in Public Policy (enroll 2 times)6
Internship:
PUBPOL 6281Internship in Public Policy3
Total hours37
 

Topics in Public Policy explores the latest developments in the field of public policy research. Ongoing policy issues may be used as examples to illustrate theoretical developments or to introduce applications of course material. Must be repeated two times under different topics.

Program Certificates

The University of Northern Iowa makes available, in addition to traditional programs, the opportunity for students to earn program certificates. Program certificates provide an alternative to programs leading to a degree, a major, or a minor; they certify that an individual has completed a program approved by the university. For information on the following program certificates, contact the Department of Political Science or the Office of the Registrar, which serves as the centralized registry.

Certificate in International Peace and Security

The Certificate in International Peace and Security is designed to provide a specialized and in-depth knowledge of theories, concepts and evidence about issues of conflict and peace in world politics. Students will develop analytical and practical skills on matters of diplomacy and conflict resolution, coupled with a breadth of understanding about contemporary issues, about the different types and forms of international violence that exist, as well as the causes of and solutions to such conflict.

If your career goals are in foreign service, public or private sector conflict mediation, international business and risk assessment, homeland security or military service, this certificate program will be an invaluable benefit to your education. Any student seeking advanced study in international security, or who wishes to foster peace and understand war, is eligible and will find this intensive program rewarding.

Required
International Relations core:
POL INTL 1024International Relations *3
POL INTL 3120International Security3
Electives
Select a minimum of 9 hours from the following:9
Communication:
Intercultural Communication
International Relations:
United States Foreign Policy
International Law
International Organizations
Comparative Politics:
Unconventional Warfare
Politics of Nonviolence
History:
Great Power Diplomacy from the Congress of Vienna to the Present
Military History from Napoleon to the Present
Sociology:
Conflict Resolution
Total Hours15
*

POL INTL 1024 satisfies the Human Condition (Global) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

Certificate in Public Personnel & Human Resources

The Certificate in Public Personnel and Human Resources is designed to provide a specific set of skills to students who would like to pursue careers in public settings (federal, state, or local government) or non-profit agencies related to the management of personnel and human resources.  This certificate especially compliments the Public Administration major, but is also suitable for students who want to work in public agencies such as school administration, city management, public health, social services, or public safety.

Required:
Political Science:
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S.3
POL AMER 1048Introduction to Public Administration3
POL AMER 3174Management of Public Human Resources3
Psychology:
PSYCH 1001Introduction to Psychology3
PSYCH 3304Work Psychology: Well-Being3
Electives (select a minimum of 3 hours from the following):3
Recreation, Tourism and Nonprofit Leadership:
Human Resource Development for Recreation, Tourism and Nonprofit Leadership
Management:
Organizational Behavior
Political Science:
Politics and Public Policy
Psychology:
Work Psychology: Performance
Social Work:
Diversity and Difference *
Total Hours18
*

 * These courses have additional prerequisites as follows:

SW 4163 has a prerequisite of SOC 1000SOC 1000 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

**

POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

Certificate in State and Local Government

The Certificate in State and Local Government is designed to provide a specific set of skills to any student at UNI looking to work in state or local government. This certificate blends theoretical and practical knowledge to provide the flexibility to solve some of the problems facing these governments.

If your career goals include public finance, economic development, community development and planning, or state and local politics, a Certificate in State and Local Government will help link your education to your career.

A Certificate in State and Local Government will also help students who want to work in public agencies such as school administration, city management, public health, social services, or public safety.

Required
American Politics:
POL AMER 1014Power & Politics in the U.S. *3
POL AMER 2131American State Politics3
POL AMER 3132Community Politics3
POL AMER 4130/5130Iowa Politics3
Electives
Select minimum 3 hours from the following:3
Economics:
Urban and Regional Economics *
Geography:
Climate Action Planning
American Politics:
Leadership and Management in Public Service
Public Budgeting *
Politics and Public Policy *
Criminology:
Crime and Public Policy *
Total Hours15
*

These courses have additional prerequisites are as follows:

POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

ECON 3253/5253 has prerequisites of ECON 1041 and ECON 1051, or consent of instructor. ECON 1041 satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning UNIFI/General Education requirement.

POL AMER 3172 and POL AMER 4173 have prerequisites of POL AMER 1014 and POL AMER 1048. POL AMER 1014 satisfies the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

CRIM 4253 has prerequisites of SOC 1000 and CRIM 2022. SOC 1000 will satisfy the Human Condition (Domestic) UNIFI/General Education requirement.

Political Communication, B.A.

  1. Critical thinking—concepts & theories: Students will be able to critically evaluate political science and communications concepts and theories to help explain and investigate political communications phenomena (such as elite rhetoric, persuasion, political campaigns, political journalism).
  2. Critical thinking—social science and humanistic approaches: Students will be able to generate hypotheses / theses to answer research questions and/or analyze political communication from a humanistic perspective
  3. Critical thinking—evidence: Students will be able to analyze discipline‐appropriate evidence and critically evaluate it to support claims / test hypotheses.
  4. Critical thinking—normative reasoning: Students will be able to develop persuasive arguments and reasoned judgments about political matters by logically applying normative principles.
  5. Written communication skills: Students will demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively through their written work.
  6. Oral communication skills: Students demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively through oral presentations.

Political Science-Liberal Arts, B.A.

  1. Demonstrate effective written communication skills, (including clear and concise wording, and citing evidence appropriately in various contexts)
  2. Demonstrate effective oral communication skills, (including organized, professional presentations as appropriate in various contexts)
  3. Demonstrate the ability to think analytically about issues in Political Science by constructing arguments using evidence and analysis
  4. Apply the scientific method to study empirical questions in Political Science
  5. Employ information literacy skills to find and evaluate the reliability and relevance of information related to political issues
  6. Demonstrate data literacy skills by interacting with scientific literature and interpreting findings
  7. Demonstrate competencies required of citizens in a democracy, including an understanding of concepts such as freedom, equality, rights, justice, and diversity.

Public Administration, B.A.

  1. To lead and manage in the public interest
  2. To participate in, and contribute to, the policy process
  3. To analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems and make evidence-informed decisions in a complex and dynamic environment
  4. To articulate, apply, and advance a public service perspective
  5. To communicate and interact productively and in culturally responsive ways with a diverse and changing workforce and society at large

Master of Public Policy

  1. To lead and manage in public governance

        1.1 Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior in public service settings

        1.2 Ability to lead and collaborate in group settings

        1.3 Apply ethical reasoning in evaluation of policy and in communication with stakeholders

   2.  To participate in and contribute to the policy process

        2.1 Describe and synthesize public policy concepts and use them to analyze real policy problems

        2.2 Use tools, methods of policy analysis to analyze policy problems

  3.  To analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems and make evidence-informed decisions in a complex and dynamic environment

       3.1 Describe the public budgeting process and be able to read and analyze budgets of public organizations

       3.2 Design quantitative and qualitative research projects, as appropriate to policy problems, that analyze data and draw conclusions

  4.  To articulate, apply, and advance a public service perspective

       4.1 Critically reflect upon and articulate the importance of respect, equity, and fairness in dealing with fellow servants and diverse citizenry

       4.2 Critically reflect upon the importance of transparency and accountability as integral to responsible stewardship of the public trust

  5.  To communicate and interact productively and in culturally responsive ways with a diverse and changing workforce and society at large

       5.1 Critically reflect upon the role of public servants in meeting the needs of a diverse citizenry

       5.2 Proficiency in speaking, interacting in diverse public and professional settings

       5.3 Proficiency in communicating results of policy analysis in written form

Political Communication, B.A.

This major is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Communication Studies and the Department of Political Science. This is a sample plan of study with a suggested sequencing of classes for the major.  University electives may be applied to earn additional academic majors, minors, or certificates.  Students should regularly meet with their academic advisor to plan their specific semester schedule to include UNIFI/General Education program and/or university elective hours required.

Plan of Study Grid
Freshman
FallHour
POL AMER 1014 Power & Politics in the U.S. 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Spring
CM CORE 1010 Mass Communication and Society 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Sophomore
Fall
POL GEN 2010 or CM CORE 2020 or COMM 4023 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Spring
Political Communication elective/Communication & Media course 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Junior
Fall
POL AMER 4160/5160 Political Communication (or COMM 4216) 3
POL AMER 3112 Campaigns and Elections (offered even Falls only) 3
COMM 4444/5444 Communication, Community, and Change 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 6
 Hours15
Spring
COMM 4211/5211 Rhetoric and Civic Culture 3
POL AMER 3150 Public Opinion and Voting Behavior 3
Political Communication elective/Political Science elective 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 6
 Hours15
Senior
Fall
COMM 3900 Internship in Communication or POL GEN 3181 Internship in Politics 3
Political Communication elective/Communication & Media course 3
Political Communication elective/Political Science course 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 6
 Hours15
Spring
Political Communication elective/Communication & Media course 3
Political Communication elective/Political Science course 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
 Total Hours120

Political Science-Liberal Arts, B.A.

This is a sample plan of study with a suggested sequencing of classes for the major.  University electives may be applied to earn additional academic majors, minors, or certificates.  Students should regularly meet with their academic advisor to plan their specific semester schedule to include UNIFI/General Education program and/or university elective hours required.

Plan of Study Grid
Freshman
FallHour
POL AMER 1014 Power & Politics in the U.S. 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Spring
POL INTL 1024 International Relations 3
POL THRY 1050 Introduction to Political Theory: Freedom, Justice and Power 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Sophomore
Fall
POL COMP 1040 Comparative Politics 3
POL GEN 2010 Analyzing Politics 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Spring
American Politics course (POL AMER 3xxxx/4xxxx) 3
International Relations course (POL INTL 3xxx/4xxx) 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Junior
Fall
Comparative Politics Requirement (POL COMP 3xxx/4xxx) 3
Political Theory course (POL THRY 3xxx/4xxx) 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Spring
Political Science Electives 6
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Senior
Fall
Political Science Elective 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Spring
POL GEN 3184 Senior Seminar in Political Science 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
 Total Hours120

Public Administration, B.A.

This is a sample plan of study with a suggested sequencing of classes for the major.  University electives may be applied to earn additional academic majors, minors, or certificates.  Students should regularly meet with their academic advisor to plan their specific semester schedule to include UNIFI/General Education program and/or university elective hours required.

Plan of Study Grid
Freshman
FallHour
POL AMER 1014 Power & Politics in the U.S. 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Spring
POL AMER 1048 Introduction to Public Administration 3
SOC SCI 2020 Social Sciences Statistics 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Sophomore
Fall
POL GEN 2010 Analyzing Politics 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
Spring
POL AMER 3172 Public Budgeting 3
Public Administration elective 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Junior
Fall
POL AMER 4173 Politics and Public Policy 3
Public Administration elective 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Spring
POL GEN 3181 Internship in Politics 8
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 7
 Hours15
Senior
Fall
POL AMER 3153 Leadership and Management in Public Service 3
Public Administration Elective 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 9
 Hours15
Spring
POL AMER 4188/5188 Seminar in Public Administration 3
UNIFI/General Education or University Electives 12
 Hours15
 Total Hours120

Political Theory Courses

POL THRY 1050. Introduction to Political Theory: Freedom, Justice and Power — 3 hrs.

A good politics is guided by ideals such as freedom and justice. But what do those words mean? How does power operate--either to promote or to prevent the achievement of freedom and justice for all people? Readings range from the ancient world to the contemporary, including thinkers such as Socrates, J.S. Mill, Martin Luther King Jr., and bell hooks. (Fall and Spring)

POL THRY 3129. American Political Thought — 3 hrs.

Political ideals have shaped the political institutions, practices, and culture of the U.S., even though our ideals of democracy and freedom have conflicted with realities of exclusion and slavery, and the "American Dream" has at times been undermined by inequality of opportunity. This course explores these tensions, analyzing works of foundational thinkers such as Madison and Jefferson, as well as thinkers aiming to deepen our democracy in the centuries since the founding. (Variable)

POL THRY 3160. Classical Political Theory — 3 hrs.

The nature of justice, arguments for and against democracy, the foundations of political knowledge, and the nature of political communities, as understood by the thinkers of classical Greece. (Variable)

POL THRY 3161. Modern Political Theory — 3 hrs.

Western political thought from Machiavelli to Nietzsche, including the philosophical foundations for the American system of government (liberal and civic republican thought). (Variable)

POL THRY 3162. Power: Political Theories & Applications — 3 hrs.

This course explores contemporary theories of power and their relationships to political events and movements of the 20th and 21st centuries. Students will complete projects to build their familiarity with a particular set of theories and the ways in which those theories respond to or inspire social and political events - from government-sponsored injustices to liberation movements. This course will enable students to develop their capacities for making reasoned judgments about politics and using theory as a tool to develop political meanings that go beyond ideology. (Variable)

Politics, American Courses

POL AMER 1014. Power & Politics in the U.S. — 3 hrs.

Politics is about the exercise of power. This course examines the basic structure, organization, and institutional powers of American government. We will also examine how diverse citizens of the U.S. are linked to government through such things as political parties, interest groups, and elections. (Fall and Spring)

POL AMER 1048. Introduction to Public Administration — 3 hrs.

Most government employees who are making decisions, running programs and spending taxpayer money are not elected officials, but public servants. The purpose of this course is to examine the role of these bureaucrats in American government by developing an understanding of the history of the system, the tension between expertise and democracy, and the related issues that affect the American people and others around the globe. (Fall and Spring)

POL AMER 2131. American State Politics — 3 hrs.

Analysis of organization, functions, and operation of state and local governments. (Fall)

POL AMER 2147. Law, Politics, and Society — 3 hrs.

Law structures our personal, business and civic lives, and when courts resolve disputes about the law their decisions affect our politics and society. This course examines how the legal system works and explores its social and political effects. Includes discussion of topics such as racial and socioeconomic barriers to access to justice, tort reform, policing strategies, and crime policy. (Spring)

POL AMER 3112. Campaigns and Elections — 3 hrs.

Systematic examination of structure and functions of modern electoral campaigns for national, state, and local offices. (Even Falls)

POL AMER 3132. Community Politics — 3 hrs.

Introduction to structure, functions, and policies of American local government in context of economic, social, and intergovernmental forces. (Variable)

POL AMER 3134. Congress: The First Branch — 3 hrs.

Congress is the first branch, by virtue of being specified in Article I of the Constitution. We will think critically about the role of Congress in the American system of government, how we get it, what it does, and what it does not do. Students will assess evidence of whether Congress can properly be viewed as broken, or not. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1014. (Odd Falls)

POL AMER 3141. Constitutional Law — 3 hrs.

Analysis of U.S. Supreme Court decisions and changes in doctrine over time and the political forces affecting these changes. Emphasis on the powers and constraints of the federal government, separation of powers, and federalism. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1014 or POL AMER 2147 or POL AMER 3146. (Fall)

POL AMER 3144. Civil Rights and Liberties — 3 hrs.

Examines the Supreme Court's role in establishing and protecting individual rights and liberties from government intrusion. Emphasis on the 14th Amendment of the Constitution. Includes issues of free speech, freedom of religion, discrimination, and privacy. (Spring)

POL AMER 3146. Judicial Politics and Policy-making — 3 hrs.

Theoretical and empirical examination of the role of appellate courts, especially the U.S. Supreme Court, within the American political system. Examination of theories of judicial decision making, the influence of politics on law and judges, and the impact of court decisions on public policy. (Even Falls)

POL AMER 3150. Public Opinion and Voting Behavior — 3 hrs.

Theoretical and empirical analyses of public opinion, political attitudes, political socialization, as well as voting behavior and political participation. (Spring)

POL AMER 3151. Modern Presidency — 3 hrs.

Examination of constitutional, electoral, administrative, and political aspects of the modern American presidency as they have evolved from FDR to the present. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1014. (Spring)

POL AMER 3153. Leadership and Management in Public Service — 3 hrs.

This course provides students the opportunity to study the political nature, characteristics and operation of American public organizations. You will analyze the internal and external factors that explain how public organizations operate, including theories and models of leadership and internal dynamics of public organizations and their role in the American political system. (Fall)

POL AMER 3166. Political Parties and Interest Groups — 3 hrs.

The history and evolution of political parties and interest groups in the American political system with a focus on their impact on the policy process. This course emphasizes how changes in the political environment including the rise of Super PACs, increased polarization and the use of social media for political mobilization are influencing the role each plays in elections and policy adoption. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1014. (Variable)

POL AMER 3172. Public Budgeting — 3 hrs.

Historical development of current budgeting practices; politics of budgetary process at federal, state, and local levels; current methods of budgeting for public agencies, focusing on integration of budgeting into program planning. (Spring)

POL AMER 3174. Management of Public Human Resources — 3 hrs.

Development of current government personnel practices; contemporary issues in personnel administration; techniques of job analysis; recruitment and selection of employees; and problems of supervision and evaluation. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1014; POL AMER 1048. (Variable)

POL AMER 4130/5130. Iowa Politics — 3 hrs.

Emphasis placed on the origins of Iowa's governmental structure, the three branches of government, and its unique role in presidential politics. Will examine some of the perennial issues facing the state. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Spring)

POL AMER 4142/5142. Problems in Juvenile and Family Law — 3 hrs.

Aspects of juvenile and family law; how legislature and courts have developed juvenile and family law, including marriage and divorce, adoption, and competency of minors. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Fall and Spring)

POL AMER 4143/5143. Citizen Participation and Civic Engagement — 3 hrs.

Introduces the key issues and problems affecting citizen participation and engagement at the community and national levels. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Variable)

POL AMER 4160/5160. Political Communication — 3 hrs.

Study of the elements of national and/or local political communication, including the rhetoric of political campaigns, and/or the rhetoric of elected officials. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Same as COMM 4216/5216) (Fall)

POL AMER 4173. Politics and Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Can we predict public policy? The short answer is "no." Public policies are the result of human decisions, a process which is not always rational. This course will examine why by focusing on biases in human decision making and how such biases can help improve our understanding of the policy process. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1014; POL AMER 1048; junior standing. (Fall)

POL AMER 4176/5176. Topics in Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Explores the latest developments in the field of public policy research. Ongoing policy issues may be used as examples to illustrate theoretical developments or to introduce applications of course material. May be repeated under different topics. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Variable)

POL AMER 4177/5177. Political Psychology — 3 hrs.

Explores the connections between psychology and political phenomena, including leadership, decision making, intergroup relations, and persuasion. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Variable)

POL AMER 4188/5188. Seminar in Public Administration — 3 hrs.

Advanced topics in public administration, such as essential and nonessential service delivery, fiscal administration, and community development. Introduces students to issues not covered in other public administration courses. Prerequisite(s): POL AMER 1048; junior standing. (Spring)

POL AMER 5154. Public Service Leadership and Management — 3 hrs.

This course focuses on the theories and practice of leadership and management in the public and nonprofit sectors. Particular attention will be paid to the history behind the theories and concepts used in the analysis and discussion of leadership and management to understand their development, to what degree they may be applicable to other settings, and their strengths and weaknesses. The course will enable students to understand variations in different organizational settings, alternative bases of authority, diverse communication styles, as well as the exercise of leadership and its connection with management. (Variable)

POL AMER 5171. Public Budgeting and Financial Management — 3 hrs.

This course provides students the opportunity to study the local budgetary process and to explore with the following topics: budget document and budget process; the budget cycle; operating and capital budget; evolution of budget; the balanced budget; functions of the budget office; planning, adopting, implementing and controlling the budget; performance measures for public budgeting and budgeting for capital improvements. (Variable)

Politics, Comparative Courses

POL COMP 1040. Comparative Politics — 3 hrs.

Examination of theory, methods, and problems of comparative politics with emphasis on cross-regional analysis. Use of case studies to look at such issues as political culture, parties, participation, dictatorship and democracy, economic policies and class, and racial, ethnic or religious conflict. (Fall and Spring)

POL COMP 1042. Becoming Global Citizens — 3 hrs.

A responsibility of citizens in democracies is to be politically active. How can we be politically active as citizens of the world? Without global elections, we have to find other ways of influencing the key social issues of our time. This class helps students think about how to be politically active on the most important global issues. (Variable)

POL COMP 3121. Unconventional Warfare — 3 hrs.

Focus on terrorism, insurgency, and guerrilla warfare. Examination of theoretical, practical, and policy issues related to the law, ethics, motivations, conduct, and resolution of conflict between unequal and unlike groups. (Variable)

POL COMP 3123. Nationalism — 3 hrs.

Analysis of causes, forms, and consequences of nationalist movements. Consideration of experiences of nation-states and multi-national states. Evaluation of major theoretical approaches to study of nationalist movements and application to several specific cases. (Variable)

POL COMP 3125. Politics of Nonviolence — 3 hrs.

Analyzes theories and concrete examples of nonviolence in politics. Examines nonviolent power as a part of daily politics in most political systems and as a component of many successful movements for political change. (Variable)

POL COMP 3135. Politics in Europe — 3 hrs.

Examination of the development of European political institutions, issues, and policies. Social democracy, the European Union, and challenges to democracy are addressed. (Variable)

POL COMP 3162. Politics of East Asia — 3 hrs.

Comparative analysis of major East Asian countries; examination of state and nation-building processes, political institutions, and processes and policies, with emphasis on China and Japan. (Variable)

POL COMP 3164. Russian Politics — 3 hrs.

Analysis of regimes and regime changes in Russia and Eurasia generally. Examination of institutions, contemporary issues, and policies in comparative context. (Variable)

POL COMP 3165. African Politics — 3 hrs.

Examination of African politics from a political economy perspective. (Variable)

POL COMP 3167. Latin American Politics — 3 hrs.

Analysis of democracy, authoritarianism, economic development, and social movements in the region. Emphasis on Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, and Cuba. Examination of influence of U.S. hegemony and the prospects for economic integration. (Variable)

Politics, General Courses

POL GEN 1020. Political Problems in the U.S.: (topic) — 3 hrs.

This course addresses topical political problems in the U.S. with a focus on problems related to human differences and diversity. Examples of topics may include wealth and income inequality, inequities in the criminal justice system, disparities in education policy, or the partisan divide. As part of addressing these problems, the course also covers different theoretical perspectives for thinking about politics, and supports students in developing skills for critically assessing information sources. Offered on specific topics listed in the Schedule of Classes. May not be repeated on different topics. (Fall and Spring)

POL GEN 1041. Global Challenges: (Topic) — 3 hrs.

This course will help students investigate the effect of politics and power by studying how people around the world respond to political problems. Students will learn about political science concepts related to government rules and institutions, political behavior and social movements, public policy, ideas and ideology, or others and apply them to current political problems that people are wrestling with around the world. May not be repeated on different topics. (Fall and Spring)

POL GEN 1060. B.S. Detection — 3 hrs.

This course seeks to give students the tools to understand what is happening in the world and decide what they should do about it. It is not about what to think, but about how to think. We often talk about critical thinking but what, exactly, does that mean? This course will help students learn to slow down and critically analyze information to help them improve their understanding of current events and develop the habits of mind that contribute to a life of active citizenship. (Fall)

POL GEN 2010. Analyzing Politics — 3 hrs.

Political issues can be divisive, but it is necessary to develop the skills and habits of rigorous analysis in order to understand the political phenomena around us. Students will explore various approaches to the scientific study of politics. (Fall and Spring)

POL GEN 3111. Politics and Statistics — 3 hrs.

Political science is, by definition, a science and as such is based on empirical research. The purpose of this course is to give students the necessary tools to study politics using quantitative methodology. Emphasis will be placed on the use of quantitative estimation techniques commonly used by political scientists. (Fall)

POL GEN 3181. Internship in Politics — 3-8 hrs.

Student serves as intern with government official or in public or private agency: (1) Federal; (2) State; (3) Local; (4) Intergovernmental; (5) Legal; (6) Interest Group; (7) International; and (8) Electoral. Prerequisite(s): POL GEN 2010; 15 hours of political science; Political Science, Political Communication, or Public Administration major; junior standing and consent of department. (Fall, Spring, Summer)

POL GEN 3184. Senior Seminar in Political Science — 3 hrs.

Examination of specific topics through application of theories and methods of political science analysis. Research papers required. Prerequisite(s): 24 credit hours of Political Science. (Fall and Spring)

POL GEN 4175/5175. Women in Politics — 3 hrs.

Theoretical, historical, and empirical studies of the role of women as political actors, policy issues affecting women, and the role of gender in shaping political attitudes and perceptions, with particular emphasis on the U.S. experience. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. (Variable)

POL GEN 4189/5189. Readings in Political Science — 1-3 hrs.

May be repeated only with consent of department. Prerequisite(s): 12 hours in political science; junior standing; consent of department. (Fall, Spring, Summer)

POL GEN 4198. Independent Study.

(Fall, Spring, Summer)

Politics, International Courses

POL INTL 1024. International Relations — 3 hrs.

Survey of various approaches to international relations with special emphasis on application to historical and contemporary cases. (Fall and Spring)

POL INTL 3119. Politics of the Global Economy — 3 hrs.

Analysis of how the pursuit of power and the pursuit of wealth interact in international relations. Emphasis on trade policy, monetary and financial policies, economic development, and the politics of globalization since 1945. (Variable)

POL INTL 3120. International Security — 3 hrs.

Survey of the nature and causes of war, and the methods states use to achieve security. Examination of such issues as arms races, alliances, military technology, and military strategy and their relation to the politics of international relations. Analysis of methods for resolving conflicts and promoting peace. (Variable)

POL INTL 3125. Politics of International Development — 3 hrs.

Since the end of the Cold War, the international community has become more concerned with poverty, hunger, deprivation, the spread of disease and violence in all forms. This course studies the political dynamics that lead to action or that perpetuate inaction. (Variable)

POL INTL 3126. Human Rights — 3 hrs.

Examination of the origins and development of the concept of Human Rights. Review of the major challenges to global human rights, including genocide, racism, political repression, national/religion oppression, and gender discrimination. Emphasis on the international institutions, norms, and policies of states and non-state actors to define and promote human rights. (Variable)

POL INTL 3127. United States Foreign Policy — 3 hrs.

Historical and theoretical examination of the individual, domestic, and systemic factors which affect formulation of United States foreign policy. (Variable)

POL INTL 3143. International Law — 3 hrs.

Survey of international law from its development to contemporary issues. (Variable)

POL INTL 3145. International Organizations — 3 hrs.

Description of international governmental and nongovernmental organizations, and analysis of their roles in international politics. (Variable)

Public Policy Courses

PUBPOL 6201. Politics and Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Defining and focusing on the non-linear aspect of the policy process, including an emphasis on non-rational decision making. Analysis of legislative, executive, and bureaucratic influences. Understanding how policy images and public perception shape the formation of public policy and evaluation techniques. (Odd Falls)

PUBPOL 6204. Program Evaluation in Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Theory and practice of program evaluation and evaluative research from both quantitative and qualitative perspectives. (Even Falls)

PUBPOL 6220. Public Policy, Advocacy and Public Funding — 2 hrs.

Policy context of philanthropy and nonprofit development; the role of nonprofits in policy development and advocacy. Prerequisite(s): admission into the Philanthropy and Nonprofit Development graduate program. (Variable)

PUBPOL 6230. Ethics in Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Examination of widely accepted moral philosophies and non-rational approaches to ethical judgments; application of ethical principles and analytic methods to decision-making in public policy. Specific topics will vary, in accordance with current events. (Variable)

PUBPOL 6260. Policy Analysis: Methods and Approaches — 3 hrs.

Research methods and approaches for analyzing and evaluating public policy choices and impacts. Understanding the context and purposes of policy analysis. Defining policy research questions and developing research designs. Selecting and applying appropriate research methods to policy problems. Prerequisite(s): enrollment requires admission to the graduate program in Public Policy, or consent of Director of Graduate Program in Public Policy. (Odd Falls)

PUBPOL 6275. Quantitative Methods for Politics and Policy — 3 hrs.

Statistical methods appropriate to study of political science and public policy, including hypothesis testing using parametric and nonparametric tests, correlation and bivariate regression, experimental methods, logistic regression and multiple regression. (Even Springs)

PUBPOL 6276. Advanced Methods for Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Introduction to advanced statistical methods appropriate to the study of public policy, including correlation, bivariate and multiple regression. Students will have the opportunity to explore real world data sets using the tools and analytical skills learned throughout the course to produce policy memos informed by data analysis. (Even Falls)

PUBPOL 6280. Capstone: Policy Practicum — 3 hrs.

Provides students with an opportunity to apply the data analytic and program evaluation skills learned throughout the program by partnering with selected organizations in surrounding communities to engage in policy analysis and decision making. (Odd Springs)

PUBPOL 6281. Internship in Public Policy — 3 hrs.

Field experience for students enrolled in Master of Public Policy degree program. Students may be given credit for extensive career experience at the discretion of the Program Director. (Even Summers)

PUBPOL 6285. Readings in Public Policy — 1-3 hrs.

Registration requires written consent of Program Director. May be repeated. (Odd Summers)