Undergraduate Catalog 2023-2024

Department of Political Science

Dr. Scott Lasley, Chair
Email: Scott.Lasley@wku.edu

Cherry Hall, Office 300
Phone: (270) 745-4558
Email: polisci@wku.edu
Website: http://www.wku.edu/political-science

The Department of Political Science offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in five majors; Political Science, International Affairs, Philosophy, Professional Legal Studies, and Legal Studies. In addition, the Department offers an undergraduate certificate in Paralegal Studies, and minors in Political Science and Philosophy.

Departmental curriculum emphasizes core competencies that prepare students for successful careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, while serving as excellent preparation for graduate and law school.

Honors Program

The Department of Political Science participates in the Dixie and Peter Mahurin Honors College. Department honors courses allow students of exceptional academic abilities to investigate political phenomena and concepts in a more in-depth manner and to discuss contemporary political issues in small group settings. Honors courses encourage the development of critical thinking skills and analytical writing. Students also have an opportunity to assist faculty with research, present papers at regional and national conferences and/or engage in self-designed research projects. Majors in the Mahurin Honors College can complete their honors thesis in consultation with an advisor. For further information on honors courses and opportunities, contact Professor Scott Lasley, Department of Political Science.

Faculty

Professor

Audrey L. Anton PhD, The Ohio State University Main Campus, 2011

Jeffrey L. Budziak PhD (Political Science), The Ohio State University Main Campus, 2011

Craig T. Cobane PhD (Political Science), University of Cincinnati Main Campus, 2003

Jeffrey P. Kash PhD (Political Science), University of Iowa, 2002

Scott J. Lasley PhD (Political Science), University of Iowa, 2000

Timothy S. Rich PhD (Political Science, East Asian Languages), Indiana University-Bloomington, 2012

Michael J. Seidler PhD (Philosophy), Saint Louis University, 1981

Joel F. Turner PhD (Political Science), Florida State University, 2007

Associate Professor

Saundra C. Ardrey PhD (Political Science), The Ohio State University Main Campus, 1983

Soleiman Kiasatpour PhD (Political Science), University of California-Riverside, 1998

Assistant Professor

Landon D. Elkind PhD (Philosophy), University of Iowa, 2018

Kelsey L. Truxal JD (Law), University of Louisville, 2020

Pedagogical Professor

Julia F. Shadoan JD (Law), DePaul University, 1995

Professional Legal Studies (PLS)

PLS 200    Legal Ethics    3 Hours

Study, analysis and application of codes of professional responsibility and standards of conduct governing the practice of law in state and federal courts.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023

PLS 225    Introduction to Law    3 Hours

Introduction to law, its professions and processes.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PLS 250    Legal Research and Writing I    3 Hours

The sources and techniques of performing legal research using primary and secondary authorities in a law library and online and drafting legal documents in appropriate format with correct citations.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022; fall 2023

PLS 280    Contract Law    3 Hours

Academic and practical instruction in the law of contracts, with a focus on contract formation, performance and breach.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PLS 282    Tort Law    3 Hours

Academic and practical instruction in the law of torts, including intentional torts, negligence and strict liability to prepare students for law practice focused on assault/battery, personal injury, professional malpractice and/or property loss claims.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

PLS 283    Property Law    3 Hours

Instruction in basic concepts of property law as well as practical application of the law to title examinations, real estate closing transactions and land disputes.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

PLS 291    Criminal Law and Procedure    3 Hours

Introduces criminal law and procedure, forms and documents, and all stages of criminal litigation preparation by a paralegal using the systems approach. Emphasizes application of Kentucky law.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250 (may be taken concurrently)

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023

PLS 294    Administrative Practice and Procedures    3 Hours

Detail laws pertaining to Medicaid, Medicare and related topics, and Kentucky unemployment law. Uses hands-on approach, including mock federal and state administrative hearings.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PLS 296    Family Law    3 Hours

This course will involve preparation of various contested and uncontested divorce pleadings to include petition for dissolution of marriage; findings of fact, conclusions of law and decree of dissolution; simple and complex separation agreements; settlement agreements; petitions for temporary custody and change in child support. Preparation of other documents to include petition for adoptions and application for AFDC. In addition, the student will receive instruction regarding skills needed in client interviewing, organization of financial records, answering of interrogatories and request for production of documents and ethical guideline to which a paralegal should adhere.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PLS 324    Women and the Law    3 Hours

An examination of treatment of women in, and by, the U.S. legal profession. Survey of landmark cases that have impact specifically on women's legal rights. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023

PLS 350    EVIDENCE    3 Hours

Study and application of rules governing discovery and admission of evidence in state and federal courts and administrative hearings.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

PLS 360    Debtor Creditor Relations    3 Hours

Study and analysis of the types of debtor/creditor relationships, including how the relationships are developed and maintained and what legal remedies exist when the relationships deteriorate.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PLS 375    Comparative Legal Systems    3 Hours

Comparative study and analysis of U.S. legal system and those of select foreign countries. Students will be responsible for fees associated with off campus travel as assigned. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022; fall 2023

PLS 381    Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods and Practices    3 Hours

Examination and application of various methods of alternative dispute resolution utilized in legal disputes.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 393

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2023

PLS 392    Corporate Law    3 Hours

Examination and analysis of available business forms including formation requirements, tax and liability considerations, and operation and management concerns.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PLS 393    Civil Procedure    3 Hours

Examination and application of federal and state rules of procedure governing a civil lawsuit from initial client contact through discovery, trial, and appeal. Coursework will focus on the role and responsibilities of the paralegal in preparing court documents, investigation, client and witness contact, discovery, trial preparation and post-trial proceedings. A mock trial will be concluded.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022; spring 2023

PLS 395    Estate Planning and Administration    3 Hours

Estate planning and probate practice under Kentucky statutes, including initial steps, asset management and distribution, tax issues, wills and trusts, and drafting related documents required for planning and probate.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PLS 400    Special Topics for Paralegals    1-6 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

This course is an examination of historical and contemporary special topics in paralegal studies. Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation for off campus travel as assigned.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PLS 450    Legal Research and Writing II    3 Hours

The sources and techniques of performing online, independent legal research, critical analysis of fact and law, legal argument development and drafting advanced legal documents.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022; spring 2023

PLS 499    Internship in Paralegal Studies    3 Hours

Students must document a minimum number of hours of practical experience in an external legal setting under an attorney's supervision. Note: Permission of program advisor and advanced registration required.

Prerequisite(s): PLS 250 and PLS 393 and PLS 450 (may be taken concurrently)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

Philosophy (PHIL)

PHIL 101    Enduring Questions: Truth and Relativism    3 Hours

The study of central positions and arguments concerning the nature and character of Truth: Is there such a thing as Truth? What is real? If there is Truth and reality, how can we know them? Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PHIL 102    Enduring Questions: The Good and the Beautiful    3 Hours

The study of fundamental questions in moral theory and aesthetics: What is good? What is beauty? On what grounds do we base moral and aesthetic judgments? How are the good and the beautiful related, and how are they different? Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PHIL 103    Enduring Questions: The Committed Life    3 Hours

The philosophical study of individual and collective commitment to ideals and values in a pluralistic society. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022

PHIL 202    Racial Justice    3 Hours

An examination of (1) the major perspective that came together to form the civil rights movement of the 1950's and 1960's; (2) the accomplishments and failures of that movement; and (3) the issues of racial justice that remain today. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code SB

Equivalent(s): RELS 202

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 207    Philosophy and Popular Culture    3 Hours

An examination of the mutliple ways that philosophical inquiry can further the study of popular culture. This will include philosphical accounts of the nature and meaning of popular culture as well as the use of various philosophical approaches to interpret specific elements of popular culture such as film, television, music, and sports.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 208    Philosophy of Public Space; Reason, Action & Violence    3 Hours

An exploration of how public spaces (squares, malls, streets, parks, and sidewalks) shape citizenship by enabling and disabling public discourse and political participation. Students will investigate and evaluate demands for justice and fairness that have been made in public spaces.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 211    Why Are Bad People Bad?    3 Hours

A study of enduring questions about the darker side of human nature- such as whether people are born bad and whether people are responsible for vice and evil- providing a philosophical analysis of a wide range of examples from multiple disciplinary perspectives. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2021; fall 2021; winter 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; summer 2023; fall 2023

PHIL 212    Philosophy and Gender Theory    3 Hours

Introductory study of philosophical works as they related to gender theory, queer theory, and feminism. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 214    Logic, Argument, and Practical Reasoning    3 Hours

Focuses on areas of logic that provide a basis for philosophical reasoning and analysis, including types of arguments, logical properties, fallacies, Venn diagrams, truth tables, and categorical, sentential, and quantified logics.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 215    Symbolic Logic    3 Hours

An introductory course in logic which presents the different uses of language and teaches students (1) to evaluate the logical status of statements and the consistency and validity of arguments using both natural and formal language techniques, and (2) to identify informal fallacies. Typically, a student who earns an "A" or "B" in PHIL 215 may go on to take PHIL 415, with the permission of the instructor of 415. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code F-QR | QR, AH

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023

PHIL 299    Philosophical Writing Workshop    1 Hour (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

A workshop designed to help students develop their writing skills and forms of argumentation in a philosophical context. Note: One philosophy course or concurrent registration in a philosophy course required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 305    Aesthetics    3 Hours

A survey of outstanding philosophies of art and a study of the principles of art criticism.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 315    Philosophy of Religion    3 Hours

A systematic study of such problems as the nature and existence of God, the relation of faith and reason, human nature and destiny, immortality, evil, and the problem of religious language. Note: One course in philosophy or religious studies is required.

Equivalent(s): RELS 315

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 320    Ethics    3 Hours

An introduction to ethical issues using classical and contemporary texts. Among issues that may be treated are justice, rights, responsibilities, punishment, and obligations regarding the environment. Note: One course in philosophy or sophomore status is required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code AH

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 322    Biomedical Ethics    3 Hours

A philosophical analysis of ethical problems in biomedical practice and research, including patients' rights, professional responsibilities, death and dying, health care allocation, and reproductive technologies. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code AH

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 323    Social Ethics    3 Hours

Perspectives and issues involved in the public pursuit of justice in a religiously and philosophically diverse society. One short field trip. Note: One course in religious studies or philosophy or junior status is required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Equivalent(s): RELS 323

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022; spring 2023

PHIL 324    War and Peace    3 Hours

A philosophical examination of classical and contemporary arguments concerning the use of organized violence to settle human disputes. Topics include just war theories, pacifism and nonviolence, deterrence, militarism, and peacemaking. Note: One course in philosophy at the 100 or 200 level; or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 330    Philosophy of Science    3 Hours

Critical examination of the concepts, presuppositions, and methods of the natural and social sciences. Fundamental concepts such as space, time, matter, and causality are examined. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2023

PHIL 331    Analytic Philosophy    3 Hours

A study of Anglo-American/Analytic philosophy in the 20th century focusing on the works of representative figures like Carnap, Frege, Moore, Russell, Quine and Wittgenstein. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

PHIL 332    Philosophy of Mind: Minds and Machines    3 Hours

A study of the nature of mind, cognitive states, and consciousness. Topics may include the nature of the mental system, mind-brain identity, computer consciousness, and visual system's role in decision-making and intentionality. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022

PHIL 333    Marx and Critical Theory    3 Hours

A study of 19th and 20th century critical social thought focusing on Marxism and the Frankfurt School. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 334    Philosophy of Language    3 Hours

Examines major topics in the philosophy of language, including the language-world-thought relationship, linguistic meaning, linguistic structure, and communication. Note: One Philosophy Course or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021

PHIL 341    Plato and Aristotle    3 Hours

The study of primary texts to assess and compare the contributions of Plato and Aristotle and related figures to issues in metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PHIL 342    Skeptics, Stoics, and Epicureans    3 Hours

A selective study to assess and compare the views of Stoics, Skeptics, Epicureans, and others on issues that include reality, knowledge, natural law, well-being, and soul. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

PHIL 343    Medieval Philosophy    3 Hours

A selective study to assess and compare the contributions of medieval thinkers such as Peter Abelard, Roger Bacon, and William of Ockham to issues including language, knowledge and science, reality and God, virtues and conscience, well-being, and political order. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 344    Early Modern Moral Philosophy    3 Hours

A selective study of moral problems and movements in early modern European philosophy between the Reformation and the late eighteenth century. Note:One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

PHIL 345    Descartes and Hume    3 Hours

A comparative treatment of the major works and doctrines of Descartes and Hume and their importance for subsequent philosophical developments. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 346    Kant and Idealism    3 Hours

A focused study of the philosophy of Kant and reaction to that philosophy by such figures as Hegel, Schelling, Fichte, or Kierkegaard. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 347    Leibniz and Locke    3 Hours

A comparative treatment of the major works and doctrines and Leibniz and Locke and their importance for subsequent philosophical developments. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021

PHIL 348    20th Century Philosophy    3 Hours

A study of one or more of the philosophical movements of the 20th century. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 350    Ethical Theory    3 Hours

A study of the major normative systems in the history of ethics, and of selected problems in contemporary metaethics, including moral reasoning, skepticism, rights, and theories of justice. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; spring 2023

PHIL 401    Readings in Philosophy    3 Hours

An intensive study of selected philosophic classics or readings in a selected area of philosophy. May be repeated for different topics. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PHIL 404    Metaphysics and Epistemology    3 Hours

Selective study of topics about reality and knowledge, such as existence, appearance and reality, causality, persons, certainty, theory and evidence, explanation and understanding and justification. Note: Junior status, PHIL 215 and one philosophy course at the 100 or 200 level; or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PHIL 406    Existentialism    3 Hours

A study of central thinkers in the existential movement and its representative themes of individualism, subjectivity, passion, freedom, absurdity, and responsibility. Note: One course in philosophy or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 415    Advanced Logic    3 Hours

Advanced topics in First Order Logic and topics in the Philosophy of Logic.

Prerequisite(s): PHIL 215

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021

PHIL 426    Philosophy and Old Age    3 Hours

Examination of philosophical themes bearing on old age, such as: meaning, memory, selfhood, autonomy, im/immortality, euthanasia, filial obligation, intergenerational justice, authority, dignity, virtue/vice and beauty.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2023

PHIL 427    Philosophy of Law    3 Hours

A study of theories on the nature and origin of law, basic legal concepts (obligation, right, equality, liberty, justice), legal moralism, church and state, civil disobedience, and other topics. Note: One philosophy course or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PHIL 432    Philosophy and Early Modern Science    3 Hours

A study of the links as between natural philosophy, jurisprudence, and the rise of experimentalism in the seventeenth century. Note: One philosophy course or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 433    History of Philosophy of Science    3 Hours

A treatment of the philosophical analyses of problems in science, such as Realism, Instrumentalism, Hypothetico-Deductivism, Models, Empiricism, Experimental Design, and Scientific change or Progress, studies in historical context. Note: One philosophy course or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PHIL 440    Readings in Ancient or Medieval Philosophy    3 Hours

Advanced study of a major thinker or movement in ancient or medieval philosophy. Note: One philosophy course or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; winter 2023

PHIL 450    Readings in Modern or Contemporary Philosophy    3 Hours

Advanced study of a major thinker or movement in modern or contemporary philosophy. Note: One philosophy course or permission of instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

PHIL 496    Senior Seminar    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

A capstone course designed for senior philosophy majors. Students will complete projects that demonstrate their research, writing, and analytical skills. Content areas of the seminar will vary by semester and instructor. Note: Senior standing and major in Philosophy or permission of instructor required.

Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Philosophy (745)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PHIL 499    Research in Philosophy    3 Hours

Directed study and research in one area of philosophy. The research will culminate in an acceptable thesis. Note: Open only to philosophy majors with at least a 3.0 grade point average in their senior year is required.

Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Philosophy (745)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023

Political Science (PS)

PS 110    American National Government    3 Hours

The essentials of the political system and processes, particularly at the national level, in the United States. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SB | SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PS 200    Latin American Society: Past and Present    3 Hours

A broad interdisciplinary introduction to the study of Latin America, emphasizing its regions, peoples, and cultures. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Equivalent(s): HIST 200, ANTH 200, SPAN 200, GEOG 200

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 201    Concepts of Political Science    3 Hours

Examines the linkage between politics and political thought in modern societies. Students apply a variety of theoretical concepts to specific policy areas.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PS 220    Judicial Process    3 Hours

An introduction to the American legal system, the process of legal reasoning and legal resolution of value conflicts. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PS 250    International Politics    3 Hours

An introductory course in international relations which is designed to acquaint the student with basic theories, terminology, motivations, inter-relationships and problems on an international scale. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SB | SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PS 260    Introduction to Comparative Politics    3 Hours

This course examines various characteristics of different political systems around the world. It introduces contending theories which seek to explain differences and similarities in governments and politics. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SB | SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PS 275    Introduction to Citizenship    3 Hours

Examines what it means to be a citizen of a community, nation, and world; designed to introduce students to the basic theories, concepts and issues of citizenship.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PS 299    Contemporary Topics in Political Science    1-3 Hours

Examination of significant current issues in political science not covered in regular departmental offerings.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PS 300    Model Assembly (Seminar)    1 Hour (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Explores the workings of a major international organization (e.g., NATO, OAU, Arab League, or UN). Students portray delegates to the organization at a simulation involving university students from around the country. The country being portrayed, the organization being simulated, and cost to student vary year by year.

Prerequisite(s): PS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 301    Using Statistics in Political Science    3 Hours

Understanding and application of statistics for the analysis of political phenomena and behavior. Uses statistical software to conduct statistical analysis of quantitative data.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; spring 2022; spring 2023

PS 302    Research Design in Political Science    3 Hours

Use of the scientific method as applied to political and social issues. Development of appropriate strategy and design to test research questions. Explores development of research questions, research ethics, research design, and collection of data.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023

PS 303    Politics and Film    3 Hours

Explores the relationship between politics and film. Demonstrates how film serves as a political archive and agent of social change and how film affects political views and representations of reality.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

PS 304    State Government    3 Hours

Political features of the American states and their governments. Explores similarities and differences among the states' constitutions and key governmental institutions. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2021; fall 2021; winter 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; summer 2023; fall 2023

PS 310    The American Presidency    3 Hours

An examination of the American presidency as a political institution; and the development of the presidential office, its powers and functions.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023

PS 311    Public Policy    3 Hours

Examines how issues get on the government agenda; how policy decisions are made; who implements policy and how well. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; spring 2023

PS 316    The Legislative Process    3 Hours

A study of legislatures and their role in the American government system. The emphasis is on the U.S. Congress but other legislative bodies are also studied.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

PS 320    American Studies I    3 Hours

This course is designed to examine the diverse origins and the decisive elements in the development of American culture. It should also provide a wide appreciation and a greater understanding of the mainstream of American thought. These goals are accomplished through the coordinated application of numerous viewpoints drawn from the contributing disciplines of English, Political Science and History. Note: Permission of instructor. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Equivalent(s): HIST 320

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022

PS 321    American Studies II    3 Hours

This course is designed to examine the diverse origins and the decisive elements in the development of American culture. It should also provide a wide appreciation and a greater understanding of the mainstream of American thought. These goals are accomplished through the coordinated application of numerous viewpoints drawn from the contributing disciplines of English, Political Science and History. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 324    Mock Trial I    1.5-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Introductory study of trial techniques used by lawyers in the courtroom. Students gain an appreciation for courtroom procedure, legal issues and public speaking by taking on the roles of attorneys and witnesses in a fictitious courtroom trial. Note: Permission of instructor.

Prerequisite(s): PS 110

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; fall 2022

PS 325    Mock Trial II    1.5-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Continuation of study of trial techniques used by lawyers in the courtroom. Students will concentrate on trial strategy, examination of witnesses and the presentation of arguments by taking on the roles of attorneys in a fictitious courtroom trial. Note: Permission of instructor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023

PS 326    Constitutional Law    3 Hours

Study and analysis of leading constitutional decisions dealing with judicial review, government powers over domestic and foreign affairs, federalism and the relationships between the functional branches of government.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022; fall 2023

PS 327    Civil Liberties    3 Hours

Study and analysis of leading constitutional decisions and other materials concerning individual liberties in the U.S.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PS 328    Criminal Justice Procedures    3 Hours

A study of constitutional criminal procedure, principally under the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Eighth, Ninth, and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2023

PS 330    Introduction to Political Theory    3 Hours

A survey of the great thinkers and issues of politics which have shaped western civilization. Note: Three hours of Political Science courses or permission of instructor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022; fall 2023

PS 331    Politics Outside the Box    3 Hours

Provides insight in the social construction of power by investigating political symbols, characters and argument in popular culture and public policy.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022

PS 338    Government and Ethics    3 Hours

Course examines ethical issues and controversies emerging from the behavior and decisions of public officials within the American political system. A variety of pedagogical techniques are employed to stimulate and develop ethical thinking, moral reasoning and written and oral communication skills. Note: Permission of instructor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021

PS 340    Principals of Public Administration    3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)

An exploration of theoretical and practical issues related to the administration of public programs, policies and organizations. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2023

PS 350    Political Terrorism    3 Hours

A survey of terrorism, recent trends, organizational structure, negotiations, role of the media, counter terrorism, and the impact on modern democracies.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2023

PS 352    International Relations of the Middle East    3 Hours

Introduction to international relations of Middle East and North Africa from historical, theoretical and contemporary perspectives. Focuses on interstate, regional and transnational relations. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): PS 250 and 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 355    International Organization and Law    3 Hours

Explores how the behavior of nominally sovereign countries is constrained or otherwise influenced by international law and other efforts to "organize" international relations. International institutions such as the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe are examined. Note: Permission of instructor.

Prerequisite(s): PS 250

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2023

PS 357    U S Foreign Policy    3 Hours

Analysis of the pattern and process of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the contemporary era. Includes study of the major internal and external factors, which shape foreign policy decisions. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): PS 110 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2021; spring 2021; summer 2021; winter 2022; spring 2022; summer 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023

PS 359    Politics of North Korea    3 Hours

Explores the politics and society of North Korea through a blend of scholarly work, news reports, art, propaganda, first-hand accounts, and documentaries.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PS 360    Government and Politics of Britain and Canada    3 Hours

A comparative analysis of the political cultures, institutions and processes of Britain and Canada. Course includes a comprehensive study of the parliamentary executive system and reference to major topical problems. Note: Permission of instructor.

Prerequisite(s): PS 260

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 361    Government and Politics of Western Europe    3 Hours

Structured comparative analysis of various Western European states. Includes an examination of political cultures, institutional organizations, and the policy processes in selected states. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

PS 362    Latin American Government and Politics    3 Hours

Basic governmental and political processes in Latin America. Emphasis on social and economic problems, political development, leadership recruitment, political instability and change. Note: Permission of instructor.

Prerequisite(s): PS 260

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2023

PS 363    Politics of Developing Nations    3 Hours

A study of the political culture, processes and problems of nations that have become independent since World War II.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 364    Chinese Politics    3 Hours

Exploration of China's domestic and international politics through academic and news sources, first-hand accounts, and documentaries.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

PS 365    Government and Politics of the Middle East    3 Hours

A comparative analysis of the political culture, institutions and processes of key Middle Eastern states. Focuses on issues of international and geostrategic significance of the region. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023; summer 2023

PS 366    Government and Politics in East Asia    3 Hours

An analysis of political development in selected east Asian nations, including Japan, Korea, China, Singapore and Thailand. Includes study of the interrelationship between politics, economics and culture primarily in the post-World War II period.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022; fall 2023

PS 367    Government and Politics of Russia and Eastern Europe    3 Hours

An analysis of government and politics of Russia and Eastern European countries with emphasis on political processes and institutions, political and economic reforms, and the prospects for democratic government. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2023

PS 368    African Government and Politics    3 Hours

Examines sub-Saharan African political and economic development. Focuses on several selected countries and explores the common political and economic problems and opportunities confronting African states. Note: Permission of instructor.

Prerequisite(s): PS 250 and PS 260

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 369    Central European Politics    3 Hours

A comparative analysis of the political culture, institutions and processes of Central European states and an examination of the impact of religion, empire and ideology on the political development of that region. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PS 370    American Political Parties and Interest Groups    3 Hours

Explores the role that political parties and interest groups play in American politics. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2023

PS 371    Public Opinion and Electoral Behavior    3 Hours

A study of the formation and expression of public opinion, of the attitudes and experiences which influence voting, and of the manner in which public policy is related to opinion and elections.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022

PS 372    Politics and the Mass Media    3 Hours

A study of the impact of television, newspapers, news magazines, and radio on national political institutions and political processes.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 373    Minority Politics    3 Hours

A study of the contemporary status and efforts made by African Americans, Hispanics and other minority groups to organize for political action; discusses political and socioeconomic constraints on the development of that power. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022

PS 374    Women and Politics    3 Hours

An examination of the political, economic and social status of American women from an historical and contemporary perspective; explores issues of concern to women in a political context. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PS 375    Fundamentals of Political Campaign Management    3 Hours

Provides students with an orientation to the basic systems and interrelated roles, which must be managed in order to produce electoral victory.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022

PS 376    Political Management    3 Hours

Appplied course with focus on developing skills related to political management including fundraising, issue advocacy and media strategy.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 377    Politics of the American South    3 Hours

Examination of politics in the American South from the pre-Civil War era to the present. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2021; spring 2022

PS 400    Selected Topics in American Government    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Course provides advanced students with an opportunity to analyze important substantive problems and current issues not presently covered by departmental offerings. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PS 403    Field Studies in Politics    3 Hours

Course is designed to involve students in practical problems of political research. Students are directed through the design and execution of a major field study.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023

PS 405    Washington Internship and Academic Seminars    3-6 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

An individualized internship and/or seminar experience in Washington, D.C. tailored to the student's area of interest. Placement is determined by the department academic advisor in collaboration with Washington professionals. May not be repeated toward major or minor credit.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2022; fall 2023

PS 407    Directed Studies in Government    3 Hours

Allows students to work independently with a specific instructor on an approved topic, issue or political concept/theme. Note: 3.0 grade point average required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2021; spring 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023

PS 412    Kentucky Government and Politics    3 Hours

A general survey course tracing the government and political development of the state from its constitutional beginning to the present. Primary focus will be on the major factors and issues in the state's political development within the context of the national governmental setting. The course will trace the role and influence of various political and social institutions in the state's political development and their implications for the current political and governmental situation. Note: Permission of instructor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

PS 420    Selected Topics in Public Law    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Course provides students with the opportunity to analyze important legal questions and current issues related to the field of public law. Note: Permission of instructor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021

PS 424    Administrative Law    3 Hours

A study of the development of and trends in administrative law with emphasis on the problems caused by the exercise of quasi legislative and quasi judicial powers by administrative agencies, including the rights, duties and liabilities of public officials, relief against administrative action, jurisdiction, conclusiveness and judicial control. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 430    Selected Topics in Political Theory    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Examination of specialized topics in political theory not covered in regular departmental offerings.

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2023

PS 435    American Political Thought    3 Hours

A study of American political theory from the American Revolution to the present, including issues such as slavery, civil rights, and the meaning of political and economic freedom. Note: Three hours of Political Science courses or Permission of Instructor is required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; spring 2022

PS 449    International Political Economy    3 Hours

Explores the role of governments, corporations, non-governmental entities and multilateral institutions in the global economy. Discusses issues of free trade and protectionism, both tariffs and non-tariff barriers to trade. Examines issues of monetary policy in national and international contexts. Note: Permission of instructor.

Prerequisite(s): PS 250 and PS 260

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2022

PS 450    Selected Topics in International Relations    3 Hours

Based in a seminar setting, this course facilitates an extensive exploration of particular aspects of international relations in the contemporary world.

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2022; summer 2023

PS 457    Theories of War and Peace in International Relations    3 Hours

Explores the various theories of the outbreak, conduct and causes of war and theories of war termination and international peace. Note: Permission of instructor. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; fall 2023

PS 460    Selected Topics in Comparative Politics    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Based on a seminar setting, this course facilitates an extensive exploration of particular aspects of comparative politics in the contemporary world.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; summer 2022; winter 2023; summer 2023

PS 480    Selected Topics in Public Policy    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Seminar on special topics in public policy and public administration. Note: Permission of Instructor required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 488    Seminar in Political Communication    3 Hours

The role, processes, and effects of communication within the context of politics. This course is required of all Political Communication Certificate students. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 490    Internship in State Government    6 Hours

Evaluation by the academic coordinator and agency supervisors of the intern's performance of assigned agency functions. Interns are full-time employees (40 hr/wk) for the duration of their internship program. Job assignments are made with the mutual consultation and consent of the intern, the agency and the academic coordinator.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 491    Research in State Government    3 Hours

Submission of a major research paper by the intern to an academic coordinator. Research is supervised by the academic coordinator in conjunction with the agency supervisor. May deal with assigned agency research function or may be independent of intern's role, but related to the agency need.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 492    Kentucky Legislative Processes    3 Hours

Focuses on contemporary problems and processes of the state legislative process. Discusses and analyzes state legislative affairs through discussion of issues by key state government personnel as well as through textbook materials. Note: Acceptance into the Kentucky Legislative Intern Program is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 493    Issues in Human Resource Management    3 Hours

Focuses on Kentucky public personnel practices; examines the Kentucky merit system in theoretical and applied context; extensive emphasis on practical knowledge and use of State personnel for class lectures and projects.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 497    Senior Seminar in International Affairs    3 Hours

A capstone seminar that strengthens students' research, written and oral communication skills in international affairs and engages students and faculty in sustained consideration of significant international issues/questions. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023

PS 498    Internship in Public Administration    3 Hours

Designed to provide the student with work experience in a public sector or non-profit agency combined with faculty direction. Note: Permission of the instructor is required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

PS 499    Senior Seminar in Government    3 Hours

Integrates concepts and approaches learned during study of government. Engages students and faculty in sustained consideration of significant political issues/questions. Note: Permission of instructor is required.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023