The undergraduate government major offers a liberal arts education with a focus on the institutions, ideas, and processes of community, national, and international decision making. Students choose one of four tracks, which are described below.
The Department of Government offers undergraduate students an opportunity to enter into the political profession by gaining expertise through a wide range of courses, faculty and student research, and public service. The department also seeks to improve the political process, and to expand public understanding of political issues, institutions, and processes through a variety of public programs, work with the media, the polls conducted by the Suffolk University Political Research Center, and research by its faculty and students.
The department offers a major and a minor, each with a choice of four tracks. The department also collaborates with others to offer majors in Latin American and Caribbean studies and in environmental studies.
The government department offers the undergraduate major in both the BA and, except for Track D, the BS.
Students must do at least 8 credits in residence in the major to graduate.
Waiver of Admissions Examination for MSPS
Students graduating with a major in any government track, and with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0, are exempted from the requirement to submit scores from either the Graduate Record Examination or Miller Analogies Test when applying for admission to the Master of Science in Political Science program at Suffolk University.
All government majors in all tracks must complete the following nine (9) credits of core courses.
4.00
An introduction to the American political system and constitutional framework. Focus will be on the interplay of various institutions (the Presidency, Congress and the Judiciary) in creating public policies. Contemporary public issues will be discussed, as will the role of political theory in shaping American democracy. Attention will be given to the role of the news media, public opinion, political ideology, political parties and interest groups in the American system.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Building on the skills learned in GVT 110, students will be introduced to the subfields of political science and learn to analyze political writings. Focus will be on the use of the scientific method for research on politics and government. Students will learn the steps in writing a research paper, including developing the research question and selecting a research design. Attention will be given to the use of statistical analysis and public opinion polling in political research.
Social Science
1.00
This course is designed to provide all Government degree-seeking students with a team-taught capstone experience. In this course, we will collectively discuss and consider career, professional and academic experience for the Government major, including learning more about the fields of public policy, public service, law, nonprofit management, international development, and nongovernmental organization management. This course focuses on career entry and transition, networking for career success, impression management concept and skills, and related life-long learning skills. Students articulate and reflect on academic, work, and co-curricular experiences from the perspective of professionals entering or advancing their careers. Pre-requisite: Senior standing.
Social Science
This track provides a broad overview of political science as a discipline, including its major subfields, and introduces common methods of qualitative and quantitative research. It is the ideal preparation for graduate study in political science, particularly for the PhD. Track A is also recommended for students pursuing certification in secondary school teaching.
Sophomore Standing GVT 110 and 120 and Math 130 or higher.
4.00
This course is an introduction to statistics and empirical research methods generally used in political science. The course will emphasize the use of statistics and its value in substantive political science research. Statistics is a tool for drawing conclusions and making inferences from observable evidence. As well, the specification of conditions under which evidence is observed affects the conclusions and arguments that political scientists draw about how social and political processes work. The purpose of this course is to equip students with tools to interpret and conduct original data analysis, critique and make an argument based on data, and provide a view into the process of political science research and how political scientists use statistical methods and research design to answer substantive questions about politics. Since most applied data analysis utilizes data management software, students will learn how to use SPSS as a tool for conducting data analysis. Prerequisites: Sophomore Standing, GVT 110 and 120 and Math 130 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits.
Quantitative Reasoning
Sophomore standing
4.00
Political thought and philosophy from antiquity to the present, including such thinkers as Aristotle, Locke, Marx and Nietzsche. The course will highlight major watersheds in political theory such as the Renaissance and the Reformation, and will also examine non-Western traditions. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Electives must include at least one course each in American government, comparative government, and international relations.
GVT 110 or GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
This course will provide an examination of the institutions that are involved in the American policy-making process. The student will learn about the presidential, (as opposed to the parliamentary) system that exists in the United States. The course will focus on a relationship between the President and Congress and how that relationship impedes or facilitates the public policy process, including the budgetary process. The course will include a discussion of the presidents role as head of the executive branch, and the implementation of congressional policies. Attention will be given to the role of the judiciary in the policy process. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
An introduction to the process by which public policies are made in the United States. The class will focus on agenda-setting and policy formulation at the federal level, and will include a discussion of the various actors in governmental institutions that impact public policy. Several policy issues will be used as examples to illustrate the process. Some comparisons will be made to state and local policymaking. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Not open to Freshmen
4.00
Analysis of Supreme Court decisions in regard to political and civil rights including freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion, obscenity, race and sex discrimination, and criminal procedure. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110/120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
The development, structure and functions of state governments with emphasis on the government of Massachusetts; the various forms of local government in cities and towns; analysis of the relationships between local, state and federal governments. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The law affects and is affected by public policy. Beyond this, the law affects, and is affected by, many other disciplines. Understanding the evolving relationship among public policy, law and psychology in the US is integral to both disciplines. This course explores contemporary forensic psychologys role in the legal system - e.g., jury selection; expert witnesses; biases; crime control vs. due process, etc. through readings, class discussion, occasional audio-visual material and guest speakers if and when appropriate and available. Normally offered every other year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course examines womens issues and roles in the public policy process. Topics will include policies that affect women, such as child care and reproductive issues. Emphasis will also be placed on womens roles in the policy process, as citizens, voters, and public officials. Prerequisite: Open to non-majors; not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity A
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt A,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Not open to freshmen
4.00
Public policy-makers interests in formulating and implementing policy in the areas of environmental protection, consumer protection, equal employment opportunity, health care, taxation and competition with a focus on business responsibility will be critically analyzed. Costs and benefits to the public and business will be evaluated. Prerequisite: Open to non-majors; not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
Contemporary state court processes, progress and problems including trial and appellate court practice, procedure and participants; plea bargaining, alternative dispute resolution; policy making. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Perspectives on the role and problems of the presidency in American political life; the nature and difficulties of presidential influence and effectiveness, presidential authority within our system of government, and the impact of presidential character. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors consent
4.00
The structure and functioning of legislatures. Particular emphasis on the U.S. Congress, how it works and how it compares with other legislatures. The role of legislatures in a democracy. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GOV 110, GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Covers the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, known as the Reconstruction amendments. This course focuses upon these three critical amendments, with an eye towards their importance in framing race-based rights, and the 14th with regard to gender-based rights. It emphasizes the politics of these amendments language, ratification, and impact (including their 130-year interpretation by the Supreme Court.) The course treats the U.S. Constitution dynamically, as a political and social educator. It also examines the extent to which the Constitution could be viewed as race- or gender-blind.
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Historical overview of party development in the U.S. and of ideological and political trends as reflected in voting behavior. Recent developments in party structure, electoral strategies and political style. The party crisis vs. the art of political campaigning. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The relationship of women to their political culture and structures. The role of women seen in theory (e.g., Marxism, American feminism, existentialism) and in global comparative analysis. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
This course examines various methods of comparing political systems. Institutions such as executive departments, legislatures, court systems and local governmental systems are examined comparatively. It includes analysis of the impact of different economic systems on political/governmental institutions, and on economic circumstances that impact government. It also looks at political socialization both in terms of process and comparative content. An effort is made to include countries from all regions of the world. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Theories dealing with the process of political change in countries of the Third World: the impact of the military, traditional culture and institutions, economic problems, strong personalities and other factors on political life and institutions. Prerequisite: Not open to freshmen. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
4.00
This course is designed to provide students with a basic grounding in political institutions and processes in contemporary Spain. Political developments are presented in their socio-economic context, with special emphasis on the Spanish transition from a dictatorship to a democracy. Attention is also given to the issue of the Basque and Catalan nationalism, as well as the process of European integration. Prerequisite: GVT 281 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years at the Madrid Campus.
Social Science
GVT 110 and GVT 120
4.00
The political development of Africa in colonial and post-colonial periods. Analysis of the evolution of governmental institutions includes economic, social and personal factors; political forces at work in present day Africa. Not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
Not open to freshmen.
4.00
This course will examiner political and economic institutions of newly independent entities from Kazakhstan to the Baltics. It will include historical roots of the Soviet Union from the Russian Revolution through the Gorbachev years. Attention will be paid to Marxist theory and non-Marxist challenges for the economy of the area as well as the state. While some of attention will be paid to foreign relations of the former Soviet Union and the current regimes with Western Europe and the U.S. and elsewhere, the major emphasis will be on domestic policy on citizens of the former Soviet Union. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science
GVT 281 or instructors consent. Junior status or above
4.00
current political trends in the Caribbean and in selected Central American nations. Emphasis will be placed on comparative analysis of public policies in the region, as well as on external factors which impact on politics in the Caribbean and Central America. Students will use academic sources in their analysis, as well as novels and other literary sources for the background of their analysis. Not open to freshmen. Normally offered every third year. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
Emphasis on a particular approach to the problems of economic modernization and political development. Historical background; the revolutionary movement; present political structures and current issues. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,Asian Studies
GVT 110/120 or Instructors permission
4.00
This course examines the Canadian model of incorporating diverse communities into its constitutional and political framework, including the founding British North American Act of 1867, the 1982 Constitution Act, and two later attempts at constitutional reform. Canadas role in balancing two official languages, English and French, is discussed, as is its recognition of a First Nations native-governed territory in the Arctic. This course introduces students to the Canadian polity and compares its parliamentary system with the U.S. separation of powers system. Prerequisites: GVT 110, GVT 120 or instructors consent. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 or instructor consent
4.00
This course examines the evolution of Latin America in the context of globalization. The first part analyzes the main political and economic trends of Latin America as a region, while the second presents the main challenges Mexico is facing today in the area of security. The third part moves forward into the detailed explanation of the transformations of the largest South American countries such as Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Venezuela, among others. The final section looks at the relationship between Latin America and the United States.
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
Junior status
4.00
This class examines the political ramifications o social movements primarily but not exclusively within the United States. It looks at ideology, beliefs and mechanisms of mobilization. Another important focus is an analysis of non-white social movements in this country and their impact on domestic politics. Among the movements to be examined are: the Pan-African movement 1919-1939 which will, to some extent, take us outside this country; the U.S. Civil Rights Movement 1955 to 1969 which covers the rise of the Black Power movement; and the U.S. Labor Movement 1900 to 1955 in terms of non-white influence on its programmatic goals. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Why did 17 European countries surrender the sovereign control of their currency and create the Euro? Will Turkey become a member of the European Union? Will Europeans continue free riding the security protection of the United States? Is the integration process another layer of bureaucracy or an institutional instrument to dean with the permanent crises in Europe? There are some of the questions guiding the discussions in the class.
Social Science
TAKE GVT-281 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Interlocking themes making the contemporary Middle East an area of chronic conflict: Big Power rivalries; social and political change within individual countries; unity and Arab rivalry involved in Arab nationalism; the Palestinian-Israeli-Arab dispute. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
GVT 110, and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
Review of major approaches to the study of international relations. Definition of concepts such as power, nationalism, imperialism, and dependency. Special attention to the use of force and conflict resolution. Special class project. Normally offered every year.
Social Science
4.00
This course examines the main political, economic and social trends in the European Union, Latin America and the United States as well as the multiples interactions among them since the end of the Cold War. The readings are structured in two main sections. After briefly reviewing the historical development of these three partners on both sides of the Atlantic in the past five decades, the first section identifies the key processes that are defining the main characteristics of Europe (deepening vs. widening), United States (isolationism vs. internationalism) and Latin America (democracy vs. social equality). The second part of the course explains the tendencies and contradictions in the construction of the external relations of the European Union towards the United States and Latin America, from the cooperation and competition in development of a safe and free Europe in the 1990s to the acrimonious debate about the 2003 Iraq invasion and the prospects of the 2006 EU-Latin America Vienna Summit, among other important events.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 and GVT 261
4.00
A decision-making approach to understanding the domestic and institutional context of U.S. foreign policy. Includes analysis of continuity and change since WWII using case studies of critical decisions, e.g., Korea, Cuba, Vietnam, etc. Not open to freshmen. Prerequisites: GVT 110, GVT 120, GVT 261 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course will explore the role played by the United States in the Middle East in the twentieth century, with emphasis on the period since World War II. Our study will begin with a decision-making approach to understanding the domestic and institutional context of Americas policy toward the region, followed by an examination of that policy as it confronted radical nationalist, socialist, and Islamic movements, Soviet influence, and specific contemporary problems - the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Lebanese civil war, the Iranian revolution, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Gulf War. Open to non-majors, not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
SOPH STANDING REQUIRED
4.00
The course will survey various theories of nationalism and ethnic conflict and test their applicability to a number of contemporary cases. After a look at the sources of ethnic conflict within a particular country we will examine the way in which the international system reacted. Special attention will be paid to conflicts that have or have had a U.S. diplomatic dimension, namely Northern Ireland and Israel/Palestinian territories. Open to non-majors.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
In the 20th century the general public became aware of the need for following a sustainable lifestyle. Non-governmental organizations, governmental institutions and individuals began to study environmental problems and issues to enhance the concept of conservation of nature and the protection of the planets biodiversity among other important concepts. However, as we enter the 21st century, we are finding ourselves involved in new environmental threats such as increasingly disturbing natural disasters, eco-terrorism and endless extreme poverty. This course is aimed at learning the basic environmental aspects that affect society and nature as a whole, along with the new issues that are arising and leading scientists to continue new lines of research in the field of environmental conservation and awareness, knowing also that the key to hope lies in the field of environmental education. Offered on the Madrid Campus only.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 261. Junior status or above
4.00
The objective of this course is to analyze the mechanisms and processes of diplomacy. It provides a sense of the evolution of statecraft, and it seeks to assess the utility of different approaches to the development of foreign policy and to examine the successes and failures of these approaches in different circumstances. Prerequisite: GVT 281 or instructors consent. Open only to Juniors and Seniors. 1 term - 4 credits.
Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
This course explains the main components of the international legal system. It begins by exploring the rules, principles and norms that govern the relationship among states, the different cultural and philosophical legal perspectives and the history of the international legal system. The second part of the course covers the study of the sources and subjects of the international law, the jurisdiction of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the use of force and the legal personality of international actors. The third part of the course addresses a number of significant topics derived from the process of globalization legal norms: human rights, humanitarian intervention, law of the sea, environmental law, and economic relations.
Social Science
GVT-261
4.00
This course explores the institutional structures, political processes, and impact of international governmental and nongovernmental organizations. It analyzes their increasingly prominent role in efforts to resolve a wide range of global problems and contribution to strengthen the current system of global governance. While the course covers the problems of international security, global distribution of wealth, deterioration of the environmental system, and threats to social welfare, it focuses on the interaction between the United Nations System and regional organizations, on the one hand, and the role of non-governmental organizations in cooperating or competing to solve specific problems in the area of international relations.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
This track is designed to give students a strong background in the institutions and processes of American government. Students interested in careers in politics and public service, as well as students wishing to go on to graduate studies in public administration, public policy, and law, will benefit from this track. Track B provides students with a general knowledge of American government, as well as technical skills necessary to analyze and understand American government and politics.
GVT 110 or GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
This course will provide an examination of the institutions that are involved in the American policy-making process. The student will learn about the presidential, (as opposed to the parliamentary) system that exists in the United States. The course will focus on a relationship between the President and Congress and how that relationship impedes or facilitates the public policy process, including the budgetary process. The course will include a discussion of the presidents role as head of the executive branch, and the implementation of congressional policies. Attention will be given to the role of the judiciary in the policy process. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Historical overview of party development in the U.S. and of ideological and political trends as reflected in voting behavior. Recent developments in party structure, electoral strategies and political style. The party crisis vs. the art of political campaigning. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
An introduction to the process by which public policies are made in the United States. The class will focus on agenda-setting and policy formulation at the federal level, and will include a discussion of the various actors in governmental institutions that impact public policy. Several policy issues will be used as examples to illustrate the process. Some comparisons will be made to state and local policymaking. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110/120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
The development, structure and functions of state governments with emphasis on the government of Massachusetts; the various forms of local government in cities and towns; analysis of the relationships between local, state and federal governments. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Perspectives on the role and problems of the presidency in American political life; the nature and difficulties of presidential influence and effectiveness, presidential authority within our system of government, and the impact of presidential character. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors consent
4.00
The structure and functioning of legislatures. Particular emphasis on the U.S. Congress, how it works and how it compares with other legislatures. The role of legislatures in a democracy. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
One elective must be a political theory course.
*Electives strongly recommended for this track:
Not open to Freshmen
4.00
Analysis of Supreme Court decisions in regard to political and civil rights including freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion, obscenity, race and sex discrimination, and criminal procedure. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110/120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
The development, structure and functions of state governments with emphasis on the government of Massachusetts; the various forms of local government in cities and towns; analysis of the relationships between local, state and federal governments. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course examines womens issues and roles in the public policy process. Topics will include policies that affect women, such as child care and reproductive issues. Emphasis will also be placed on womens roles in the policy process, as citizens, voters, and public officials. Prerequisite: Open to non-majors; not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity A
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt A,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Perspectives on the role and problems of the presidency in American political life; the nature and difficulties of presidential influence and effectiveness, presidential authority within our system of government, and the impact of presidential character. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors consent
4.00
The structure and functioning of legislatures. Particular emphasis on the U.S. Congress, how it works and how it compares with other legislatures. The role of legislatures in a democracy. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110, 120, 243, and 244 or instructors permission
4.00
A critical analysis of whether our constitutional system is adequate to effectively resolve the new and complex problems of governance in this century. The strengths and weaknesses of governmental structure created by the U.S. Constitution will be examined. Past and current amendment proposals will receive special attention. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110/120 OR INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION Junior status or above
4.00
This course examines the political process and problems characteristic of big cities in the United States today. Students are encouraged to do individual and group research on specific urban political topics. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 OR GVT 120
4.00
This course will explore the influence of the media on contemporary political issues and public opinion; and the use of media in political campaigns, advertising, etc. Topics may include the impact of talk radio, the issue of the media bias, the role of television, the Hollywood connection, etc. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
How are elections administered in the United States? Do Americans have confidence in the electoral process? Should they? Why or why not? This course will examine elections in the United States in detail -- from how they are funded to how they are administered to how voters behave. Students will have a choice of either serving as poll workers during the November election or organizing and conducting research of potential voters. Students will gain hands-on experience in actual research design, election administration, and non-partisan get-out-the-vote activities. In addition, students will gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between attitudes, opinion, and voting behavior in American politics and institutions. ECR
Humanities & History,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 OR GVT 120 OR GVT 223 OR GVT 224
4.00
Public policys impact on Blacks Chicanos, Native Americans Puerto Ricans, and other minority groups; how public policy has contributed to racial oppression; policies for attaining racial equality; political strategies of minority groups. Cultural Diversity A
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
This course will have a service learning component Sophomore Status required
4.00
From Rio to the Boston Harbor Project, this course examines the policies and politics of the environment. It examines the origins of the environmental movement in the United States focusing on the development and present function of government and non-government organizations responsible for the development and implementation of global, national, state and local environmental policies.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Students graduating from the College with a BA or BS in the American politics and government major, and who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, are guaranteed admission to the master’s program in public administration (MPA) offered by the Sawyer Business School.
Seniors in the APG track with a GPA of 3.0 or better may cross register into the Sawyer Business School for graduate level foundations courses in public administration.
This track is designed to give students interested in law and the courts the opportunity to study and critically analyze state, federal, and international legal issues and the institutions in which legal decisions are made. It is appropriate for students with a general interest in law, for preparation toward careers in media or public service, and for those planning further legal studies. Prelaw advising is regularly available for government majors in any track who plan to apply to law school.
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Not open to Freshmen
4.00
Analysis of Supreme Court decisions in regard to political and civil rights including freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion, obscenity, race and sex discrimination, and criminal procedure. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
Contemporary state court processes, progress and problems including trial and appellate court practice, procedure and participants; plea bargaining, alternative dispute resolution; policy making. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
One elective must be a political theory course.
*Electives strongly recommended for this track:
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors consent
4.00
The structure and functioning of legislatures. Particular emphasis on the U.S. Congress, how it works and how it compares with other legislatures. The role of legislatures in a democracy. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GOV 110, GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Covers the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, known as the Reconstruction amendments. This course focuses upon these three critical amendments, with an eye towards their importance in framing race-based rights, and the 14th with regard to gender-based rights. It emphasizes the politics of these amendments language, ratification, and impact (including their 130-year interpretation by the Supreme Court.) The course treats the U.S. Constitution dynamically, as a political and social educator. It also examines the extent to which the Constitution could be viewed as race- or gender-blind.
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
This course explains the main components of the international legal system. It begins by exploring the rules, principles and norms that govern the relationship among states, the different cultural and philosophical legal perspectives and the history of the international legal system. The second part of the course covers the study of the sources and subjects of the international law, the jurisdiction of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the use of force and the legal personality of international actors. The third part of the course addresses a number of significant topics derived from the process of globalization legal norms: human rights, humanitarian intervention, law of the sea, environmental law, and economic relations.
Social Science
The purpose of this track is to give students the preparation and tools necessary to pursue careers in international affairs, including the public sector, private companies, and independent sector organizations which operate in the international environment. It is also suitable for students planning graduate study in political science, law or diplomacy. Students in Track D must earn the BA.
GVT 110, and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
Review of major approaches to the study of international relations. Definition of concepts such as power, nationalism, imperialism, and dependency. Special attention to the use of force and conflict resolution. Special class project. Normally offered every year.
Social Science
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
This course examines various methods of comparing political systems. Institutions such as executive departments, legislatures, court systems and local governmental systems are examined comparatively. It includes analysis of the impact of different economic systems on political/governmental institutions, and on economic circumstances that impact government. It also looks at political socialization both in terms of process and comparative content. An effort is made to include countries from all regions of the world. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 and GVT 261 or instructors consent
4.00
This course explores the main premises and approaches to study Global Political Economy. After analyzing the history and development of the international system, it studies how states and markets are interconnected in the creation and reform of economic and political international institutions in the globalization process. It also focuses on the most acute problems of the current international system in the area of IPE, namely, environmental degradation, external debt, poverty, increasing gap between rich and poor countries, and trade conflicts. Offered every year.
Social Science
GVT 281 and GVT 261
4.00
This course examines the dynamic evolution of the debates on International Security as well as the transformations in the main global and regional security institutions such as UN and NATO. Based upon International Relations perspectives, it analyzes the traditional definitions of security at the national, regional and international levels of analysis since 1945. Likewise, it studies how states and international institutions have revisited the concepts, policies and strategies of security since the end of the Cold War and after the September 11 events, from realist perspectives to the Copenhagen School of security studies. Offered every year.
Social Science
GVT 281 and GVT 261
4.00
A decision-making approach to understanding the domestic and institutional context of U.S. foreign policy. Includes analysis of continuity and change since WWII using case studies of critical decisions, e.g., Korea, Cuba, Vietnam, etc. Not open to freshmen. Prerequisites: GVT 110, GVT 120, GVT 261 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
This course explains the main components of the international legal system. It begins by exploring the rules, principles and norms that govern the relationship among states, the different cultural and philosophical legal perspectives and the history of the international legal system. The second part of the course covers the study of the sources and subjects of the international law, the jurisdiction of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the use of force and the legal personality of international actors. The third part of the course addresses a number of significant topics derived from the process of globalization legal norms: human rights, humanitarian intervention, law of the sea, environmental law, and economic relations.
Social Science
GVT-261
4.00
This course explores the institutional structures, political processes, and impact of international governmental and nongovernmental organizations. It analyzes their increasingly prominent role in efforts to resolve a wide range of global problems and contribution to strengthen the current system of global governance. While the course covers the problems of international security, global distribution of wealth, deterioration of the environmental system, and threats to social welfare, it focuses on the interaction between the United Nations System and regional organizations, on the one hand, and the role of non-governmental organizations in cooperating or competing to solve specific problems in the area of international relations.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
At least one from group A – Country/Area Studies and group B – Issues. The list of available classes might change in any given semester.
4.00
Theories dealing with the process of political change in countries of the Third World: the impact of the military, traditional culture and institutions, economic problems, strong personalities and other factors on political life and institutions. Prerequisite: Not open to freshmen. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
Open to Juniors and Seniors
4.00
An analysis of the origins and the local, regional, and international dimensions of the Palestinian-Israeli-Arab conflict, this course will examine the conflict through the eyes of the major protagonists and the roles played by them from the early twentieth century to the present: Zionists/Israelis, Palestinians and other Arabs, British, Americans, Soviets. We will also explore the questions of why this conflict has captured the worlds attention and why it has gone unresolved since World War II. Finally, we will examine the possibilities and attempts for resolution of what appears to be an intractable human tragedy.
Social Science
4.00
This course examines the main political, economic and social trends in the European Union, Latin America and the United States as well as the multiples interactions among them since the end of the Cold War. The readings are structured in two main sections. After briefly reviewing the historical development of these three partners on both sides of the Atlantic in the past five decades, the first section identifies the key processes that are defining the main characteristics of Europe (deepening vs. widening), United States (isolationism vs. internationalism) and Latin America (democracy vs. social equality). The second part of the course explains the tendencies and contradictions in the construction of the external relations of the European Union towards the United States and Latin America, from the cooperation and competition in development of a safe and free Europe in the 1990s to the acrimonious debate about the 2003 Iraq invasion and the prospects of the 2006 EU-Latin America Vienna Summit, among other important events.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course is designed to provide students with a basic grounding in political institutions and processes in contemporary Spain. Political developments are presented in their socio-economic context, with special emphasis on the Spanish transition from a dictatorship to a democracy. Attention is also given to the issue of the Basque and Catalan nationalism, as well as the process of European integration. Prerequisite: GVT 281 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years at the Madrid Campus.
Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
Why did 17 European countries surrender the sovereign control of their currency and create the Euro? Will Turkey become a member of the European Union? Will Europeans continue free riding the security protection of the United States? Is the integration process another layer of bureaucracy or an institutional instrument to dean with the permanent crises in Europe? There are some of the questions guiding the discussions in the class.
Social Science
GVT 110 and GVT 120
4.00
The political development of Africa in colonial and post-colonial periods. Analysis of the evolution of governmental institutions includes economic, social and personal factors; political forces at work in present day Africa. Not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
GVT 281 or instructors consent. Junior status or above
4.00
current political trends in the Caribbean and in selected Central American nations. Emphasis will be placed on comparative analysis of public policies in the region, as well as on external factors which impact on politics in the Caribbean and Central America. Students will use academic sources in their analysis, as well as novels and other literary sources for the background of their analysis. Not open to freshmen. Normally offered every third year. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
4.00
This course will examine US relations with East Asia through the lens of leading International Relations theories. We will analyze the growing regional influence of China, and will also examine the foreign policies of major regional powers including South and North Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. By exploring the economic and political factors that are working to shape the dynamic East Asian regional order, we will gain an understanding of the challenges faced by the US in this economically and strategically pivotal region.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
Emphasis on a particular approach to the problems of economic modernization and political development. Historical background; the revolutionary movement; present political structures and current issues. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,Asian Studies
GVT 110/120 or Instructors permission
4.00
This course examines the Canadian model of incorporating diverse communities into its constitutional and political framework, including the founding British North American Act of 1867, the 1982 Constitution Act, and two later attempts at constitutional reform. Canadas role in balancing two official languages, English and French, is discussed, as is its recognition of a First Nations native-governed territory in the Arctic. This course introduces students to the Canadian polity and compares its parliamentary system with the U.S. separation of powers system. Prerequisites: GVT 110, GVT 120 or instructors consent. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 or instructor consent
4.00
This course examines the evolution of Latin America in the context of globalization. The first part analyzes the main political and economic trends of Latin America as a region, while the second presents the main challenges Mexico is facing today in the area of security. The third part moves forward into the detailed explanation of the transformations of the largest South American countries such as Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Venezuela, among others. The final section looks at the relationship between Latin America and the United States.
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
TAKE GVT-281 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Interlocking themes making the contemporary Middle East an area of chronic conflict: Big Power rivalries; social and political change within individual countries; unity and Arab rivalry involved in Arab nationalism; the Palestinian-Israeli-Arab dispute. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION This course fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement
4.00
APPROVAL OF DEPT. CHAIRPERSON. Specially arranged study trip to a foreign country for the purpose of obtaining knowledge through direct experience and observation. Includes prearranged site visits, meetings, required reading and written assignments. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Any course offered by the department with a focus on the politics of a particular nation or region
4.00
The relationship of women to their political culture and structures. The role of women seen in theory (e.g., Marxism, American feminism, existentialism) and in global comparative analysis. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course will explore the role played by the United States in the Middle East in the twentieth century, with emphasis on the period since World War II. Our study will begin with a decision-making approach to understanding the domestic and institutional context of Americas policy toward the region, followed by an examination of that policy as it confronted radical nationalist, socialist, and Islamic movements, Soviet influence, and specific contemporary problems - the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Lebanese civil war, the Iranian revolution, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Gulf War. Open to non-majors, not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Utilizing the theoretical frameworks of Comparative Politics and International Relations, this course will focus on a critical analysis of contemporary forms of resistance politics, such as those culminating in popular struggles for peace, democracy, human rights, economic justice, gender equality, environment, and the rights of indigenous peoples.
Social Science
SOPH STANDING REQUIRED
4.00
The course will survey various theories of nationalism and ethnic conflict and test their applicability to a number of contemporary cases. After a look at the sources of ethnic conflict within a particular country we will examine the way in which the international system reacted. Special attention will be paid to conflicts that have or have had a U.S. diplomatic dimension, namely Northern Ireland and Israel/Palestinian territories. Open to non-majors.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The rise of the Green Party, from its grass-roots beginnings to participation in the federal government. Background on the development of green consciousness in Germany and Europe since the early 20th century. Present governmental policies and programs (e.g., alternative energy sources, organic farming, recycling, dismantling of nuclear power). Cross-listed GER 420 and ENST 420
Social Science
This course will have a service learning component Sophomore Status required
4.00
From Rio to the Boston Harbor Project, this course examines the policies and politics of the environment. It examines the origins of the environmental movement in the United States focusing on the development and present function of government and non-government organizations responsible for the development and implementation of global, national, state and local environmental policies.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
In the 20th century the general public became aware of the need for following a sustainable lifestyle. Non-governmental organizations, governmental institutions and individuals began to study environmental problems and issues to enhance the concept of conservation of nature and the protection of the planets biodiversity among other important concepts. However, as we enter the 21st century, we are finding ourselves involved in new environmental threats such as increasingly disturbing natural disasters, eco-terrorism and endless extreme poverty. This course is aimed at learning the basic environmental aspects that affect society and nature as a whole, along with the new issues that are arising and leading scientists to continue new lines of research in the field of environmental conservation and awareness, knowing also that the key to hope lies in the field of environmental education. Offered on the Madrid Campus only.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 261. Junior status or above
4.00
The objective of this course is to analyze the mechanisms and processes of diplomacy. It provides a sense of the evolution of statecraft, and it seeks to assess the utility of different approaches to the development of foreign policy and to examine the successes and failures of these approaches in different circumstances. Prerequisite: GVT 281 or instructors consent. Open only to Juniors and Seniors. 1 term - 4 credits.
Social Science
GVT 261
4.00
This course examines the intertwined nature of the globalization and regionalization processes from the perspective of global political economy. The first part of the course provides the basic elements and indicators to understand the main challenges the international economy is facing such as crisis, protectionism, and underdevelopment, inter alia. The second part presents the evolution of globalization and regionalism in the past decades. The third and final section compares how the distinct regions in the world are dealing with local and global problems; particularly attention is paid to the European Union, NAFTA, Mercosur and APEC.
Social Science
Junior status
4.00
This class examines the political ramifications o social movements primarily but not exclusively within the United States. It looks at ideology, beliefs and mechanisms of mobilization. Another important focus is an analysis of non-white social movements in this country and their impact on domestic politics. Among the movements to be examined are: the Pan-African movement 1919-1939 which will, to some extent, take us outside this country; the U.S. Civil Rights Movement 1955 to 1969 which covers the rise of the Black Power movement; and the U.S. Labor Movement 1900 to 1955 in terms of non-white influence on its programmatic goals. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 261 Junior status or above
4.00
An examination of human rights at the end of the 20th century. Attention will be given to the origin and expansion of the concept of human rights in different political systems, the links between culture and human rights and the means and mechanisms for safeguarding human rights with particular reference to the United Nations system.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
not open to freshmen
4.00
This course explores the political and cultural history of Islam, with emphasis on the contemporary Islamic resurgence in Muslim countries. The origins and causes of this resurgence, its aims, and its effects on domestic, regional, and world politics will be examined. Offered as needed. Cultural Diversity B
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt B,Asian Studies
Instructors consent
4.00
This course provides an introduction to the study of the role of the United Nations System in the globalization era. The course is divided in two main sections. The first is based on a series of readings, lectures and discussion on the rules, principles and norms which govern the relationship among states and the UN system; it also covers traditional topics such as the sources and subjects of international law, the jurisdiction of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the use of force and the legal personality of international actors, human rights, humanitarian intervention, global environment, used of armed forces, as well as economic relations. The second part of the course is based on a required study trip to the UN headquarters in order to experience a direct contact with policy-makers within the UN system in a diversity of areas such as security, aid and peacekeeping areas.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Any course offered by the department with a focus on international relations
Economics (preferably Macroeconomics)
History (non-U.S. History)
These courses may be double-counted to fulfill other degree requirements.
This program provides an accelerated path for undergraduate government majors to obtain a master’s degree in government. The GRE is required for all students applying to the accelerated program by the start of the first semester as full-time graduate students. The GRE will be waived if overall GPA is 3.0 or student is awarded government department honors.
Students are allowed to take up to two master-level courses in their senior year. For each of these graduate courses taken, the student’s undergraduate total credit requirement is reduced by four credits. Students do not receive an undergraduate degree at the end of the second semester of their senior year, instead they continue on as degree candidates in the political science MA programs.
Undergraduate students at Suffolk University, majoring in government (BS or BA), can apply for this joint degree program. Applicants must be a rising senior with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher and a GPA of 3.5 or higher in at least three government major courses taken at Suffolk. Interested students must be nominated by a full-time faculty member in the government department in the form of a written letter of recommendation that is submitted to the director of graduate studies, must complete the standard Application for Graduate Study, must submit a writing sample that is no longer than 20 pages, and must interview with the department’s director of graduate studies. The application deadline is June 15th of the junior year. However, students may apply until November 1st of the senior year if they wish to enroll in graduate courses in the second semester of their senior year. Students can take two graduate level classes during their senior year and they can take them one at a time or both at once. Once two graduate classes have been taken, students can take no more until they have otherwise fulfilled the requirements for their undergraduate degree.
Each student admitted to this joint degree program must meet all the requirements of one of the undergraduate degree programs (BS or BA in Government). In addition, the student must meet all the requirements of one of the master’s degree programs (MSPS). Upon successful completion of all of the degree requirements, a student will be conferred one joint degree.
A student may permanently exit the joint degree program and opt to graduate with a bachelor’s degree if all the requirements of a bachelor’s degree are met, in which case each of the two graduate courses taken in the senior year would be counted as a 4-credit course.
The government department participates in the Latin American and Caribbean Studies interdisciplinary major and minor.
The government department participates in the environmental studies interdisciplinary major and minor.
All government minors must complete the two required core minor requirements, as well as three additional courses in their chosen track (a total of 20 credits/5 courses).
4.00
An introduction to the American political system and constitutional framework. Focus will be on the interplay of various institutions (the Presidency, Congress and the Judiciary) in creating public policies. Contemporary public issues will be discussed, as will the role of political theory in shaping American democracy. Attention will be given to the role of the news media, public opinion, political ideology, political parties and interest groups in the American system.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Building on the skills learned in GVT 110, students will be introduced to the subfields of political science and learn to analyze political writings. Focus will be on the use of the scientific method for research on politics and government. Students will learn the steps in writing a research paper, including developing the research question and selecting a research design. Attention will be given to the use of statistical analysis and public opinion polling in political research.
Social Science
Sophomore standing
4.00
Political thought and philosophy from antiquity to the present, including such thinkers as Aristotle, Locke, Marx and Nietzsche. The course will highlight major watersheds in political theory such as the Renaissance and the Reformation, and will also examine non-Western traditions. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
And one of the following:
GVT 110 or GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
This course will provide an examination of the institutions that are involved in the American policy-making process. The student will learn about the presidential, (as opposed to the parliamentary) system that exists in the United States. The course will focus on a relationship between the President and Congress and how that relationship impedes or facilitates the public policy process, including the budgetary process. The course will include a discussion of the presidents role as head of the executive branch, and the implementation of congressional policies. Attention will be given to the role of the judiciary in the policy process. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110, and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
Review of major approaches to the study of international relations. Definition of concepts such as power, nationalism, imperialism, and dependency. Special attention to the use of force and conflict resolution. Special class project. Normally offered every year.
Social Science
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
This course examines various methods of comparing political systems. Institutions such as executive departments, legislatures, court systems and local governmental systems are examined comparatively. It includes analysis of the impact of different economic systems on political/governmental institutions, and on economic circumstances that impact government. It also looks at political socialization both in terms of process and comparative content. An effort is made to include countries from all regions of the world. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 or GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
This course will provide an examination of the institutions that are involved in the American policy-making process. The student will learn about the presidential, (as opposed to the parliamentary) system that exists in the United States. The course will focus on a relationship between the President and Congress and how that relationship impedes or facilitates the public policy process, including the budgetary process. The course will include a discussion of the presidents role as head of the executive branch, and the implementation of congressional policies. Attention will be given to the role of the judiciary in the policy process. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
And one of the following:
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Historical overview of party development in the U.S. and of ideological and political trends as reflected in voting behavior. Recent developments in party structure, electoral strategies and political style. The party crisis vs. the art of political campaigning. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Not open to Freshmen
4.00
Analysis of Supreme Court decisions in regard to political and civil rights including freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion, obscenity, race and sex discrimination, and criminal procedure. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110, and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
Review of major approaches to the study of international relations. Definition of concepts such as power, nationalism, imperialism, and dependency. Special attention to the use of force and conflict resolution. Special class project. Normally offered every year.
Social Science
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
This course examines various methods of comparing political systems. Institutions such as executive departments, legislatures, court systems and local governmental systems are examined comparatively. It includes analysis of the impact of different economic systems on political/governmental institutions, and on economic circumstances that impact government. It also looks at political socialization both in terms of process and comparative content. An effort is made to include countries from all regions of the world. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
NOTE: The department offers all core requirements for the majors and minors at least once every academic year, but does not offer all of the core requirements each semester. Track requirements are also taught frequently but may only be offered in alternate years. Students are advised to complete track requirements as they are offered, and to make these courses, rather than electives, their first priority.
Government majors in all tracks who have an overall GPA of 3.0 and a GPA of 3.4 or better in the major will be eligible for honors. To achieve honors a student must write a senior thesis, under the direction of a faculty member of their choice. The topic of the thesis will be agreed upon by the student and faculty member. The student must register for a thesis course (GVT 555), in the first semester of the senior year. Once the course is completed, the student must submit the thesis to the department’s honors committee. All work must be submitted 5-6 weeks before the end of the student’s final semester. The committee will review each submission and examine each candidate during an oral presentation. The committee will determine whether or not the work submitted qualifies the student for departmental honors. The student will receive credit for the thesis course, whether or not honors are awarded. Applicants must have completed a minimum of two substantive upper level courses in the government department at Suffolk University prior to registering for GVT 555.
In special circumstances, particularly relating to transfer students, departmental honors may be awarded to a student who has not taken the thesis course or written a thesis. A senior may petition the honors committee for this option.
Pi Sigma Alpha is the national political science honor society. To be eligible for membership as an undergraduate, you must have earned at least 10 credits in government, and must either:
To apply, please submit official transcripts from all the colleges you have attended to the chapter sponsor, Professor Cobb.
4.00
Introduction to civil, criminal and constitutional law, with special focus on procedural law and the federal and state court systems. Limitations of the courts, forms of remedies, the law of equity and institutional sources of American law will also be studied. Introduction to judicial cases and brief writing. Normally offered each semester.
Social Science
4.00
This course examines criminal law in the United States from a broad perspective. It will present the general principles and doctrines that affect the whole criminal law, such as elements of criminal offenses, defenses to crime, and perspectives on crime and criminal law. In addition, students will learn the elements of specific crimes, such as homicide, criminal sexual conduct, terrorism and related crimes, crimes against public morals, and crimes against property. Discussions of the direction of the criminal law and constitutional limitations on government will be presented as preparation for future study.
Cultural Diversity Opt A
4.00
Introduces the student to the responsibilities of paralegals and to the culture of the legal profession. Topics include the development of paralegalism as a profession, the definition of the practice of law, ethical considerations, interviewing techniques, legal research, law office management, and client relationships. Normally offered each semester.
4.00
How to use the law library, perform legal research, write legal analysis in memorandum form, and use computers as a research tool. Initial focus is on learning how to find legal materials, including federal and state case law, statutory law, and administrative law. Use of finding tools such as digests, encyclopedias, and CALR will be studied, as will Shepardizing. Focus also on legal writing, from letters through case analysis. Normally offered fall semester. Sophomore Status Required
4.00
The Rules of Civil Procedure dictate the steps taken in state and federal lawsuits. This course will acquaint students with rules and the practical requirements of the rules, from filing a complaint to clarifying a judgment and to the duties of paralegals in a litigation office. Normally offered each semester.
Social Science
4.00
The existence and validity of a contract is determined by specific rules. Students will learn about formation through offer and acceptance, contract enforceability, the necessity of consideration, and breach of contract and will draft contract provisions as a paralegal might in a law office. Normally offered each semester. Sophomore status required.
Social Science
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360 or Instructors permission
4.00
State laws affect the disposition of an individuals estate at death, and upon death, the estate must be probated in court. Focus on estate information gathering, drafting of wills, and the probate of estates for those with and without wills. Emphasis on the role of the paralegal in a law office handling wills and probate. Prerequisites: ALS 360 or 363 or permission of instructor. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered yearly.
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360 or instructors permission
4.00
Corporations are unique business entities and specialized citizens of the state. This course will examine the special rules for establishing and maintaining a corporation, including the nature of corporations and their legal relationships with governments, individuals, and other business entities. Students will learn about the role of paralegals in corporate law offices, including document management and production, corporate litigation processes, and maintaining corporate compliance. Normally offered alternate years.
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360;
4.00
This course will present common law real estate principles and the effect of federal agencies on the buying and selling of real property. Sample forms including leases, purchase and sale agreements, and closing forms are reviewed and drafted. Normally offered alternate years.
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360;
4.00
Family law includes marriage, divorce, support, custody, property division, and abuse prevention petitions. Essentially an area of state law, it is often the backbone of general practice law firms. The role of paralegals in a family law office will be studied. Normally offered yearly.
Take ALS-362;
4.00
Many civil suits arise when the negligence of an individual creates injury to another. Elements of negligence law and specific types of cases such as automobile accidents and medical malpractice will be studied, with an emphasis on practical aspects of drafting and research for the prospective paralegal. Normally offered yearly.
Take ALS-362
4.00
The role of computers and software in the law office as it affects the paralegal Lectures and hands-on applications will focus on the changing technology of computer hardware through fact scenarios that students will use to track changes from introduction to resolution in litigation. Focus on software applications involving word processing, spreadsheets, billing, diary and scheduling, research, and use of the Internet. Normally offered alternate years.
4.00
The law dictates that corporations, arguably the most influential institutions of our time, can have only one goal: to maximize profits for their shareholders. Corporations have no general legal or moral obligation to the well-being of society or individual consumers. This means that, if corporations are to be restrained from maximizing profit by harming the public good, they must be regulated. When regulation fails, and dangerous products make it into the marketplace, consumers who are harmed can bring product liability lawsuits. Despite these facts, massive deregulation has occurred in the U.S. and tort reform threatens the ability of consumers to bring product liability lawsuits. Using the food and tobacco industries as case studies, we will examine the history of deregulation and tort reform and answer the following question: How can law and government be used to protect society and consumers by regulating a system programmed to ignore the welfare of everyone except shareholders?
ALS 362, or permission of instructor
4.00
Building on the skills introduced in ALS 362, Civil Litigation, this course will provide a thorough study of the rules of evidence, the process of discovery, and the preparation of a case for a trial, as well as the roles of arbitration, mediation, and negotiation in litigation and other legal disputes. Theory will be combined with practical applications for prospective paralegals, such as deposition abstracting, gathering and preserving evidence, and techniques on how to prepare a case for ADR. Normally offered yearly.
Senior standing and at least 15 hours of paralegal courses, or instructors permission.
4.00
A one-semester internship in either a law office, a governmental agency, insurance company, or a for-profit or non-profit corporation, depending on the positions available during each semester. Once a week seminars will discuss such topics as ethical considerations in a law office, experiences gained as a paralegal interns, and seeking paralegal employment. For specific placements/information, students must contact the Director of Paralegal Studies prior to the start of each semester. Prerequisites: Senior status and at least 15 hours of Paralegal Studies or permission of instructor. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered spring and summer. ECR
Expanded Classroom Requirement
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360;
4.00
Study of the immigration and nationality laws of the United States focusing on the interplay of the administrative agencies which administer those laws: Justice Department, Labor Department, and State Department. Topics include the immigrant selection system; the issuance of non-immigrant visas; grounds for excluding aliens and waiver of excludability; grounds for removal; change of status, and refugee and asylum status. Special emphasis on the paralegals role in representing and communicating sensitively with aliens. Normally offered yearly.
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360;
4.00
A survey of the law of the protection of ideas, trade secrets, inventions, artistic creations, and reputation. The course will briefly review the bases for patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret protection, the distinction among the various forms of intellectual property, and the statutory and common law methods of enforcing rights. Normally offered yearly.
Take ALS-361;
4.00
Building on the skills in ALS 361 - Legal Research & Writing I, this course continues the focus on learning how to find legal materials and how to summarize research results. Writing skills will be strengthened through various exercises and revisions. Skill development in legal analysis, writing legal memoranda, and using computer assisted legal research with Westlaw and Lexis will be emphasized. Normally offered spring semester.
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360; or instructors permission
4.00
An opportunity to learn the history of domestic violence including battering, child abuse and child neglect, and the legal response to it. Focus will be on Massachusetts Law and its response, especially the Abuse Prevention Act, its application and enforcement, and on laws protecting children from abuse and neglect. Filings, law office issues and special issues in dealing with battered women and abused and neglected children will be included with the psychological issues, cultural issues, and advocacy possibilities. Normally offered yearly. Sophomore status required. Cultural Diversity A
Cultural Diversity Opt A
Take ALS-264 or ALS-360 or instructors permission
4.00
With the globalization of the world economy, legal professional and business people require knowledge of international law more than ever. This course offers students a survey of selected materials in public international law. Covered will be the practical and theoretical issues of international law, from the Law of the Sea to business implications to definitions of war and international concepts of justice. Normally offered yearly.
Social Science
Instructors consent required
1.00- 4.00
Individual program of reading and research on an approved topic under the supervision of a member of the department. Only for qualified juniors or seniors. Offered every semester.
Social Science
4.00
Permaculture is the design of food systems and social structures to provide for human needs while restoring ecosystem health. Examining the interconnections between environmental, social and economic components, Permaculture is informed by the disciplines of systems ecology, ecological design and ethno-ecology.
4.00
An introduction to the American political system and constitutional framework. Focus will be on the interplay of various institutions (the Presidency, Congress and the Judiciary) in creating public policies. Contemporary public issues will be discussed, as will the role of political theory in shaping American democracy. Attention will be given to the role of the news media, public opinion, political ideology, political parties and interest groups in the American system.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Special honors section of GVT 110. Offered every fall.
Social Science
4.00
Building on the skills learned in GVT 110, students will be introduced to the subfields of political science and learn to analyze political writings. Focus will be on the use of the scientific method for research on politics and government. Students will learn the steps in writing a research paper, including developing the research question and selecting a research design. Attention will be given to the use of statistical analysis and public opinion polling in political research.
Social Science
4.00
A special honors section of Research Methods. Students will be introduced to the subfields of political science and learn to analyze political writings. Focus will be on the use of the scientific method for research on politics and government. Students will learn the steps in writing a research paper, including developing the research question and selecting a research design. Attention will be given to the use of statistical analysis and public opinion polling in political research.
Social Science
Sophomore Standing GVT 110 and 120 and Math 130 or higher.
4.00
This course is an introduction to statistics and empirical research methods generally used in political science. The course will emphasize the use of statistics and its value in substantive political science research. Statistics is a tool for drawing conclusions and making inferences from observable evidence. As well, the specification of conditions under which evidence is observed affects the conclusions and arguments that political scientists draw about how social and political processes work. The purpose of this course is to equip students with tools to interpret and conduct original data analysis, critique and make an argument based on data, and provide a view into the process of political science research and how political scientists use statistical methods and research design to answer substantive questions about politics. Since most applied data analysis utilizes data management software, students will learn how to use SPSS as a tool for conducting data analysis. Prerequisites: Sophomore Standing, GVT 110 and 120 and Math 130 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits.
Quantitative Reasoning
4.00
The relationship of women to their political culture and structures. The role of women seen in theory (e.g., Marxism, American feminism, existentialism) and in global comparative analysis. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course explores what major religions say about the status and responsibilities of the state and how, in turn, selective states have, in theory and practice, structured the place of religions in political life. Particular attention is given to issues of politics and religion in the United States. Cultural Diversity A
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 or GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
This course will provide an examination of the institutions that are involved in the American policy-making process. The student will learn about the presidential, (as opposed to the parliamentary) system that exists in the United States. The course will focus on a relationship between the President and Congress and how that relationship impedes or facilitates the public policy process, including the budgetary process. The course will include a discussion of the presidents role as head of the executive branch, and the implementation of congressional policies. Attention will be given to the role of the judiciary in the policy process. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors permission
4.00
An introduction to the process by which public policies are made in the United States. The class will focus on agenda-setting and policy formulation at the federal level, and will include a discussion of the various actors in governmental institutions that impact public policy. Several policy issues will be used as examples to illustrate the process. Some comparisons will be made to state and local policymaking. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course will explore the actions and words of a range of individuals who dared to be different in the hope of having an impact on U. S. politics and society. The expression of their views and actions may have initially been rejected. In other cases, their views served as catalysts for change.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
not open to freshmen
4.00
The growth of Constitutional law and the role of the Supreme Court is examined by analysis of court decisions dealing with Judicial Review, Federalism, Presidential and Congressional powers. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Not open to Freshmen
4.00
Analysis of Supreme Court decisions in regard to political and civil rights including freedom of speech, press, assembly and religion, obscenity, race and sex discrimination, and criminal procedure. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110/120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
The development, structure and functions of state governments with emphasis on the government of Massachusetts; the various forms of local government in cities and towns; analysis of the relationships between local, state and federal governments. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110, and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
Review of major approaches to the study of international relations. Definition of concepts such as power, nationalism, imperialism, and dependency. Special attention to the use of force and conflict resolution. Special class project. Normally offered every year.
Social Science
Sophomore standing
4.00
Political thought and philosophy from antiquity to the present, including such thinkers as Aristotle, Locke, Marx and Nietzsche. The course will highlight major watersheds in political theory such as the Renaissance and the Reformation, and will also examine non-Western traditions. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Sophomore Status Required
4.00
This course is designed to provide an intensive survey of minority politics in the political development of the United States. We will focus on the historical and contemporary experiences of several groups in American politics. In particular, the course will look at four groups that, for reasons of race, have been subjected to systematic discrimination and political subordination in U.S. history: American Indians, African Americans, Latino Americans, and Asian/Pacific Americans. In this course we will work toward an understanding of American politics from the point of view of politically active and engaged persons of color. This course will also take a close look at the future of race and ethnicity in American politics. It is a fundamental premise of this course that an understanding of race and minority politics is necessary to comprehensively understand American political development and many important issues in contemporary American politics. Cultural Diversity A
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The law affects and is affected by public policy. Beyond this, the law affects, and is affected by, many other disciplines. Understanding the evolving relationship among public policy, law and psychology in the US is integral to both disciplines. This course explores contemporary forensic psychologys role in the legal system - e.g., jury selection; expert witnesses; biases; crime control vs. due process, etc. through readings, class discussion, occasional audio-visual material and guest speakers if and when appropriate and available. Normally offered every other year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or consent of instructor.
4.00
This course examines various methods of comparing political systems. Institutions such as executive departments, legislatures, court systems and local governmental systems are examined comparatively. It includes analysis of the impact of different economic systems on political/governmental institutions, and on economic circumstances that impact government. It also looks at political socialization both in terms of process and comparative content. An effort is made to include countries from all regions of the world. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Theories dealing with the process of political change in countries of the Third World: the impact of the military, traditional culture and institutions, economic problems, strong personalities and other factors on political life and institutions. Prerequisite: Not open to freshmen. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
4.00
Methods and practices of interest groups trying to influence legislative and administrative decision making; methods and practices of public agencies trying to influence governmental policies; the military industrial complex and other cases on federal and state levels. Normally Offered every third year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course examines womens issues and roles in the public policy process. Topics will include policies that affect women, such as child care and reproductive issues. Emphasis will also be placed on womens roles in the policy process, as citizens, voters, and public officials. Prerequisite: Open to non-majors; not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity A
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt A,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 and GVT 261
4.00
This course examines the dynamic evolution of the debates on International Security as well as the transformations in the main global and regional security institutions such as UN and NATO. Based upon International Relations perspectives, it analyzes the traditional definitions of security at the national, regional and international levels of analysis since 1945. Likewise, it studies how states and international institutions have revisited the concepts, policies and strategies of security since the end of the Cold War and after the September 11 events, from realist perspectives to the Copenhagen School of security studies. Offered every year.
Social Science
GVT 281 and GVT 261 or instructors consent
4.00
This course explores the main premises and approaches to study Global Political Economy. After analyzing the history and development of the international system, it studies how states and markets are interconnected in the creation and reform of economic and political international institutions in the globalization process. It also focuses on the most acute problems of the current international system in the area of IPE, namely, environmental degradation, external debt, poverty, increasing gap between rich and poor countries, and trade conflicts. Offered every year.
Social Science
Open to Juniors and Seniors
4.00
An analysis of the origins and the local, regional, and international dimensions of the Palestinian-Israeli-Arab conflict, this course will examine the conflict through the eyes of the major protagonists and the roles played by them from the early twentieth century to the present: Zionists/Israelis, Palestinians and other Arabs, British, Americans, Soviets. We will also explore the questions of why this conflict has captured the worlds attention and why it has gone unresolved since World War II. Finally, we will examine the possibilities and attempts for resolution of what appears to be an intractable human tragedy.
Social Science
4.00
This course examines the main political, economic and social trends in the European Union, Latin America and the United States as well as the multiples interactions among them since the end of the Cold War. The readings are structured in two main sections. After briefly reviewing the historical development of these three partners on both sides of the Atlantic in the past five decades, the first section identifies the key processes that are defining the main characteristics of Europe (deepening vs. widening), United States (isolationism vs. internationalism) and Latin America (democracy vs. social equality). The second part of the course explains the tendencies and contradictions in the construction of the external relations of the European Union towards the United States and Latin America, from the cooperation and competition in development of a safe and free Europe in the 1990s to the acrimonious debate about the 2003 Iraq invasion and the prospects of the 2006 EU-Latin America Vienna Summit, among other important events.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The overall goal of this course is to understand why 1968 is considered one of the most tumultuous years in the 20th century as regards the news media; music and theater; television and film censorship; and in the shift in culture and mores of an entire subset of the population. The course will focus on specific touchstones that elucidate the communication to both the mainstream public, know broadly as the Silent Majority, and the new emerging boomers, whose values and attitudes still drive the media ten years into the 21st century. Students will learn how a single year of media can change forever how one part of a culture views itself, while at the same time discovering how another part of that same culture continues to resist those changes 40 years later. Students will learn how many of the seeds of ideas they take for granted in 2011, including educational and sports equality (Title 9) for women; environmental sensitivity, and gay rights were planted in the print, films and music of 1968, but didnt bloom until the years which followed. Guest speakers, films and lectures will be used to reinforce material from the texts.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
OPEN TO JUNIORS & SENIORS
4.00
Everything needed to design, carry out, and interpret a political survey. Topics covered will include questionnaire design, sampling, interviewing, coding data, and univariate and bivariate analysis of the results. Multivariate analysis will be discussed but not studied in-depth. An actual survey will be conducted as a class project. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
Defamation, privacy, copyright, pornography, incitement to lawless conduct and harassment are six areas in which first Amendment freedoms historically have been constrained to some degree. The constraints have been worked out largely through judicial decisions issued over the last century. This course would look at the traditional interests that were balanced to produce the constraints, the Internets impact on those interests and whether the impact suggests the need for rebalancing.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
Prerequisites: Not open to freshmen
4.00
This course provides and overview of the legal system in the United States of America, in connection with the role of the Federal and State government and their policy. This course is designed for undergraduate and graduate students. During the semester, we will explore a variety of issues involving the legal system of the United States and how it effects local and federal government.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
A course about how the constitution, common law and statutory law provide for environmental protection and pollution prevention. Students will learn basic skills needed to understand how environmental law works, including constitutional clauses and amendments, landmark civil litigation, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, landmark civil litigation, and hazardous waste law.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This basis of this course will be in-depth examinations of various conspiracies in American Politics and Culture, beginning with the Salem Witch Trials through the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy and the Sacco & Vanzetti case through the present day. Present day conspiracies will include an examination of the JFK and RFK Assassinations, the Pentagon Papers case, the Watergate Conspiracy, the Iran/Contra scandal, Whitewater and the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy, the World Trade Center bombing, the Oklahoma City Bombing, Global Warming, and the 9/11 Investigation.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
4.00
Policies of the present United States health care system critically analyzed and compared with other national systems. Current reform proposals receive special attention. Prerequisite: Open to non-majors, not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course begins with the premise that leadership is a continuous process, and that leadership can be studied, analyzed, and learned, across the public (as well as private for profit, and private non-profit) sectors. The first half of the course will, following the Northouse, Burns, and Gardner texts, delve into various theories of leadership, including the traits, skills, style, and situational approaches. We will also cover gender differences in leadership studies, and leadership ethics. The second half of the course will deal with transformational leadership, and real life (historical and recent) examples of political leadership, including Nelson Mandela, J. Robert Oppenheimer, George Washington, Margaret Thatcher, and others. There will also be in-class discussions on current challenges in public policy, asking students to envision what leadership skills they have studied that could come into play in solving these public policy challenges. During the second half of the course, students will be required to interview a leader of their choice, and, utilizing the material covered during the course, write a paper based on the interview.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
Not open to freshmen
4.00
Public policy-makers interests in formulating and implementing policy in the areas of environmental protection, consumer protection, equal employment opportunity, health care, taxation and competition with a focus on business responsibility will be critically analyzed. Costs and benefits to the public and business will be evaluated. Prerequisite: Open to non-majors; not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 OR GVT 120
4.00
This course represents a unique opportunity for students to develop a general understanding of the relationship between politics and the community; a systematic and holistic way of viewing and analyzing the impact of community- based, community-wide organizations and efforts. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
Contemporary state court processes, progress and problems including trial and appellate court practice, procedure and participants; plea bargaining, alternative dispute resolution; policy making. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course will teach the students the importance of legislative advocacy to effect political and policy change and the important role advocacy plays in making our democracy transparent and accessible. The course will explore the various role and interplay between the political branches and the functions they perform individually as part of the overall democratic/political system. Through a combination of lecture, guest speakers, observation attendance at legislative sessions and hearing; and journal keeping, students will learn and see first-hand how local government, grassroots organizations, media, and one citizen can bring about change, solve problems, and make a positive contribution to our community.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
4.00
In this course we will examine the latest developments in interest group politics, including trends in grassroots organization, mobilization, and lobbying; fundraising; advocacy by nonprofit organizations; the growth of issues management; changing regulations; ethical considerations; and the evolving relationships between advocacy and electoral organizations. We will make extensive use of amateur and professional advocates and lobbyists as guest speakers. Students will be expected to write a research paper on some aspect of the current politics of advocacy and lobbying.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
GVT 110 AND GVT 120 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Perspectives on the role and problems of the presidency in American political life; the nature and difficulties of presidential influence and effectiveness, presidential authority within our system of government, and the impact of presidential character. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 and GVT 120 or instructors consent
4.00
The structure and functioning of legislatures. Particular emphasis on the U.S. Congress, how it works and how it compares with other legislatures. The role of legislatures in a democracy. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GOV 110, GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Covers the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, known as the Reconstruction amendments. This course focuses upon these three critical amendments, with an eye towards their importance in framing race-based rights, and the 14th with regard to gender-based rights. It emphasizes the politics of these amendments language, ratification, and impact (including their 130-year interpretation by the Supreme Court.) The course treats the U.S. Constitution dynamically, as a political and social educator. It also examines the extent to which the Constitution could be viewed as race- or gender-blind.
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The object of this course is to teach the students the history of the District and Municipal Courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the important role they play in their respective communities throughout the state. The course will explore the various departments within each court and the functions they perform individually and as part of the overall court system. Through a combination of lecture, guest speakers, courtroom observation and journal keeping, students will learn and see first-hand how the local community courts dispenses justice, solves problems and makes a positive contribution to the communities they serve.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
GVT 110, 120, 243, and 244 or instructors permission
4.00
A critical analysis of whether our constitutional system is adequate to effectively resolve the new and complex problems of governance in this century. The strengths and weaknesses of governmental structure created by the U.S. Constitution will be examined. Past and current amendment proposals will receive special attention. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
SOPH STANDING REQUIRED
4.00
A countrys popular culture offers significant and accurate insights into the political values, attitudes and beliefs of its people at a given point in time. One form of popular culture, films, can be a powerful disseminator of political messages. This course will examine a number of different eras and political themes as they have been reflected through films in the U.S. Open to non-majors.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 AND GVT 120, or instructors consent
4.00
Historical overview of party development in the U.S. and of ideological and political trends as reflected in voting behavior. Recent developments in party structure, electoral strategies and political style. The party crisis vs. the art of political campaigning. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110/120 OR INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION Junior status or above
4.00
This course examines the political process and problems characteristic of big cities in the United States today. Students are encouraged to do individual and group research on specific urban political topics. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 OR GVT 120
4.00
This course will explore the influence of the media on contemporary political issues and public opinion; and the use of media in political campaigns, advertising, etc. Topics may include the impact of talk radio, the issue of the media bias, the role of television, the Hollywood connection, etc. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
How are elections administered in the United States? Do Americans have confidence in the electoral process? Should they? Why or why not? This course will examine elections in the United States in detail -- from how they are funded to how they are administered to how voters behave. Students will have a choice of either serving as poll workers during the November election or organizing and conducting research of potential voters. Students will gain hands-on experience in actual research design, election administration, and non-partisan get-out-the-vote activities. In addition, students will gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between attitudes, opinion, and voting behavior in American politics and institutions. ECR
Humanities & History,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 and GVT 261
4.00
A decision-making approach to understanding the domestic and institutional context of U.S. foreign policy. Includes analysis of continuity and change since WWII using case studies of critical decisions, e.g., Korea, Cuba, Vietnam, etc. Not open to freshmen. Prerequisites: GVT 110, GVT 120, GVT 261 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every year.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 OR GVT347; SOPH STANDING
4.00
This course examines fundamental framework, legislative oversight of the Executive Branch and basic functions of the Massachusetts Legislative. Special emphasis will be placed on gaining a practical understanding of the Massachusetts legislative process. Students are encouraged to explore the methods by which the major legislative measures are undertaken, various roles of legislative leaders, committee hearings and the procedures that are used under the Massachusetts General Laws. Open to non-majors. Offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course is designed to provide students with a basic grounding in political institutions and processes in contemporary Spain. Political developments are presented in their socio-economic context, with special emphasis on the Spanish transition from a dictatorship to a democracy. Attention is also given to the issue of the Basque and Catalan nationalism, as well as the process of European integration. Prerequisite: GVT 281 or instructors consent. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered alternate years at the Madrid Campus.
Social Science
Instructors approval required
4.00
This course is a comprehensive introduction to the economies and ecology of water supply and water pollution control. Topics include watershed management, groundwater protection, and wastewater treatment. The inherent difficulty in applying static laws and regulations to a dynamic natural resource such as water is a recurring theme in the course. Strongly recommended for students interested in environmental management. Normally offered every years. The course available through the Marine Studies Consortium and will be taught on the campus of one of the Consortiums member institutions.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Instructors Consent
4.00
This course presents a survey of a coastal environment, its physical characteristics, natural systems, economic uses, and development pressures. Lectures examine strategies formulated in the U.S. for land and water resource management in the coastal zone. The roles of federal, state and local government, environmental groups and resource users are also explored. Finally, by comparing coastal zone management problems in the U.S. to those elsewhere in the world, students gain a global perspective. Normally offered every years. The course available through the Marine Studies Consortium and will be taught on the campus of one of the Consortiums member institutions.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
Why did 17 European countries surrender the sovereign control of their currency and create the Euro? Will Turkey become a member of the European Union? Will Europeans continue free riding the security protection of the United States? Is the integration process another layer of bureaucracy or an institutional instrument to dean with the permanent crises in Europe? There are some of the questions guiding the discussions in the class.
Social Science
GVT 110 and GVT 120
4.00
The political development of Africa in colonial and post-colonial periods. Analysis of the evolution of governmental institutions includes economic, social and personal factors; political forces at work in present day Africa. Not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
4.00
This course will explore the role played by the United States in the Middle East in the twentieth century, with emphasis on the period since World War II. Our study will begin with a decision-making approach to understanding the domestic and institutional context of Americas policy toward the region, followed by an examination of that policy as it confronted radical nationalist, socialist, and Islamic movements, Soviet influence, and specific contemporary problems - the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Lebanese civil war, the Iranian revolution, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Gulf War. Open to non-majors, not open to freshmen. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Not open to freshmen.
4.00
This course will examiner political and economic institutions of newly independent entities from Kazakhstan to the Baltics. It will include historical roots of the Soviet Union from the Russian Revolution through the Gorbachev years. Attention will be paid to Marxist theory and non-Marxist challenges for the economy of the area as well as the state. While some of attention will be paid to foreign relations of the former Soviet Union and the current regimes with Western Europe and the U.S. and elsewhere, the major emphasis will be on domestic policy on citizens of the former Soviet Union. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science
GVT 281 or instructors consent. Junior status or above
4.00
current political trends in the Caribbean and in selected Central American nations. Emphasis will be placed on comparative analysis of public policies in the region, as well as on external factors which impact on politics in the Caribbean and Central America. Students will use academic sources in their analysis, as well as novels and other literary sources for the background of their analysis. Not open to freshmen. Normally offered every third year. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
4.00
This course will examine US relations with East Asia through the lens of leading International Relations theories. We will analyze the growing regional influence of China, and will also examine the foreign policies of major regional powers including South and North Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. By exploring the economic and political factors that are working to shape the dynamic East Asian regional order, we will gain an understanding of the challenges faced by the US in this economically and strategically pivotal region.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
Emphasis on a particular approach to the problems of economic modernization and political development. Historical background; the revolutionary movement; present political structures and current issues. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,Asian Studies
4.00
Utilizing the theoretical frameworks of Comparative Politics and International Relations, this course will focus on a critical analysis of contemporary forms of resistance politics, such as those culminating in popular struggles for peace, democracy, human rights, economic justice, gender equality, environment, and the rights of indigenous peoples.
Social Science
GVT 110/120 or Instructors permission
4.00
This course examines the Canadian model of incorporating diverse communities into its constitutional and political framework, including the founding British North American Act of 1867, the 1982 Constitution Act, and two later attempts at constitutional reform. Canadas role in balancing two official languages, English and French, is discussed, as is its recognition of a First Nations native-governed territory in the Arctic. This course introduces students to the Canadian polity and compares its parliamentary system with the U.S. separation of powers system. Prerequisites: GVT 110, GVT 120 or instructors consent. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 281 or instructor consent
4.00
This course examines the evolution of Latin America in the context of globalization. The first part analyzes the main political and economic trends of Latin America as a region, while the second presents the main challenges Mexico is facing today in the area of security. The third part moves forward into the detailed explanation of the transformations of the largest South American countries such as Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Venezuela, among others. The final section looks at the relationship between Latin America and the United States.
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
4.00
What is the role of the international community in nation building? Who are the key nation building actors? Who should pay for nation building? How long should it take? And what are the main reasons for success and failure in nation building? This course will investigate these questions, looking especially at the cases of the former Soviet Central Asia and Afghanistan. Students will learn about one of the most pressing issues of the contemporary world, with an eye toward helping students navigate a globalized world.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
This course discusses terrorism and extremism in South and Central Asia as forms of political violence and its effects on the security of the region and the world. Students will develop a working definition of terrorism and extremism and analyze tenets of states security policies. They will study the history of origin, political, economic and social causes of terrorism, the nature of Islamist terrorist organizations, their strategic goals, motivations, and the threats they pose to peace and development from the point of view of international relations and comparative politics. On the base of case studies and class discussions, students examine theories and instances of ideological, religious, and political extremism as a foundation for terrorism. Through thorough investigation of different cases students will acquire unique knowledge of the Al-Qaeda threat in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia, as well as activities of groups as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, Lashkar-e-Taiba and others.
SOPH STANDING REQUIRED
4.00
The course will survey various theories of nationalism and ethnic conflict and test their applicability to a number of contemporary cases. After a look at the sources of ethnic conflict within a particular country we will examine the way in which the international system reacted. Special attention will be paid to conflicts that have or have had a U.S. diplomatic dimension, namely Northern Ireland and Israel/Palestinian territories. Open to non-majors.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
This class will examine the techniques used to market political candidates, parties, issues, interest groups and think tanks in the modern American polity, as well as in Canada and the EU. The class will examine the causes and impact of the change that many observers have seen in the American polity from a civil to a consumptive political culture and question the extent to which this is a U.S. based versus more global phenomenon. At the same time, the class will aim to provide the student will a hands-on understanding of the way in which various marketing techniques are employed to sell politics. The techniques will include message development, branding, micro-targeting, and political marketing campaign strategy by looking at a series of cases from around the world. Cases examined will include the Barack Obama , Hillary Clinton and John McCain campaigns from 2008, the effort to brand the Conservative Party and New Labour in the United Kingdom.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
What is the next version of government? How will emerging technologies impact how governments at all levels function? What are government leaders (elected and otherwise) doing to transform the way government operates? This course will cover the historical applications of technology in government, pointing to various models used by all levels of government (Federal, State, and Local). National and international e-Government examples and case studies will be examined to show the most and least effective implementations. It will primarily be a discussion about what Gov 2.0 has meant and will mean as new technologies emerge.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course focuses on the historical origins, evolution, and current trajectory of the North Korean state. Topics include history, social structure, the interplay of culture and ideology, political economy, humanitarian issues, security, and the politics of North Korean domestic and foreign policy. We will spend considerable time analyzing North Koreas relationship with regional and world powers and examining the origins, history, and implications of their nuclear weapons program. Students will be expected to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical and historical knowledge toward analyzing the rapidly evolving landscape of contemporary issues related to North Korea.
Social Science
4.00
The rise of the Green Party, from its grass-roots beginnings to participation in the federal government. Background on the development of green consciousness in Germany and Europe since the early 20th century. Present governmental policies and programs (e.g., alternative energy sources, organic farming, recycling, dismantling of nuclear power). Cross-listed GER 420 and ENST 420
Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
This course focuses on the Congressional leadership, parties in Congress and their impact on political interactions, and public policy. The course will examine the relationship between the leadership in the Congress and the powerful elements in the House and Senate such as committee chairmen and the party caucuses as well as the media and lobbyists. Emphasis is on the decades long trend toward greater political polarization and its impact on the ability of the institution to respond effectively current national problems.
Take GVT-110
4.00
Focus is on the federal budget process, political interactions, and public policy outcomes. The budget represents nearly one-quarter of GDP making those decisions central to the functioning of our democracy and the health of our economy. Emphasis is on the Congressional budget process, appropriations process, and revenue decision-making because the Constitution establishes Congress as the guardian of the nations purse strings.
BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE,Social Science
TAKE GVT 110
4.00
This course will examine the changes in the US Congress in recent years, as both party unity and party polarization have grown, with particular attention to the evolution of Senate rules as the need for a 60-vote majority has become a given.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course will explore legal issues affecting campaigns and elections. Among the topics covered will be the legal requirements to qualify for the ballot, campaign finance laws, challenges to candidates and ballot questions, and election recounts. Special emphasis will be given to the 2000 Presidential Recount in Florida.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This course examines how American governmental institutions, political actors, and processes have both shaped and responded to one of the most significant and complex issues of public policy facing the nation: immigration to the United States. This class will explore a number of intriguing and difficult policy topics related to the almost unprecedented level of immigration that the U.S. has been experiencing. The focus of the class will include the following: admissions, citizenship, deportation and detention (including that of suspected terrorists), refugee/asylum law, and highly contested issues of today, such as definitions of citizenship, immigrant rights, and border enforcement. A major objective of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to conduct their own original research in American politics by delving into some aspect of immigration as a public policy issue.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 110 OR GVT 120 OR GVT 223 OR GVT 224
4.00
Public policys impact on Blacks Chicanos, Native Americans Puerto Ricans, and other minority groups; how public policy has contributed to racial oppression; policies for attaining racial equality; political strategies of minority groups. Cultural Diversity A
Cultural Diversity Opt A,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
This course will have a service learning component Sophomore Status required
4.00
From Rio to the Boston Harbor Project, this course examines the policies and politics of the environment. It examines the origins of the environmental movement in the United States focusing on the development and present function of government and non-government organizations responsible for the development and implementation of global, national, state and local environmental policies.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
In the 20th century the general public became aware of the need for following a sustainable lifestyle. Non-governmental organizations, governmental institutions and individuals began to study environmental problems and issues to enhance the concept of conservation of nature and the protection of the planets biodiversity among other important concepts. However, as we enter the 21st century, we are finding ourselves involved in new environmental threats such as increasingly disturbing natural disasters, eco-terrorism and endless extreme poverty. This course is aimed at learning the basic environmental aspects that affect society and nature as a whole, along with the new issues that are arising and leading scientists to continue new lines of research in the field of environmental conservation and awareness, knowing also that the key to hope lies in the field of environmental education. Offered on the Madrid Campus only.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
This class will examine the role of lobbyist and the media in influencing state and national decision makers and public policy. Focusing primarily on current issues relating to energy and environmental policy, we will discuss and critically examine all sides of todays hot topics- renewable power, climate change, sustainability and others. The goal is not to determine who is right and who is wrong, but rather to get behind the headlines and separate fact from hype and discuss how and why certain policy decisions are made and how policy makers are influenced. Youll gain an appreciation as to how public opinion, lobbyists and the media (even celebrities!) can actually change government priorities- and not always for the better, as rising public opinion and political pressure often collides with well established scientific evidence.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
This year, Bostons longest-serving mayor of 20 years, Thomas Menino, announced he would not seek re-election. Twelve candidates are now vying to be mayor of Boston. Boston is among the most educated cities and is an epicenter for research and development, building an innovation economy of engagement, community networks, and collaboration. Yet it faces a variety of challenges. Boston also counts itself as third most unequal cities in the United States in terms of income inequality. Can Boston sustain its success while also lifting more of its population out of poverty? This course examines these questions by focusing attention on the 2013 mayoral election. What prescriptions for success and visions for the future of Boston do the various candidates offer? What constituencies vote? How will the successful candidate craft a winning coalition? Guest speakers, including candidates, local media analysts, and policy makers will highlight key aspects of the urban issues we will examine. Neighborhood visits and a variety of readings will round out the course. For any student interested in the interplay between politics, local government and the global economy, this course is for you.
Junior standing
4.00
Political campaigns aim for votes, but they run on money. This course will introduce students to the basic elements of political fundraising: how to identify potential donors, small personal appeals through events to direct mail, along with the basic legal rules about fundraising, such as contribution limits, record keeping and reporting requirements. Students in this course will also examine the influence of money and PACs on politics and public policy, and will consider the relative advantages and disadvantages of other possible systems of campaign finance, both as practiced today in other countries and as proposed by reformers in the United States.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 261. Junior status or above
4.00
The objective of this course is to analyze the mechanisms and processes of diplomacy. It provides a sense of the evolution of statecraft, and it seeks to assess the utility of different approaches to the development of foreign policy and to examine the successes and failures of these approaches in different circumstances. Prerequisite: GVT 281 or instructors consent. Open only to Juniors and Seniors. 1 term - 4 credits.
Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
This course explains the main components of the international legal system. It begins by exploring the rules, principles and norms that govern the relationship among states, the different cultural and philosophical legal perspectives and the history of the international legal system. The second part of the course covers the study of the sources and subjects of the international law, the jurisdiction of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the use of force and the legal personality of international actors. The third part of the course addresses a number of significant topics derived from the process of globalization legal norms: human rights, humanitarian intervention, law of the sea, environmental law, and economic relations.
Social Science
GVT-261
4.00
This course explores the institutional structures, political processes, and impact of international governmental and nongovernmental organizations. It analyzes their increasingly prominent role in efforts to resolve a wide range of global problems and contribution to strengthen the current system of global governance. While the course covers the problems of international security, global distribution of wealth, deterioration of the environmental system, and threats to social welfare, it focuses on the interaction between the United Nations System and regional organizations, on the one hand, and the role of non-governmental organizations in cooperating or competing to solve specific problems in the area of international relations.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
GVT 261
4.00
This course examines the intertwined nature of the globalization and regionalization processes from the perspective of global political economy. The first part of the course provides the basic elements and indicators to understand the main challenges the international economy is facing such as crisis, protectionism, and underdevelopment, inter alia. The second part presents the evolution of globalization and regionalism in the past decades. The third and final section compares how the distinct regions in the world are dealing with local and global problems; particularly attention is paid to the European Union, NAFTA, Mercosur and APEC.
Social Science
Junior status
4.00
This class examines the political ramifications o social movements primarily but not exclusively within the United States. It looks at ideology, beliefs and mechanisms of mobilization. Another important focus is an analysis of non-white social movements in this country and their impact on domestic politics. Among the movements to be examined are: the Pan-African movement 1919-1939 which will, to some extent, take us outside this country; the U.S. Civil Rights Movement 1955 to 1969 which covers the rise of the Black Power movement; and the U.S. Labor Movement 1900 to 1955 in terms of non-white influence on its programmatic goals. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior Standing or Instructors consent. Ends April 20, 2010.
4.00
This seminar will explore actors and issues in the context of the United Nations system in connection with humanitarian governance challenges. We will examine theoretical, political, legal issues and institutional issues, then analyze protection, civil-military relations in peace operations. UN and other peace operations and responsibility to protect will be analyzed, and hard choices for all those who wish that globalization should be more humane, and who are interested to confront moving targets and evolving challenges of humanitarian governance, including dilemmas of not doing harm, when intending to do good, in international humanitarian engagement. With humanitarian actions new power comes knowledge that even the most well-intentioned projects can create as many problems as they solve. Are unforeseen consequences, blind spots, and biases of humanitarian work--from focusing too much on rules and too little on results? Students are expected to actively participate in interactive, visual and practical simulation exercises and role plays of humanitarian emergency operations Previous relevant knowledge/experience desirable.
Social Science
GVT 261 Junior status or above
4.00
An examination of human rights at the end of the 20th century. Attention will be given to the origin and expansion of the concept of human rights in different political systems, the links between culture and human rights and the means and mechanisms for safeguarding human rights with particular reference to the United Nations system.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
take gvt-110, gvt-120, or instructors consent for non majors. Junior status or above
4.00
In this course, students will have an opportunity to examine the basic foundations of the democratic theory and practice. Specifically, this course will focus on building blocks of a democratic relationship between people and government, including transparency, accountability, accessibility, and opportunities for effective advocacy and participation. Both classical and modern authors who have weighed in on these issues will be discussed. Normally offered alternate years.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
When the German Democratic Republic was founded in 1949, observers in the West viewed it as an artificial construct created to serve the needs of the Soviet empire. The self-image of the GDR as created by its leadership revolved around the idea of an anti-fascist German state designed as a bulwark against any revival of National Socialism. Over a generation after the fall of the Berlin Wall, it is possible to undertake a dispassionate analysis of the forty-year history of the ?other? German state as manifested in its cultural identity and political role during the Cold War.
Social Science
4.00
Why did 17 European countries surrender the sovereign control of their currency and create the Euro? Will Turkey become a member of the European Union? Will Europeans continue free riding the security protection of the United States? Is the integration process another layer of bureaucracy or an institutional instrument to dean with the permanent crises in Europe? There are some of the questions guiding the discussions in the class.
Social Science
TAKE GVT-281 OR INSTRUCTORS CONSENT
4.00
Interlocking themes making the contemporary Middle East an area of chronic conflict: Big Power rivalries; social and political change within individual countries; unity and Arab rivalry involved in Arab nationalism; the Palestinian-Israeli-Arab dispute. Normally offered alternate years. Cultural Diversity B
Cultural Diversity Opt B,Social Science
not open to freshmen
4.00
This course explores the political and cultural history of Islam, with emphasis on the contemporary Islamic resurgence in Muslim countries. The origins and causes of this resurgence, its aims, and its effects on domestic, regional, and world politics will be examined. Offered as needed. Cultural Diversity B
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt B,Asian Studies
4.00
What is the relationship between philosophy and Islam? Does the divine law (Sharia) need to be supplemented with purely rational reflections on the nature and purpose of political life? What is the place of toleration and individual rights in the Islamic legal and philosophic tradition? We will explore these and similar questions by focusing on two particularly fertile periods of Islamic thought--the encounter of Islam with Greek philosophy in the classical period and its encounter with modern secular West in late modernity.
Social Science
This course fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement. Instructors consent is required.
4.00
An intensive off-campus experience, normally of two-weeks duration, arranged through a qualified agency in Washington, D.C. Topics vary. Students will be graded by both an on-site evaluator and an assigned Government Department faculty member. Students are normally required to keep a journal of the off-campus experience and to write a significant research paper based on the topic of the academic seminar upon their return.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Requires Instructors consent
1.00- 2.00
An off-campus experience, normally of one-week duration, arranged through a qualified agency in Washington D.C. Topics vary. Students will be graded by both an on-site evaluator and an assigned Government Department faculty member. A writing assignment is usually required upon completion of the seminar.
Social Science
6.00
An opportunity to do an internship through the Washington Center at either the Republican National Convention or the Democratic National Convention. College students will learn what goes on behind the scenes and interact with important public figures that are influential in setting public policy at various levels of government. They spend a week prior to the convention studying the electoral process, familiarizing themselves with conventions operations and preparing for their convention fieldwork assignments. In addition, they hear from a wide variety of speakers, including members of the media, party officials, and other political personalities. Students are then assigned as volunteers to assist with the work of the convention during the second week.
Social Science
INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION This course fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement
4.00
APPROVAL OF DEPT. CHAIRPERSON. Specially arranged study trip to a foreign country for the purpose of obtaining knowledge through direct experience and observation. Includes prearranged site visits, meetings, required reading and written assignments. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Instructors consent
4.00
This course provides an introduction to the study of the role of the United Nations System in the globalization era. The course is divided in two main sections. The first is based on a series of readings, lectures and discussion on the rules, principles and norms which govern the relationship among states and the UN system; it also covers traditional topics such as the sources and subjects of international law, the jurisdiction of states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the use of force and the legal personality of international actors, human rights, humanitarian intervention, global environment, used of armed forces, as well as economic relations. The second part of the course is based on a required study trip to the UN headquarters in order to experience a direct contact with policy-makers within the UN system in a diversity of areas such as security, aid and peacekeeping areas.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Instructors consent required
1.00- 4.00
Individual program of reading and research on an approved topic under the supervision of a member of the department. Only for qualified juniors or seniors. Offered every semester.
Social Science
Junior status or above
4.00
This course is fast-paced, highly interactive, multi-media and thought provoking. We apply the traditional academic requirements at The Washington Center, while adding the unique elements that allow you to connect with students at other universities. This course offers interesting guests, lively discussions, thoughtful debates, historic video from C-SPAN and the National Archives. As we examine and analyze the political, legislative and social issues facing our country, we will take an in-depth look at the issues and events shaping the agenda for next Congress & the next round of elections. Our focus will also include the historical process of public policy making, as well as an intense examination on the changing role of media, especially social media, in shaping public opinion.
1.00
This course is designed to provide all Government degree-seeking students with a team-taught capstone experience. In this course, we will collectively discuss and consider career, professional and academic experience for the Government major, including learning more about the fields of public policy, public service, law, nonprofit management, international development, and nongovernmental organization management. This course focuses on career entry and transition, networking for career success, impression management concept and skills, and related life-long learning skills. Students articulate and reflect on academic, work, and co-curricular experiences from the perspective of professionals entering or advancing their careers. Pre-requisite: Senior standing.
Social Science
Junior standing
4.00
Approximately 12 hours a week working in a position that offers the student significant opportunity to learn about politics and/or government. Interested students should consult instructor in advance. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Juniors standing and instructors permission required
12.00
A full-time, one-semester internship in Washington, D.C. Consult the Department office for more details. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
This course fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement
8.00
A full-time summer internship in Washington D.C. Consult the Department for more details. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Concurrent enrollment in GVT 523 or GVT 524
4.00
ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Juniors standing; GVT 528 & GVT 529 Concurrent
8.00
A full-time, one-semester International Internship in London.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Juniors standing; GVT 528 & GVT 529 Concurrent
8.00
A full-time, one-semester International Internship in London.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Concurrently with GVT 526 or GVT 530 and GVT 529
4.00
One of two required seminars to be taken by International interns and service learning participation. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Concurrently with GVT 526 or GVT 530 and GVT 528
4.00
One of two required seminars to be taken by International interns and service learning participation ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Must be taken concurrently with GVT 528 and 529. Junior Standing.
8.00
Full-time, international service-learning in one of several countries. Consult the Government Department office for more details.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
8.00-12.00
This course combines a two week seminar in Washington, DC, with a 32 hour per week political internship in London for the rest of the semester. The focus is on understanding British politics and government in a comparative context. Prerequisites: simultaneous enrollment in GVT 528 and consent of instructor. 1 term - 12 credits.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Juniors standing; GVT 528 & GVT 529 Concurrent
8.00
A full-time, one-semester International Internship in London.
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Juniors & Seniors, normally must be taken concurrently GVT 529
8.00
A full-time, one-semester International Internship. Consult the Department office for more details. Prerequisites: Junior or Senior standing. Normally must be taken with GVT 528 and GVT 529. ECR
Social Science,Expanded Classroom Requirement
Instructors consent required
4.00
Individual program of reading, research, writing on an approved topic under the supervision of a member of the department, for students in all tracks who meet the criteria for departmental honors and who wish to prepare a thesis for submission to the honors committee. Must be taken in the first semester of the senior year. Prerequisites: Grade point average 3.0 overall, 3.4 in major; completion of a minimum of 6 credits in Government at Suffolk University; advisors signed consent; application approved by honors committee in spring of applicants junior year. 1 term - 4 credits. Normally offered every fall.
Social Science
