Govt & Foreign Affairs (GFA)

GFA 103 T1:FD:DV:American Government 3 sem. hrs.

Politics constitutes the often-conflictual processes (i.e., roll call votes in Congress, presidential elections, the debate over immigration reform) through which societies translate their values into public policy outcomes. This introductory survey course on American politics provides students with information about important political values, rules, behaviors, and institutions in the United States, and demonstrates how important political phenomena relate to one another. This emphasis on the relationship between phenomena is critical because it is not enough to merely know things. To be a truly critical and intelligent observer of politics, one must understand what leads to the occurrence of events and what affects the behavior of political actors.

GFA 104 World Culture & Geography 3 sem. hrs.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse cultures and geographies of the world. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will examine the relationship between human societies and their physical environments, with a focus on cultural practices, traditions, languages, and belief systems across various regions. Key topics include the impact of geography on societal development, globalization, migration, and the effects of climate change on cultural dynamics. Students will engage with case studies from different continents, learn to analyze cultural landscapes, and develop a deeper understanding of how geography shapes global and regional identities. By the end of the course, students will have gained a comprehensive appreciation for cultural diversity and the global challenges and opportunities that arise from the interaction between people and their environments.

GFA 201 H1:DV:FD: World Politics 3 sem. hrs.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of world politics, examining the political, economic, and social forces that shape global relations. Students will explore key concepts such as power, sovereignty, international law, human rights, and diplomacy, while also analyzing the roles of nation-states, international organizations, and non-state actors in the global system. Through an examination of major global issues- such as conflict, security, globalization, trade, development, and environmental challenges- students will gain insight into the complex dynamics that influence world affairs. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the historical context of international relations and the contemporary challenges of global governance in a multipolar world.

GFA 205 FD: State and Local Government 3 sem. hrs.

While most media attention focuses on the actions of the actors at the federal level, this is not the type of government that influences our lives the most. State and local governments create, pass, and implement most public policies that we must abide by. This course examines the conditions of government in state and local communities in the United States, along with the manner in which these governments address the needs and problems which residents cope with daily. This course will help us discover what government elements are working, and what is not. Perhaps, more importantly, by the end of the semester, we should be able to determine the basics of what holds some communities back and allows others to flourish.

GFA 207 TH1:SL:DV: Elections in the US 3 sem. hrs.

This course will introduce students to U.S. campaigns and elections. Our focus will on the the theoretical and empirical questions that encompass much of the state-of-the-art work on voting, campaign effects, partisan coalitions, electoral rules, campaign finance, public opinion, and the media. We will primarily talk about federal elections (presidential and congressional).

GFA 213 H2b:DV:FD:Comparative Politics 3 sem. hrs.

This course offers an in-depth analysis of the political systems, institutions, and processes across different countries and regions. Students will explore the methods and theories used in the comparative study of politics, focusing on how political power is structured and exercised in diverse contexts. The course will cover a range of topics, including democratic and authoritarian regimes, political parties, electoral systems, state-building, and public policy. By examining case studies from various regions, students will gain insights into similarities and differences in political development, governance, and challenges faced by countries around the world. The goal is develop a better understanding of how political systems operate and how they influence societal outcomes.

GFA 214 Introduction to Research 3 sem. hrs.

This course familiarizes students with the fundamental concepts of research that help to form the foundation of the disciplines of the social sciences. The main goal of the course is to explore the methods, concepts, and approaches that social scientists use to understand what we know and what we do not. The methods and concepts covered in the course are applicable to all the sciences in general, and to the social sciences in particular, though the examples used in the course are drawn from political science. The primary focus of this class is on research design, which are the methodical steps that are necessary to build and execute a plan to test an idea or hypothesis in political science.

GFA 221 Special Topics 3 sem. hrs.

A special topics course is a flexible course that explores a specific subject in depth. Courses are designed to cover emerging trends, interdisciplinary themes, or niche areas of study that may not be part of the standard curriculum. Courses vary by semester and instructor, allowing for coverage of unique and timely content.

GFA 245 TH1:DV:TheLawandtheLegalSystem 3 sem. hrs.

This course serves as an introduction to the law, the politics of law, and the American legal system. Topics covered in this class include the role that the bar and the judiciary play in the U.S. government, the structure of the courts at the local, state, and federal levels, the legal education and law schools, the legal community, civil litigation, criminal litigation, negotiated justice, juvenile justice, alternative justice, and the policymaking role of the state and federal appellate courts. This course is designed as an introductory survey course on American law.

GFA 303 H2b:American Political Thought 3 sem. hrs.

This course begins with a survey of political thought concerning the role of the state and/or government and the individual's role in that state from Plato to Hobbes. Significant attention is then given to the formation of the American view of authority and the role of the individual.Emphasis is placed on Locke's Second Treatise of Government as well as American writings such as Common Sense, the Federalist Papers, the Articles of Confederation, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, as well as other relevant documents.

GFA 321 Special Topics 3 sem. hrs.

GFA 323 H1:TH1:DV:Public Policy 3 sem. hrs.

Over the course of just the last ten years, Americans have witnessed the congressional passage of some of the most sweeping policy initiatives in the history of the United States. From expanding Medicare coverage to provide prescription drug benefits to bailing out the automotive industry to the historic passage of healthcare reform, governmental policies have been at the forefront of the thoughts of a majority of Americans during this time period. In this course, we will discuss and analyze many of the most pressing public policy problems in the U.S. The outline of this course is simple. First, we will explore the nature of public policy and the policy analysis process. Second, we will investigate how public policies are made. Finally, we will delve into the study of substantive policy issues.

GFA 331 PolDevelopingWld(LatAm,As,Afr) 3 sem. hrs.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the political systems, challenges, and dynamics of countries in the developing world, with a focus on Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Students will analyze the historical legacies of colonialism, independence movements, and the role of globalization in shaping contemporary political and economic development in these regions. The course covers key themes such as state-building, democratization, authoritarianism, economic development, social movements, and the impact of international organizations and foreign aid. Through case studies, students will critically examine the diverse political experiences and developmental trajectories of countries in the Global South and engage with debates on how to address issues like poverty, inequality, corruption, and conflict.

GFA 332 PolDevelopedWld(EuropeNorthAm) 3 sem. hrs.

This course examines the political systems, institutions, and processes of developed nations, with a focus on Europe and North America. Students will explore key political theories and practices that shape governance in advanced industrial democracies, including the role of political parties, electoral systems, civil society, and the media. The course covers topics such as the development and challenges of liberal democracy, welfare states, economic policy, populism, and the influence of supranational organizations like the European Union. By comparing the political systems of Europe and North America, students will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to political stability, innovation, and challenges in the developed world. Special attention will be given to contemporary political issues, including globalization, immigration, and the rise of new political movements.

GFA 355 H1:TH1:American Foreign Policy 3 sem. hrs.

This course offers an in-depth analysis of the formulation and implementation of American foreign policy, exploring the historical, political, and ideological factors that shape the United States' interactions with the global community. Students will examine the major theories and concepts that guide U.S. foreign policy, including realism, liberalism, and constructivism, while analyzing the role of key actors such as the president, Congress, the State Department, and intelligence agencies. The course covers key topics such as diplomacy, military intervention, trade policy, human rights, and the influence of domestic politics on foreign policy decision-making. Case studies of pivotal moments in U.S. foreign relations, including the Cold War, post-911 interventions, and contemporary challenges like cyber-security and China-U.S. relations, will provide students with a critical understanding of America's role on the global stage.

GFA 375 H3:Politics and Film 3 sem. hrs.

This course explores the intersection of politics and film, analyzing how cinema reflects, influences, and critiques political ideas, movements, and institutions. Through the study of a wide range of films- documentaries, political dramas, historical epics, and satires- students will examine how filmmakers portray issues such as power, ideology, justice, revolution, war, and social movements. The course will consider how films shape public perceptions of political events and figures, how they serve as tools of propaganda or resistance, and how they reflect the political and cultural context in which they are produced. Students will also explore the role of film as a medium for political communication and its capacity to generate dialogue about complex political issues.

GFA 384 US Congress & the Presidency 3 sem. hrs.

This course provides an in-depth study of the two central institutions of American government: the U.S. Congress and the Presidency. Students will examine the structure, powers, and functions of each institution, as well as the dynamic relationship between the legislative and executive branches. Key topics include the constitutional foundations of Congress and the Presidency, the legislative process, executive powers, checks and balances, electoral politics, and the role of political parties. The course will also analyze the factors that influence policymaking, such as public opinion, interest groups, and media, as well as the evolving nature of executive-legislative relations in times of crisis and divided government. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of how these two branches work together- and sometimes in opposition- to shape U.S. governance.

GFA 391 Conflict, War, & Genocide 3 sem. hrs.

This course offers a contemporary analysis of the causes, dynamics and consequences of conflict, war, and genocide in global history. Students will explore the political, economic, social, and ideological factors that lead to armed conflict and mass violence, with particular emphasis on the role of state and non-state actors. The course examines key concepts such as ethnic conflict, nationalism, civil war, international intervention, and the stages of genocide, while also addressing the impact of war on civilians, including displacement and human rights violations. Case studies of major conflicts and genocides from the 20th and 21st centuries, including the Holocaust, Rwandan Genocide, and Syrian Civil War, will provide students with insight into the conditions that lead to extreme violence and the international responses to these crises. Students will also explore strategies for conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and justice

GFA 392 Terrorism at Home & Abroad 3 sem. hrs.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of terrorism, focusing on both domestic and international contexts. Students will examine the historical roots, political ideologies, motivations, and organizational structures of terrorist groups. The course will cover key events, including significant terrorist attacks, and analyze government responses, counterterrorism strategies, and the legal and ethical issues involved. Topics include the evolution of terrorism, the role of state and non-state actors, and the impact of terrorism on global security and human rights. Students will compare domestic terrorism within the United States and other countries, understanding how social, political, and economic factors contribute to the rise of extremist movements. Case studies will be used to discuss topics such as religious extremism, nationalist movements, cyberterrorism, and lone-wolf attacks. By the end of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of terrorism and the multifaceted approaches used to prevent, respond to, and combat terrorism at home and abroad.

GFA 401 H3:DV:Povty & Prspty in Dev Wd 3 sem. hrs.

This course examines the process of development - defined as social, economic, and political modernization - in the developing world. It provides an introduction to some of the problems of developing states. Reasons for and obstacles to development are discussed as are policies used to address these problems. This course can serve as a capstone course for GFA majors. Next offered Spring 2021, Spring 2023.

GFA 403 TH1:H2b:Constitutional Law 3 sem. hrs.

Constitutional law is defined as the body of laws defining the roles, powers, and structure of governmental entities within the U.S. In the U.S. federal system, those entities include the executive, the legislature, and the courts. This course serves as an introduction to this body of law as it pertains the first seven articles of the U.S. Constitution, and interpreted by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS). The role of the SCOTUS in this process has evolved over time in that they have become the arbiter of political power and application of that power within the U.S. system. The many court cases covered this semester will reveal how the power of our government has grown, and how the SCOTUS has shaped that growth. The cases we examine will touch on many aspects of your daily life and have assisted in determining the social culture in which we live. Please note that this is the most difficult course that I teach due largely to the significant amount of material to be covered, the substantial coursework that is required, and the numerous unfamiliar terms that we will be using. A significant amount of reading, writing, and critical thinking is necessary to be successful in this course.

GFA 405 TH1:H3:DV:CivilRight&Libert 3 sem. hrs.

This course will focus on the U.S. Constitution and Supreme Court, and the role both have played in defining and protecting personal civil rights and liberties. With the attacks of 9/11 and the emergence of the War on Terror, there has been increased interest in the role civil rights and liberties play in a safe and vibrant American society. New boundaries are being drawn and long-settled understandings of the protections guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution are being challenged on the face of this new threat to our democracy. In the civil liberties section of the course, we will focus primarily on the First, Second, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Amendments as they are applied through the Fourteenth Amendment to discover how the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) defines, establishes, and protects our civil liberties. In the civil rights section of the course, we will mostly focus on racial and sexual discrimination, legal remedies, such as affirmative action, voting, and representation to examine how the SCOTUS describes, institutes, and protects our civil rights. The main avenue that we will use to explore American civil rights and liberties will be the SCOTUS because of the Court's main role as the final interpreter of the Constitution.

GFA 409 H3:DV Econ&Monetary Policy 3 sem. hrs.

This course provides a comprehensive study of economic and monetary policies, examining the tools and strategies used by governments and central banks to influence national and global economics. Students will explore the foundations of economic theory, focusing on macroeconomic principles such as inflation, unemployment, GDP growth, and the role of fiscal and monetary policies in managing economic stability. The course covers key topics, including the function and structure of central banks, the mechanisms of monetary policy (such as interest rates and money supply control), and the impact of fiscal policy (taxation and government spending) on economic performance. Students will also analyze the interaction between economic policy, financial markets, and global economic trends, with case studies exploring past and present economic crises, such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic's economic effects. By the end of the course, students will gain an understanding of how economic and monetary policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated, and how they affect every day economic activities, financial markets, and international trade.

GFA 411 TH1: Public Leadership 3 sem. hrs.

This course explores the principles, challenges, and practices of public leadership in the service of government. Students will examine leadership theories, ethical decision-making, crisis management, and strategies for leading diverse groups in public service. Through case studies, discussions, and practical exercises, students will develop skills in communication, strategic planning, and policy advocacy. The course emphasizes the role of public leaders in shaping policy, driving social change, and fostering civic engagement in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

GFA 415 International Law&Organiza 3 sem. hrs.

This course offers an introduction to the principles and institutions of international law and the role of global organizations in maintaining peace, security, and cooperation between states. Students will examine the foundations of international law, including treaties, customary law, and legal frameworks that govern the behavior of states and other international actors. Special attention will be given to the United Nations, the International Criminal Court, the World Trade Organization, and regional organizations such as the European Union and the African Union. The course covers topics such as the use of force, human rights law, environmental law, diplomatic relations, trade regulations, and conflict resolution. Through case studies, students will explore how international legal norms are applied in practice, how international organizations function, and the challenges they face in enforcing international law in a globalized world. By the end of the course, students will understand the complex relationship between international law and global governance, and how these systems contribute to addressing transnational issues such as war crimes, terrorism, climate change, and trade disputes.

GFA 421 Special Topics 3 sem. hrs.

GFA 425 Readings & Individual Investig 1-6 sem. hrs.

Directed readings, tutorials, directed and independent research, etc. With permission of Division Chair and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Offered every semester.

GFA 426 Readings & Individual Investig 1-6 sem. hrs.

Directed readings, tutorials, directed and independent research, etc. With permission of Division Chair and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Offered every semester.

GFA 430 Internship I 3 sem. hrs.

Supervised work experience in federal, state, and local government. Offered every semester.

GFA 431 Internship II 3 sem. hrs.

Supervised work experience in federal, state, and local government. Offered every semester.