UG Course Descriptions

Theoretical models and basic concepts in international relations; e.g., power, diplomacy, negotiation, sovereignty, balance of power, national interest, the decision-making process in the formulation of foreign policy.

Examines the role of the courts as actors in the American political system. Course elements will critically engage with the history and politics of the judicial system, the role of laws in politics and society, and the structure and functioning of judicial institutions to include the politics of judicial selection, nomination, and election. Both federal and state court systems will be considered.

Examines the origins, nature, and impact of violence in American society from a variety of disciplinary perspectives.

Examines the role of films and film making in political discourse, and uses representations of political issues on film as an opportunity to engage with contemporary issues. The construction of reality, cultural conflict, gender roles, economic change, race, love, sexuality, crime, and other issues receive attention as key themes of the modern age.

The role of legislatures in the political system, including the US Congress and state/local legislative bodies. Particular attention is paid to the legislative process, its structural elements, and the politics of legislating. Simulations may be used to reinforce key content.

A guided exam preparation course for students intending to sit for the Law School Admission Test. Students will receive instruction on test format and strategies, and complete practice exercises and exams under faculty supervision.

This course provides a basic analytical toolkit for students in social science and humanities disciplines, utilizing basic statistical methods and inferential reasoning to develop sound conclusions and identify areas for future research. Students will use technology and logic to develop foundational skills in analysis of social phenomena and in the evaluation of historical events.

Explores the role that the Roman Catholic Church played in influencing governmental policy in relation to urban affairs at the local, state and federal levels, and how these events, in turn, caused the church itself to change.

An examination of the political and social development of the City of Philadelphia with particular emphasis placed on recent political leaders beginning with the reform mayors, Clark and Dilworth, continuing through Tate, Rizzo, Green, Goode, Rendell and Street.

Examines the evolution of the Irish-American community in the United States in light of the nation’s political development with an emphasis upon the period from the Civil War forward. Special attention will be paid to the role of the urban political machine, portrayals of Irish ethnicity and their political effects throughout U.S. history, and the role of Irish-Americans in lobbying for change in Northern Ireland.