College of Leadership and Public Service

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Political Science (POL)
Political science is the study of human behavior as it relates to government and politics. Dakota Wesleyan University offers a minor in political science as well as a series of basic courses in political science that meet general education requirements, provide electives in the social sciences, and support majors in leadership and public service. Courses in political science frequently focus on leadership issues. Students interested in a closely related major should examine the Leadership and Public Service (PSL) major. PSL courses may be applied toward the POL minor.

Minor

*Possible Electives:

Course Descriptions
153 U.S. Government 3 hours F
This course is an introductory survey of principles, organization, processes and functions of government and politics in the United States.
General Education: Civic Values & Engagement

170 American Government and Politics 3 hours TBA
This course introduces American government and politics. POL 170 is open only to high school students in an approved DWU dual-credit program. Refer to "Academic Programs" or contact the office of academic affairs for further information.
Comparable to: POL 153

253 State and Local Government 3 hours TBA
Students will analyze the legal status, powers, functions, intergovernmental relations and political problems of state and local government, and federalism. The course places special emphasis on the criminal justice system and state legislature.

275 Field Experience 1-3 hours TBA

299 Selected Topics – Basic 1-3 hours TBA

312 Methods of Social Research 3 hours F
(Refer to SOC 312)

351 American Foreign Policy 3 hours F10
This course examines the history of U.S. foreign affairs since World War I, and the institutions, political forces and emerging issues shaping current foreign policy. Particular topics will be emphasized, including the foreign policy record of recent presidents, Chinese-American relations and the international goals of the United States in the wake of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11.
General Education: Critical & Collaborative Thinking – Historical Thinking & Analysis

352 Political Thought 3 hours S10
This course is a survey of the leading western philosophers from Plato to present authorities concerning their political ideas and the impact of these ideas.

353 Congress and the Presidency 3 hours F10
Students will examine the foundations, forces, processes, relationships and issues shaping the legislative and executive branches of the national government. The course combines an overview of Congress and the presidency with a deeper analysis of the culture and operations of these institutions.

354 World Politics 3 hours TBA
Students will examine the political systems and foreign policies of various nations, as well as the political philosophies affecting their political systems.

450 Internships 1-16 hours F,S

460 Independent Study 3 hours F,S

499 Selected Topics – Advanced 3 hours TBA