POLSC 151 - Introduction to American Government
Credit Hours: 3
Billable Contact Hours: 3
Prerequisites: RDG 090 and ENGL 090 or qualifying scores on accepted placement tests
C6 General Education Social Systems Satisfier Y
MTA Social Sciences Satisfier Y
Session Cycle: FWSU
Students will examine the fundamental components of American government from the perspective of political science. This includes understanding the historical and political culture that shaped the structure of the government, its constitution, and the political norms and values that are protected in the constitution, its amendments, and laws. Students will also learn about different political actors and groups, such as interest groups, political parties, media, etc. that participate in the political process. Students will also explore the structures of government and power, such as the Congress, the presidency, the courts, the system of federalism, and the electoral process.
Notes: Humanities/Social Sciences Division
Theory Hours: 45
Learning Outcomes:
1. Explain how the history of the United States and its founding shaped the political attitudes and governmental structures of the American government. This includes the U.S. Constitution, the system of federalism, key constitutional amendments and court cases, the Bill of Rights and different civil liberties and civil rights movements.
Applies to General Education Social Systems Competency Objectives B and C.
2. Students will be able to outline the different political actors that compete in the process of governing, such as interest groups, advocacy groups media, political parties, politicians, and the state.
Applies to General Education Social Systems Competency Objectives A, B, C, and D.
3. Students will be able to describe composition of the American government system, including the presidency, the Congress, the Courts, the electoral system, and the federal division of powers.
Applies to General Education Social Systems Competency Objectives A, B, C, and D.
4. Throughout the course, students will apply theories of power, legitimacy, and political socialization in their analysis of American politics.
Applies to General Education Social Systems Competency Objectives A, B, C, and D.
Honors Learning Outcomes:
1. Critically evaluate the challenges of citizenship in the context of increasing globalization in the areas of environmental policy and human rights.
Applies to Citizenship - Students will demonstrate engagement with the civic life of the local or global community and promote quality of life in their communities, through political or non-political processes.
A. Identify the process and institutions that influence participatory citizenship in the United States or global society.
B. Describe the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
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