University of Missouri - Kansas City : Political Science (POL-SCI)

American government and politics, with special reference to the U.S. Constitution. This course meets the state requirement for study of the U.S. and Missouri Constitutions. Prerequisite: None. Offered: Every semester.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 220 Introduction To Comparative Politics

An analysis of the way political institutions, processes and policies vary from country to country. Emphasis on politics in Europe, with attention to other nations when making comparisons. Prerequisite: None.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 300 Interdisciplinary Studies:Cluster Course

Provides an overview of the interrelationships of the humanities and social sciences. Offered in conjunction with other departments.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 300 CS Cluster Course: History Of Russian Culture

3 hrs

POL-SCI 301 Western Political Philosophy

An examination of the major theories of politics from Plato to today.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 302 Political Research And Analysis

The Internet and CD-Rom have opened up many sources of political information, and the computer facilitates the running of political simulations. The computer also makes it possible for many to use and to understand basic statistical techniques for the first time. In this course we will explore these and other techniques of political research and analysis. Prerequisites: None.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 303 Political Behavior

This course will survey research on conventional and unconventional forms of mass political behavior. Topics to be discussed include campaign participation, voting behavior, public opinion, the media, and participation in protests and revolutions. This course will also cover the methodological approaches to the study of political behavior.Offered: Spring

3 hrs

POL-SCI 304 Politics Of The Developing Nations

An analysis of the evolving political systems of the new nations in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Social, cultural and economic influences on political processes and policies are explored.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 305 Survey Research And Analysis

Students will learn the process of research design and how one designs and implements surveys. The students will also learn how one analyzes survey data. Prerequisite: None Offered: Annually

3 hrs

POL-SCI 306 International Relations

An analysis of relations among nations, with emphasis on structures of international power, causes of war, and approaches to peace.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 307 The United Nations: Politics And Economics

This interdisciplinary course covers many facets of the United Nations, acquainting students with its structure, its operations and its involvement in international events, past and present. It merges politics, economics issues and the history of the UN in an effort to understand more fully the UN's role in international diplomacy. Students in this course will have an opportunity to participate in various Model UN conferences during the year. Offered: Fall Semester

3 hrs

POL-SCI 308 Politics, Parties And Pressure Groups

This course is an introduction to parties and interest groups, and their important role in the political process. We will examine the formation, organization, activities, and impact of political parties and interest groups in the US and in comparative perspective.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 309 Public Opinion And Voting Behavior

A study of the formation, distribution and expression of public opinion and partisanship in the American political system.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 310 African Americans and the American Political Process

This course will analyze political culture, socialization, and mobilization with a focus on trends in the interaction between African Americans and institutions, processes, policies, and other actors that comprise the American system of politics and governance.Offered: Every other semester

3 hrs

POL-SCI 311 Comparative Politics: Techniques Of Social Control

An analysis of techniques used by regimes to perpetuate themselves in office and the effects of these techniques upon constitutional continuity, ideology, and social and economic change.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 312 Mass Media And American Politics

An examination of the role of mass media in American electoral and policy processes.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 313 Politics In The American States

A study of the structures, functions, and politics of the institutions of American state governments and an assessment of their role in the federal system. This course is particularly interested in the extent to which political economy and political culture, broadly defined, influence public policy within the states. Prerequisite: None.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 314 Politics of Kansas City Metro

This course will provide an understanding of politics in urban America through a study of metropolitan Kansas City. It will discuss the relationships between local governments, their decision making process, city-county consolidation, structure of regional council of governments, forming political alliances and current political issues affecting the metropolitan area. The course will discuss the politics of issues like transportation, sports facilities, environment and economic competitiveness.Offered: Winter

3 hrs

POL-SCI 316 Terrorism And Political Violence

This course explores terrorism and armed struggle from theoretical and historical perspectives, and analyzes a number of violent movements with nationalist, ideological, and religious motiviations. Offered: As Needed

3 hrs

POL-SCI 317 Revolutionary Origins Of The Modern State

An examination of the radical changes in economics, the social order, institutions and ideologies since the French Revolution which have led to the rise of totalitarianism and unstable democratic political systems in the advanced industrial nations.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 318 Political Psychology

The field of political psychology is an interdisciplinary field that draws on both psychology and political science to address topics in the political world. This course will focus on a variety of topics including inter-group conflict, stereotyping and prejudice, political socialization, attitude formation and change, political communication, decision heuristics and biases , public opinion, and the future of political psychology.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 319 Campaigns And Elections

This course will examine the role of campaigns in determining the outcome of both congressional and presidential elections and the way that electoral rules structure both campaign strategies and electoral outcomes.This course focuses on topics such as the role of the media, campaign advertising, campaign financing, public opinion, registration requirements, and the role of interest groups.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 326 Racial & Ethnic Politics

This course provides an analysis of the political behavior and roles of racial and ethnic groups in the American political system. Theoretical, empirical, and practical issues of race, racism, and race relations are examined (in the political context). Public policy, electoral behavior, and political institutions are also investigated with regards to the empowerment and political incorporation of communities of color

3 hrs

POL-SCI 327 Nationalism And Ethnic Conflict

Nationalism and ethnicity serve as a basis for group identification, political mobilization, terrorism, war, and genocide. This course provides students with theoretical frameworks for analyzing nationalism and ethnic strife, and explores case studies to test our assumptions and theories about nationalist violence. Offered: As needed

3 hrs

POL-SCI 328 State And Local Government

In this course, we will cover the major issues, institutions, and political actors involved with state and local goverment. The class will expose you to how American federalism impacts states, metropolitan regions, and cities. The politics of governance, agenda setting, and public budgeting are also examined. The main objective is to develop a good understanding of the literature (theoretically, empirically and practically) on state and local politics.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 332 American National Security

Since the Second World War, the United States' military instrument has grown increasingly isolated from the other instruments of national power. The needs of the post-cold war era, in contrasts, are for the more sophisticated orchestration of all instruments of national power at all levels of government. Students will be presented with the relevant concepts of international relations theory, national security strategy, legislation, and the executive branch organizations that wield the instruments of national power. The course pays particular attention to the National Security Council, established by 1947 legislation to integrate the domestic, foreign, and military policies of the United States as they relate to national security. Offered: On demand.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 336 American Foreign Policy

Understanding the contemporary debate over American foreign policy in terms of the premises and perspectives of several competing schools of thought.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 338 Religion And Politics

This course explores the rise of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish fundamentalisms in the modern world and assesses their impact on states, societies, and cultures around the globe. It explores how faith can be used to organize and legitimate social activism, liberation movements, and political terrorism. Offered: As needed

3 hrs

POL-SCI 339 Cyberspace, Technology, and Politics

In this course we will read significant thinkers who are pondering major changes occurring in politics and society because of technology and the internet. Some argue that the world is getting "flat" and think that the change will be beneficial, while others believe we need to make economic units smaller and more local. We will also explore the internet, blogs and web 2.0 and explore their effect on our lives and on politics.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 341 The Theory Of Democracy

Analysis of the writings of philosophers like Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx and Nietzsche who developed and analyzed the ideas associated with modern democracies.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 342 American Political Thought

A study of American political ideas, with emphasis on current problems and conflicts, and intellectual responses to social change.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 343 The Politics Of Social Security

A study of the American Social Security system, including its history, principles, and prospects for the future.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 344 Jurisprudence

An examination of theories of law from the viewpoint of political science.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 345 The Politics Of Sex And Gender

Just as there is a politics of class and race, so is there a politics of sex and gender. Though gender roles and sexual practices seem as though they are natural, post-modern theorists argue that they are social constructions that change over time, privilege some groups, and disadvantage others. In this course we will examine the debate between opposing viewpoints and discuss how and where political decisions are made in this area. Prerequisite: None.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 346 Introduction to the Trial Process

This course examines the trial process. We examine both about the structure of the jucicial system and the different elelments of a trial. Students will also participate in a mock trial using the American Mock Trial Associations annual problem.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 348 Constitutional Law: The Federal System

A study of the president, congress and state governments from the perspective of the Constitution, emphasizing powers and limitations on the exercise of authority.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 349 Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties

A study of civil liberties in American society, emphasizing factors and forces that restrict or enlarge their scope, as understood through constitutional interpretation.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 353 Chinese Politics

China's political system from earliest origins to the present. Close attention is given to the manner in which current political and economic institutions function. Comparisons are made with other communist and Asian political systems.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 354 Politics In Russia

A study of domestic and international politics in Russia, emphasizing the post-Soviet period.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 355 Politics In Eastern And Central Europe

An analysis of the internal politics and foreign policies of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland, and selected other countries in East-Central Europe, emphasizing the transition to post-Communist rule and new and enduring patterns of political culture.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 357 European Politics

An examination of government and politics in the established democracies of Western Europe, and of political developments in the former Communist states of Central and Eastern Europe. Offered: Winter .

3 hrs

POL-SCI 359 Latin American Politics

In this course we will focus on the major periods in Latin American political history since the Great Depression. This includes the pot-War period of optimism in which democratic governments promoted rapid economic development, the period of pessimism and authoritarianism from the 1960s to the 1980s, and a new democratic renewal beginning in the 1990s. We will examine the consolidating democracies that emerged in the 1990s in depth.We will also examine case studies of recently failed democracy, Venezuela, and ask why this democracy failed.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 360 Labor, Politics and Society

This course explores many aspects of unions and the labor movement in society and the vital role organized labor plays as a pillar of democratic society. Unions impact the economy, growth, and the distribution of wealth, and the impact racial and gender equality, social security health and job safety, energy and the environment, and even foreign relations. As a social movement, labor has had a major impact on American history. This course covers these topics from a labor perspective. It examines current obstacles for union organizing, recent union campaigns, labor's political role, and the relationship between labor and the media, This course is part of the Certificate Program in Labor Studies and is offered on the University of Missouri Interactive Video Network at UMKC, UMSL, and UMC.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 361 Global Issues in a Changing World

Threats to national and international securing were once dominated by military force and interstate warfare. Threats are now seen in a much broader context. Non-state, transnational actors now pose a threat to transnational business, states, and even civilizations. Issues like global climate change and HIV/AIDS are seen as threats to national survival well beyond any single nation's ability to contain. For some, the deep phenomenon of globalization is seen as a threat to national sovereignty and, indeed, a threat to the international system of states. In this course, challenges and opportunities replace threat as the organizing principle, and the role of international institutions takes center stage. Offered: Annually.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 362 Latin America and International Relations

This course we will survey the relations between Latin American states and between Latin America and the world. Taking the Latin American states as the key actors, we examine the history of US-Latin American relations, including current issues such as drug trafficking, immigration and terrorism. We will also study the region as a player on the international stage, examining Latin America's changing role in the world arena related to trade, development, and the environment. Finally we examine the emergence of new leadership in Latin America. Offered: Every other semester.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 369 Politics Of The Middle East

This course explores the formation of the modern Middle East; the role of Islam in shaping its political cultures; the post-colonial transformations that shaped its current political systems; the economic and democratic reforms that challenge existing regimes; and the pivotal states and conflicts that stir regional politics. Offered: As needed

3 hrs

POL-SCI 370 Labor Law

In this course, participants will examine the role of government in the regulation of labor-management relations in the United States. While the focus of the course will be on federal laws regulating private sector labor relations, parallel issues addressed in the Railway Labor Act and state public sector labor relations law will also be covered. Specific topics include the legal framework for the organization of workers, definition of prohibited or unfair labor practices of employers and unions, legal regulation of the collective bargaining process, regulation of the use of economic weapons in labor disputes, enforcement of collective bargaining agreements and the regulation of internal trade union activities. Prerequisites: None.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 380 Political Science And Politics

Offered as a special course in the individual faculty member's area of research specialization. The course may be repeated for credit when the topic varies. The topic and instructor will be announced in advance. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor or advanced standing.

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 380 A Political Science And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 380 B Political Science And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 380 C Political Science And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 380 D Political Science And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 380 Political Science And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 380 X Political Science And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 381 Mock Trial

A study of the trial process in the U.S. judicial system focusing on the structure and rules of trials, including the role of attorneys. Combination of student performance with in-class lecture and discussion.Restrictions: Consent of instructor

1 hr

POL-SCI 403 Political Ideology

A critical examination of contemporary political ideologies including democratic and authoritarian theories.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 405 American Constitutional Thought

An analysis of the development of American constitutional doctrine, with emphasis on the historical and intellectual context within which the Supreme Court changes its attitudes toward economic and political issues.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 406 Presidential Politics

This course will examine the American presidency as an institution, and will analyze its role in the American political system. It will also consider the administrations of the various presidents.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 407 Congressional Politics

A study of legislative institutions, procedures and behavior (with emphasis on the U.S. Congress) in the context of theories of political representation.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 408 Judicial Politics

An examination of the judiciary in the American political process, emphasizing the role of judges, lawyers and the Supreme Court.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 409 Bureaucratic Politics

A study of political processes that create and operate within bureaucracies in the American pluralist system. Close attention is given to the tension between representation and rationality when making decisions.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 418 International Security

The course examines competing theories and concepts of national and international security, selected security issues, and the responses of several countries to different security environments.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 424 Urban Politics and Community Power Structures

This course surveys and analyzes the literature covering urban politics. Students will gain both a theoretical understanding of and empirical grounding in the politics of urban America. An array of important political, social and economic problems that impact urban politics will be examined.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 425 Comparative Politics

Aspects of politics in various countries as viewed through the language and thought processes of contemporary approaches to political science.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 427 Presidential Power: foundations, Growth, Issues

An intense examination of the growth of presidential power, from its constitutional foundations; the necessity of a strong presidency, but the potential for abuse. Appropriate for the general student, as well as for majors in political science.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 428 Political Culture And Political Behavior

This course will examine the concept of political culture and its use in the empirical analyses of political behavior in advanced political systems. Emphasis will be placed on the U.S system with comparisons drawn from Western Europe. The student will be expected to complete an empirically documented research paper.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 429 Courts And Public Policy

An analysis of how courts influence policy in selected political arenas.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 432 American Security Policy

An examination of national security policy as an organizational and intellectual response to changes in technology and international conflict.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 435 Politics Of The Environment

A survey of the political aspects of environmental issues. The course poses the problems of environmental damage and examines actual and proposed policies aimed at addressing them. Also offered through the PACE program. Prerequisite: None.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 438 Urban Politics

The study of local politics and government in metropolitan areas with special attention to political party and interest group activity; community leadership, influences and "power"; and citizen participation and political behavior.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 440 Contemporary Political Thought

Political philosophy from Nietzsche to today.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 441 Political Freedom

Selected writings by political thinkers dealing with the establishment of freedom and justice in the state. Examines the challenges to political freedom under various regimes.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 442 American Political Thought

This course will focus on intellectual reations to the major periods in American history (the movement for independence, the writing of the Constitution, the Jacksonian period, the Civil War debate, the growth of big business, the rise of the positive state and contemporary America). Contemporary theorists will be included along with Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Hamilton, Marshall, etc.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 450 WI Ethics And Government

An examination of ethical issues related to government with the primary focus on national and local governmental bodies in the United States. Ethics in the executive, legislative and judicial branches are examined. Ethical standards for elected officials and appointed public servants are reviewed. Attempts to "legislate morality" are considered. The course includes a historical review of ethics and government and an analysis of the legal implication of legislation regarding ethics in the executive branch. Prerequisite: Successful completion of the WEPT.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 451 International Politics In Europe

An examination of developments in international politics in Europe since the end of the Cold War. Issues are discussed in the context of relevant theories of international relations. Offered: every two years Restrictions: May not be taken by those who took "Europe After the Cold War"

3 hrs

POL-SCI 452 Concepts in International Relations

This course exposes advanced undergraduate students to major conceptual and theoretical approaches to international relations. Restrictions: Prior course in international relations, politics, economics or history, or permission of instructor.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 480 Government And Politics

This variable credit course will explore different contemporary issues and problems related to government and politics. Credit may apply to the major but will not satisfy any of the four subfields distribution requirements.

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 480 F Government And Politics

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 490 Senior Seminar

A review, analysis and integration of the literatures of the several sub-fields of the discipline. For senior political science majors only. Prerequisite: Senior standing. Offered: Each semester.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 491 Internship

With the written consent of the department chairman, students may participate in structured internship programs approved by the department for a maximum of six hours.

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 492 WI Senior Seminar (Capstone)

This intensive survey of political science provides graduating seniors an opportunity for integration and review of their study of political values, behavior, and institutions. Satisfies both writing intensive and capstone requirements. Prerequisites: Senior standing in political science and completion of the WEPT. Offered: Winter.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 493 Study Abroad

This course is designed to allow students to get credit for overseas study in approved programs. These include research intensive programs like InterFuture, programs which are approved by the International Studies Center at UMKC, internships and other programs run by angelicas of the U.S. government, and programs run by accredited Colleges and Universities. Students will need the prior approval of the Chair or Undergraduate Advisor of the Political Science Department, and will be required to work with a faculty member in the Department. Offered: On demand.

1-6 hrs

POL-SCI 497 Political Science Tutorial

Senior political science majors may apply to do independent study under a selected professor. Must have written consent of the professor prior to registration. Only one tutorial will count toward the major.

3 hrs

POL-SCI 498 Honors Tutorial

Senior political science majors with a grade point average of 3.4 or above in political science may apply to do independent study under a selected professor. Must have written consent of professor prior to registration. Only one tutorial will count toward the major.

1-3 hrs

POL-SCI H220 Introduction To Comparative Politics

3 hrs

POL-SCI H318 Political Psychology

3 hrs