Please see the section on Course Description Symbols and Terms in the University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.

Political Science and Criminal Justice Course Offerings

SUBJ NUM	Title	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
POLS 101	Vital Political Problems	3.0	FS	GE
An examination of major political problems challenging America today. Emphasis on class discussion of controversial topics involving political policy in the context of the study of political science. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (007467)
POLS 102	Politics of the Developing World	3.0	FS	GE GC
The political dynamics of selected developing countries. Major emphasis will be on problems of poverty, colonialism, comparative political structures and behavior, imperialism, and international relations. The course will also focus on tensions in the political culture between traditional and non-traditional values in contemporary developing societies. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (007468)
POLS 112	Law, Politics, and the Distribution of Justice	3.0	FA	GE USD
An introduction to the structure, composition, and performance of the judicial process and its role in the resolution of societal conflicts. Following an examination into the nature of law, the course focuses on the essential actors in the process and review the performance of their roles. Issues critical to a free society freedom of speech, rights of the accused, equal protection and their impact on certain populations are studied to illustrate the politics of distributing "justice" by means of the courts. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (007470)
POLS 141	Introduction to International Relations	3.0	FS
Introduces students to concepts and theories in International Relations, with an emphasis on contemporary issues. This is a pre-requisites for upper-division International Relations courses. 3 hours lecture. (021819)
POLS 142	Introduction to Comparative Politics	3.0	FS
This course introduces students to concepts and theories in Comparative Politics, as well as the politics of the different regions of the world. This course is a pre-requisite for upper-division comparative politics courses. 3 hours lecture. (021810)
POLS 155	American Government: National, State, and Local	3.0	SMF	GE
An investigation of Who gets What, When, and How in national, state, and local politics. Also includes principles of American governmental institutions, federal systems, congress, president, and courts. Fulfills California state graduation and credential requirements for the American Constitution. (Satisfies requirement in California Administrative Code, Title 5, Section 40404.) 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (007475)
POLS 198	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	FS
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours lecture. (007487)
POLS 244	Introduction to Public Relations	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Sophomore standing; concurrent enrollment in or prior completion of JOUR 260 for Journalism majors. A survey of public relations: problems and issues, organization and operations, skills and techniques, careers and opportunities. 3 hours lecture. (021832)
POLS 250	Introduction to Criminal Justice	3.0	SP	GE USD
The history and philosophy of criminal justice in America; recapitulation of the system and how it disproportionately impacts different groups in America; identifying the various sub-systems, role expectations, and their interrelationships; theories of crime, punishment, and rehabilitation; ethics, education, and training for professionalism in the criminal justice system. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (001563)
POLS 257	Juvenile Justice Process	3.0	INQ
This course provides an introduction to the juvenile justice system in the United States. Juvenile justice is a key component of the overall criminal justice system. The course highlights the activity in the main institutions of juvenile justice (the police, the courts, and corrections), examines past practice as well as concentrating on current policies, explores some of the reasons for treating juveniles differently from adults, and investigates future policy in juvenile justice. 3 hours lecture. (007478)
POLS 258	Introduction to Criminal Law	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: POLS 250 or faculty permission. Examines current and developing programs and issues in the field of criminal justice. 3 hours seminar. (001603)
POLS 259	Chico Police Service Learning Practicum	3.0	INQ
This course examines criminal investigation techniques and includes a survey of a wide variety of topics in criminal investigation. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of education toward gaining employment and enhancing law enforcement careers. During the semester, students participate in a Chico community service learning project. 3 hours lecture. (007479)
POLS 301	Vital Political Problems	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing. An examination of major political problems challenging America today. Emphasis on class discussion of controversial topics involving political policy in the context of the study of political science. 3 hours lecture. (015555)
POLS 312	Issues in Criminal Justice	3.0	INQ
Prerequisite: POLS 250 or concurrent enrollment. This course is a seminar on selected topics in criminal justice. 3 hours lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (020601)
POLS 324W	Women and Politics (W)	3.0	FA	GE W
This course is also offered as WMST 324W. Analysis of the roles of women in politics; volunteer, candidate, elected official. Considers politics of the women's movement and women's issues. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. This is an approved General Education course. Formerly POLS 324I. (007491)
POLS 327	The Politics of Race and Ethnicity in the United States	3.0	FS	USD
This course is also offered as MCGS 327. Analysis of the role of race and ethnicity in the American political process, including a critique of their role in local, state, and national elections. Factors accounting for participation and non-participation will be analyzed. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved US Diversity course. (000137)
POLS 331W	Introduction to Research Methods (W)	3.0	FS	GW W
Prerequisite: Completion of GE Written Communication (A2) requirement. An introduction to research methods that includes framing research questions, evaluating and using scholarly resources, and developing an appreciation for multi-disciplinary and ethics in research. Emphasizes the critique of theory and paradigms of conducting research. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly POLS 331. (007495)
POLS 331X	Techniques of Research	1.0	FS
This course covers use of computers and the Internet in political science research. 3 hours independent study. Credit/no credit grading. (007496)
POLS 332	Criminal Justice Ethics	3.0	FS
An investigation of contemporary moral issues involved in police work and corrections, such as deadly force, entrapment, undercover work, corruption, and prisoners' rights. 3 hours seminar. (007269)
POLS 340A	Model United Nations	3.0	FA
Introduction to the United Nations, its procedures and current issues on its agenda to prepare delegates to participate in the a Model United Nations Conference held during the fall semester. 3 hours lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (007498)
POLS 340B	Model United Nations	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: POLS 340A. Individual and group research on an assigned country and its U.N. policy positions plus mock session activities to prepare delegates to represent that country at the National Model United Nations Conference held in New York City during the spring semester. Either attendance at the New York City conference or a 15-page research paper on a U.N. agenda topic is required. 3 hours lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (007499)
POLS 340C	Model United Nations Leadership	1.0 -12.0	FS
Prerequisites: POLS 340A, POLS 340B. This course directs students through the process of being an officer in the Model United Nations (MUN) program. As an officer, students have the opportunity to take on significant responsibilities in the management and mentoring process of the MUN program. Must have successfully completed at least two semesters of Model United Nations courses previously and have received both the recommendation of peers within the program and the faculty advisor's permission. Enrollment in this course is required for both the fall and spring semesters. In addition, each officer will have responsibilities over winter break intersession. Must participate in MUN conferences in both the fall and spring semester. 1 hour seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 12.0 units. (021165)
POLS 344	U.S. Foreign Policy	3.0	FS
Course analyzes post-World War II American foreign policy. It examines the origins and development of the cold war, with attention to nuclear capabilities, the growth of national security bureaucracy, and the impact on American society. Special attention is given to the decision-making process as well as to theories of personality, organizational behavior, and the political process as these affect the cold war basis of American foreign policy. 3 hours lecture. (007503)
POLS 345	War and Security	3.0	FS
The objective of this course is to further the student's understanding of the causes and nature of both international war and within state conflicts. The course covers the different typologies war and strategies of waging war, as well as, the evolution of arms/weapons. The final part of the course focuses on the causes and consequence of the civil conflict and the nature of intrastate organized violence. We also discuss the rationale for international bodies and individual nation's attempts to intervene and prevent wars. 3 hours lecture. (021830)
POLS 346	International Organizations and NGO's	3.0	FS
This course explores modern political phenomenon of how states and groups use international organizations (IOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to address pressing international problems. After reviewing the theoretical basis for cooperation, the course examines IOs and NGOs in their any forms (e.g. the United Nations, OPEC, Common Markets, the IMF, the World Bank, multinational corporations, Amnesty International and Greenpeace). Students learn the details of these different IOs and NGOs function as the basis for a discussion of two fundamental questions of international relations: Whether or not countries and/or groups can cooperate to solve international problems? And, if so, how? 3 hours lecture. Formerly POLS 442. (007561)
POLS 347	Comparative Political Behavior	3.0	FS
This course introduces students to the study of mass political behavior. The course examines how well theories if voting, partisanship, protest, and public opinion travel to other parts of the world. Students are also introduced to the forms of political participation in contexts dissimilar from our own, such as authoritarian regimes. 3 hours lecture. (021813)
POLS 351	Introduction to Legal Studies	3.0	FS
Social science-based analysis of the interaction of law and its social contexts. Course elements include fundamentals of legal systems, their institutional structures, and critical issues. Case studies and interpretive themes will provide analytical focus. 3 hours lecture. (007504)
POLS 352	Policing in America	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: POLS 250. This course examines the history, philosophy, evolution, and legal obligations of the police and the roles, functions, and policy issues associated with policing in a democratic society. 3 hours lecture. (007505)
POLS 353	Corrections	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: POLS 250. This course surveys corrections in the United States, including the history, philosophy, and evolution of correctional systems; correctional institutions, community-based corrections, and correctional policy issues. 3 hours lecture. (007506)
POLS 354	Community Corrections	3.0	INQ
This course considers the historical development of probation and parole, addresses questions regarding how and why probation and parole have changed over time, and outlines how community corrections are influenced by the constraints of the criminal justice system and how it is affected by public perceptions of crime and criminals. Students assess the success and feasibility of community corrections given current resources and public sentiment. Finally, the course addresses the population of offenders that are on probation and parole, their likely backgrounds and futures. 3 hours lecture. (007507)
POLS 355	American Government: National, State, and Local	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing. An investigation of Who gets What, When, and How in national, state, and local politics. Also includes principles of American governmental institutions, federal system, congress, president, and courts. Fulfills California state graduation and credential requirements for the American Constitution. (Satisfies requirement in California Administrative Code, Title 5, Section 40404.) 3 hours lecture. (015523)
POLS 363	Crime Prevention	3.0	INQ
Prerequisite: POLS 250. This course examines the situational, social, and legislative approaches to the prevention of crime and delinquency. The emphasis is on the theories of victimization and the extent to which victim demographics play a role in crime, and the implementation and consequences of various crime prevention policies and approaches and their differential effects on victims throughout various sectors of society. 3 hours lecture. (021288)
POLS 364	Restorative Justice	3.0	INQ
Prerequisite: POLS 250 (may be taken concurrently). This course highlights the responsibilities and roles of all community members in accomplishing justice. In particular, it focuses on harms instead of crimes, the debt owed to victims and communities instead of to the state, and making the situation right through restoration and other methods instead of constructing deviancy. 3 hours lecture. (021289)
POLS 365	Justice System Administration	3.0	FS	GE USD
This course introduces students to the theories and practices of justice, as well as the administration of justice. As a writing intensive course, students examine pertinent justice issues of local, national, or international significance, identify the theory (or theories) of justice relevant to the situation, and investigate how justice was (or was not) administered. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (021367)
POLS 365W	Justice System Administration (W)	3.0	FS	GE USD W
This course introduces students to the theories and practices of justice, as well as the administration of justice. As a writing intensive course, students examine pertinent justice issues of local, national, or international significance, identify the theory (or theories) of justice relevant to the situation, and investigate how justice was (or was not) administered. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. Formerly POLS 365Z. (007600)
POLS 391E	Simulation in Political Science: International Relations	1.0	FS
This course is a simulation on selected topics in international relations. 3 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007512)
POLS 392	Political Film and Novel	3.0	INQ
Regular viewing of a political film or discussion of a political novel, with lecture-discussion led by a faculty member who has a special interest in the subject matter of the film or novel. 3 hours lecture. (007515)
POLS 397	Tutorial in Political Science	1.0	SP
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. Individual consultation with faculty in working on special projects, reading lists, or areas of deficiency. 3 hours independent study. Credit/no credit grading. (007519)
POLS 398	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	FS
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours lecture. (007522)
POLS 399	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007523)
POLS 401W	Sexual Minorities Law/Politics (W)	3.0	SP	GE USD W
This course is also offered as MCGS 401W. Students examine how the law (made by judges, legislators, and voters) has influenced and continues to influence the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals. Students critically analyze how the rights of sexual minorities have developed or failed to develop. The class includes discussion of gay movements' politics, accomplishments, and opponents. Finally, contemporary issues surrounding legal and political issues that impact sexual minorities are addressed. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. Formerly POLS 401I. (020186)
POLS 402	State and Local Government	3.0	FS
Analysis of the history and development of the American federal system and the role of state and local governments, with special emphasis directed to the government and politics of California. Among the major topics considered: the state and local political systems; the political environment; party, interest group, citizen, and media inputs; and current problems and changing functions affecting state and local governments. 3 hours lecture. (007524)
POLS 404	Interest Groups and Lobbying	3.0	INQ
Prerequisites: POLS 402 and POLS 473 are recommended. Course will focus on the lobbying process at the state and national level and will consider the role interest groups play within the American-state governmental milieu. 3 hours lecture. (007526)
POLS 405	Health Care Policy and Politics	3.0	SP
Prerequisite: HCSV 331. This course is also offered as HCSV 435. An analysis of the political forces, both private and public, which have an impact upon the health industry in the United States. Focusing on problems related to the delivery of health care, the course will cover such issues as availability, accessibility, appropriateness, acceptance, accounting, and alternatives. 3 hours seminar. (001587)
POLS 410	International Law	3.0	INQ
Perquisite: POLS 141. This course explores the international laws that govern the behavior of nation-states. Students in this course learn a variety of skills, including how to brief cases, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the international legal system, and conduct original research on an international legal topic of their choosing. Though this course covers the broad system of how international laws are made as well as the normative content of those laws, special attention is given to how the United States engages with the international law. 3 hours lecture. (021827)
POLS 411	Political Economy	3.0	INQ
Prerequisite: POLS 141. Examines the intersection of the market and the polis, including the emergence of capitalism and international trade. The first part of the course focuses on the evolution of market-oriented societies by surveying classical readings in political economy including Hegel, Kojeve, Locke, Ricardo, Marx, and Polanyi. The second part examines the complex dynamics between the state and the economy with an emphasis on contemporary challenges (e.g., the politics of fiscal and monetary policy, economic integration, international trade and finance, human rights and labor issues, poverty, and inequality). 3 hours lecture. (021828)
POLS 412	Comparative Political Institutions	3.0	FS
Prerequisite: POLS 142. This course introduces students to the variety of institutional arrangements found outside of the United States. The course covers both authoritarian and democratic institutions, but focuses primarily on the latter. Specifically, the course covers executive and electoral arrangements, as well as federal v. unitary systems. At the culmination of the course, students are able to assess advantages and disadvantages of each institutional arrangement. 3 hours lecture. (021803)
POLS 413	Political Development	3.0	SP
This is a comparative politics course, exploring the concept of political development, with a focus on developing nations. Political development, or the capacity and strength of government, is an essential, but often neglected component of development. In this course, we explore different definitions and conceptions of political development, and issues associated with political development. These issues include ethnic conflict, corruption, political upheavals such as coups and revolutions, and democratization. Students read several seminal texts in comparative politics, as well as current empirical research. 3 hours lecture. (007530)
POLS 414	Politics of Terrorism	3.0	INQ
A multi-dimensional and cross-disciplinary study of the historical and contemporary phenomenon of terrorism and counterterrorist policy. Focus is on terrorism as different from war, the sources and practitioners of terrorism, and the multiple rationales for its use. Study will include both domestic and international terrorism, private and state as well as national and international counterterrorist policy. Particular attention on the threat of terrorism to liberal democracy and development of liberal democratic counterterrorist policy. 3 hours lecture. Formerly POLS 448. (007575)
POLS 421	Methods of Political Inquiry	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: POLS 331 or permission of instructor. Investigation of methodology and the techniques used in the study of political phenomena, with emphasis on the construction of appropriate research designs, data collection, and analysis. 3 hours discussion. (007542)
POLS 424	Public Opinion and Propaganda	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors only. This course is also offered as CMST 424, JOUR 424. Analysis of major factors in group and individual opinion formation, with emphasis on politics, opinion measurement, and the role of mass media in the political process. 3 hours lecture. (002029)
POLS 426	Women and the Law	3.0	INQ
This course is also offered as WMST 426. In this class, students discuss how the criminal justice system and civil law affect women's lives and their experiences with the state. Students take a historical view on how women have made progress toward equality in the United States by using the legal system in a variety of ways and examine women's status as criminal justice professionals, victims, and perpetrators of crime and how the criminal justice system deals with women in these positions. 3 hours lecture. (007547)
POLS 427S	U.S. Campaigns and Elections	3.0	INQ
An exploration of campaigns and elections in the United States with emphasis on the activities and strategies of candidates for office, the behavior of voters, the role of political parties, interest groups, and the media, and the financing of campaigns. 3 hours lecture. (007549)
POLS 428	Politics and the Media	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331W, and CMST 350 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors only. This course is also offered as CMST 428, JOUR 428. An examination of the relationships of politics and the mass media. Topics may include politics, visual rhetoric, the public sphere studies, media analysis, public policy decisions, political media campaigns, and social movements. 3 hours seminar. (002246)
POLS 429W	Capstone in American Politics (W)	3.0	SP	W
This is a seminar on selected topics in American politics, including American political theory, institutions, and processes. This seminar assesses the substantive knowledge, critical analysis, writing, speaking, and computer skills of senior-level students. 3 hours seminar. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly POLS 429. (007550)
POLS 430	Criminal Justice Field Research	3.0	INQ
This course serves as the experiential learning component of the Consortium for Public Safety Research. Students apply various data collection, policy analysis, and reporting techniques to real-time public safety service projects under the guidance of the CPSR's Executive Director. Projects may vary during the semester, so students should see their coursework as project based. This is a hands-on course, where you students interact with professionals from the criminal justice field and those involved in the criminal justice system, thus, students shall carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism. 3 hours seminar. (021618)
POLS 432	Recent American Political Thought	3.0	INQ
Considers competing democratic and republican claims in the context of social Darwinism, Populism, Progressivism, New Deal, and Post-World War II. Uses primary sources and novels. 3 hours lecture. (007554)
POLS 434	Origins of Western Political Thought	3.0	FS
The classical roots of western political philosophy and their relationship to contemporary political theory. 3 hours seminar. (007279)
POLS 437	Contemporary Political Thought	3.0	INQ
An extended discussion of the nature of anarchy, corporatism, oligarchy, classical liberalism, radical liberalism, democratic socialism, communism, and fascism, with a continued focus on these political cultures and their ideological expressions in contemporary politics. 3 hours seminar. (007281)
POLS 438	Jurisprudence: Philosophy of Law	3.0	FS
This course is also offered as PHIL 438. The philosophical nature and origins of law. Topics to be examined include theories of law, justice, the relationship of law to morality, natural law, responsibility, punishment, and other basic concepts. Approach is both theoretical and via case studies. 3 hours lecture. (007282)
POLS 441W	Capstone in Comparative Politics and International Relations (W)	3.0	FS	W
Prerequisites: POLS 141, POLS 142. This course is a culminating experience in the International Relations Program. Students use the skills and knowledge acquired in previous IR courses to conduct a semester long research project relating to either sub-field. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly POLS 441. (007559)
POLS 443	Politics of Europe	3.0	INQ
Recommended: POLS 141, POLS 142. This course introduces students to the Politics of European countries, as well as the Politics of the European union. Covers both comparative politics and international relations. 3 hours lecture. Formerly POLS 417. (007539)
POLS 444	Politics of Asia	3.0	INQ
This is a comparative politics course, introducing students to the Politics of Asia. The course covers seminal topics in comparative politics, such as regime type, democratization, models of development, political institutions, and political behavior, using selected Asian cases to illustrate the concepts. The course draws upon cases from across Asia, including the People's Republic of China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and Pakistan. 3 hours lecture. (021812)
POLS 445	Politics of Africa	3.0	F1
This is a comparative politics course, introducing students to the politics of Africa. Specifically, the course examines political and economic development, regime type and transition, ethnicity, and violence, using African cases as illustrations. 3 hours lecture. (021829)
POLS 446	Politics of the Middle East	3.0	F1
Analyzes the foreign policies of the Middle Eastern nations. Emphasizes Arab-Israeli and inter-Arab dynamics, the impacts of Muslim culture, sectarian strife, and the roles of external forces, including the superpowers. 3 hours lecture. Formerly POLS 446A. (007565)
POLS 449	Issues in Comparative Politics and International Relations	3.0	INQ
This course focuses on selected issues in comparative politics and international relations. The topics rotate, depending upon student demand and instructor interests. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (007576)
POLS 450	Criminal Procedure	3.0	SP
The machinery of criminal justice in theory and practice; the significance of the rule of law and its exceptions in the actual administration of justice. This course will concentrate on the application of the fourth, fifth, and sixth amendments to the U.S. Constitution in the administration of justice and the application of modern behavioral research as it applies to police and court administration. 3 hours lecture. (007588)
POLS 451A	Constitutional Law: Powers and Restraints	3.0	FA
Analysis of judicial cases and related materials illustrating historical and current interpretations of constitutional problems such as the powers of the courts, congress, and President; and the balance of federal-state power in such areas as commerce and taxation. 3 hours lecture. (007577)
POLS 451B	Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties	3.0	FS
This course is also offered as MCGS 451B. Analysis of judicial cases and related materials illustrating historical and current interpretations of constitutional problems such as racial discrimination, criminal procedures, and freedom of speech and religion. 3 hours lecture. (005645)
POLS 452	Alternative Dispute Resolution	3.0	SP
Focus on the various methods of negotiation and dispute resolution including mediation and arbitration with primary emphasis on the legal rights and principles involved in alternative dispute resolution especially in the process of arbitration. Major social and scientific theories of conflict will be explored as well as conventional disciplines and new approaches of conflict avoidance and resolution. Ethical issues involved in negotiation, mediation, and arbitration will be covered. 3 hours lecture. (007579)
POLS 453	Legal Analysis	3.0	FA
The objective of this course is to teach students legal analysis using Socratic method, briefing cases, and law-school-type examinations. The course will be aimed at students considering law school. 3 hours lecture. (007583)
POLS 454W	Legal Research and Writing (W)	3.0	FS	W
Learn techniques of legal research and writing. Write briefs, memoranda, and other legal documents based on library research with cases, treatises, law reviews, statutes, regulations, etc. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly POLS 454. (007581)
POLS 455	Civil Litigation	3.0	FS
Prerequisite: POLS 454W. In this course, students learn court system and jurisdictional issues, as well as follow a civil case from the first client interview through preparation for trial. The course focuses on the legal ethics and professional responsibility of paralegals and legal professionals in the civil litigation process, including topics such as calendaring, pleadings, court forms, discovery methods, motion practice, and other legal documents and tasks encountered by professionals in the legal field. 3 hours lecture. (007582)
POLS 459	Senior Seminar in Legal Studies	3.0	FS
This course is a senior seminar on selected topics in legal studies. 3 hours seminar. (007587)
POLS 459DW	Senior Seminar in Criminal Justice (W)	3.0	FS	W
Prerequisites: POLS 421 and faculty permission. This course involves an integrated analysis and critical examination of all of the subfields of criminal justice, including criminology, policing, adjudication, corrections, and criminal justice process and policy. This seminar will assess the substantive knowledge, critical analysis, writing, speaking, and computer skills of senior-level students. 3 hours seminar. This is an approved Writing Course. (007591)
POLS 460A	Introduction to Public Administration	3.0	FS
Executive function in government; survey of the principles of administrative organization, personnel management, financial administration, administrative law, administrative policies. Problems and trends in government as a career. 3 hours lecture. (007592)
POLS 460B	Public Personnel Administration	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: POLS 460A or concurrent enrollment. A survey of the processes of recruiting and managing personnel in the public service. The philosophy of public personnel administration, organization for personnel administration, history and evolution of the career system, comparative modern structures, and general processes of personnel. Both traditional and behavioral literature. 3 hours lecture. (007593)
POLS 460C	Administration of Public Financial Resources	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: POLS 460A or concurrent enrollment. A comprehensive survey of the theory and practice of public financial administration in the United States. The budget as an instrument of fiscal policy; budget preparation and classification, with special emphasis on program and performance budgeting. Problems in budget authorization, execution, and control. 3 hours lecture. (007594)
POLS 460E	Police Administration and Management	3.0	INQ
This course introduces students to the organization of police departments and explores the history of policing and organizational theory. It further examines the role of the police executive as a public manager and as a leadership position. Topics for the course include departmental management, police operations, budgeting, discipline, promotion, external political factors, and public planning and research. By the end of the course, students should have a general knowledge of public organizations and specific knowledge about the operation and management of police departments. 3 hours lecture. (007595)
POLS 461	Environmental Politics and Policy	3.0	FA
Investigation and analysis of the political nature of the environmental crisis in the United States and the development of legal and administrative mechanisms for handling environmental problems. 3 hours lecture. (007596)
POLS 462	Organizational Theory	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: POLS 460A or concurrent enrollment. An intensive examination of the theory and research on organizational design, with an emphasis on applications of the theories. Focus is on how organizations develop structures to meet various internal (e.g., size, technology) and external (e.g., stakeholders, uncertainty) demands. 3 hours lecture. (007597)
POLS 464	Administrative Law	3.0	SP
Study of the role of administrative law in American government. Scope and implications of discretionary decision-making. 3 hours lecture. (007599)
POLS 468	Planning Law	3.0	INQ
Review and analysis of the present and changing nature of planning and land-use control law, particularly as the law is applied in California. 3 hours seminar. (007605)
POLS 471A	Public Policy Formation	3.0	FA
Critical examination of the process of policy formation in American governments. Relationship of executive, legislative, and judicial branches in policy formation. A significant policy area will be examined, with emphasis on both statutory and constitutional bases and the social/political factors influencing policy development. 3 hours lecture. (007607)
POLS 471BW	Policy Analysis Capstone Seminar (W)	3.0	SP	W
Prerequisites: POLS 421, POLS 471A. An examination of the approaches, models, methods, and concepts of public policy analysis, with special emphasis on program evaluation, research methodologies, implementation problems, and policy evaluation models. Recommended for political science and public administration majors and minors. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. Formerly POLS 471B. (007608)
POLS 472	The Presidency	3.0	INQ
A comparative analysis of the executive component of government. Emphasis on the national executive, selected state executives, and selected executives in other nations. 3 hours lecture. (007609)
POLS 473	Congress	3.0	INQ
Analysis of the structure, processes, and behavior in legislative bodies. Emphasis on a comparison of selected legislative bodies. 3 hours lecture. (007610)
POLS 481	Law and Disadvantaged Persons	3.0	INQ
This course is also offered as SWRK 481. Explores legal issues facing the poor, older adults, disabled, and minorities, and how to advance the legal rights of the disadvantaged. Family law, consumerism, small claims court, Social Security, welfare law, and landlord/tenant rights are addressed from theoretical and practical perspectives, with an emphasis on advocating those rights. 3 hours lecture. (009431)
POLS 489A	Internship in Public Administration	1.0 -15.0	SMF
Prerequisites: 3.0 cumulative GPA and faculty permission. Work experience in selected governmental agencies supervised by faculty members and the staff of the cooperating agencies. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007614)
POLS 489B	Internship in International Relations	1.0 -3.0	SMF
Prerequisite: POLS 341 (may be taken concurrently). This course involves an internship in selected government agencies or with an elected official, political party organization, interest group, or media outlet that is concerned with international organizations, non-governmental organizations, or domestic agencies concerned with international issues, foreign policy, or governmental action. No more than 3 units may be counted toward the major or minor. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (021293)
POLS 489C	Internship in Political Science	1.0 -3.0	SMF
Prerequisites: 3.0 cumulative GPA and faculty permission. Work experience with an elected official, political party organization, interest group, or media outlet. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007616)
POLS 489E	Internship in Criminal Justice	1.0 -3.0	SMF
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor. Field work with criminal justice agencies in the areas of policing, courts, and corrections. Work supervised by the faculty internship coordinator and the staff of the internship office. Directed readings and writings may be assigned. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007618)
POLS 489G	Internship in Sustainability	1.0 -3.0	SMF
Field work with legal, political, or governmental agencies or with an elected official, political party organization, or interest group in the areas of sustainability, environmental issues, and/or the management of scarce resources. Work is supervised by faculty and the staff of cooperating agencies organizations. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020622)
POLS 489K	Internship in Legal Studies	3.0	SMF
Prerequisite: Faculty permission. Field work in a public or private law office. Work supervised by attorneys in cooperating legal organizations. POLS 454 Legal Research and Writing is highly recommended for placement in private or public law offices. 9 hours independent study. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007621)
POLS 489P	Work or Community Experience in Selected Governmental or Community Agencies	1.0 -15.0	SMF
Prerequisites: Senior standing, faculty permission. Credit for previously acquired work or community experience. Such credit determined by the Internship Coordinator, dependent upon length of service and experience. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007623)
POLS 490	Legal Clinic Practicum	3.0	SMF
Students engage in practical work at the on-campus Community Legal Information Center under the supervision of a faculty member and also participate in seminar and training workshops that focus on the substantive law, doctrine, theory, skills, and ethical questions that arise in the legal practice area. 3 hours clinical. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (021759)
POLS 491	Trial and Appellate Advocacy	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing. Participation in mock trials and other law activities. Oral argument, legal research, and brief-writing. Must participate in the moot court competition. 3 hours lecture. Credit/no credit grading. (007632)
POLS 493	Community Research	1.0 -15.0	FS
Prerequisites: Approval of the Department of Political Science. This course is a special topic offered for 1.0-15.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Organized research and development of a problem in community administration. Students may enroll for 1 to 15 units, and will engage for a part or the whole of their time in the community. A seminar focusing on analysis of the project and the experience will be held weekly or at other appropriate times. Only a total of 6 units of POLS 489 and POLS 493 may be counted toward the requirements of the major or the Paralegal Certificate. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (007655)
POLS 495	Community Legal Information Center Directorship	1.0 -15.0	FS
Prerequisite: Approval of the Department of Political Science. This course directs students through the process of being a director at the Community Legal Information Center (CLIC). As a director of CLIC, the students have the opportunity to take on significant administrative responsibilities for the day-to-day operations of the on-campus law clinic. Registration for this course is attained through an application process in the spring semester. Enrollment in this course is required in both the fall and spring semesters. In addition, each director will have CLIC responsibilities during the summer and intersession. Only a total of 3.0 units of this course may be counted towards the requirements of the major or the Paralegal Certificate. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (020651)
POLS 498	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	FS
Study in political science related to specialized subjects of topical and current interest. Intensive reading. Topics may be offered in American Government, Comparative Government, Political Behavior, Political Theory, International Relations, Public Law, or Public Administration. 1 hour seminar. (007665)
POLS 499	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007682)
POLS 499H	Honors in Political Science	3.0	INQ
Independent study resulting in a piece of scholarly or creative work involving substantial research to be completed and publicly presented. This course is not available to graduate students. 3 hours lecture. (007683)
POLS 600	American Institutions and Public Organizations	3.0	FA
This is a first-semester course. It provides an introduction to the relationship of American political institutions and public organizations. The focus of this graduate course is on developing an understanding of the interdependency of American political institutions (e.g., Congress, parties) and the performance of public organizations. The major objective is to familiarize the new graduate student with the broad field of public administration in preparation for the more direct focus offered by subsequent courses in the Master of Public Administration degree program. A legislative analysis paper is required. 3 hours seminar. (007684)
POLS 601	State and Local Government	3.0	FA
Intensive reading and research on topics related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of research usually required. 3 hours seminar. (007685)
POLS 602	Public Administration and Democracy	3.0	FA
The purpose of this course is to assist students in developing an understanding of the most prevalent theories, issues, problems, institutions, and actors related to American public administration. Students explore literature that investigates the origins of American government. Specifically, the course examines questions of decision making and span of control in public administration. 3 hours seminar. (007686)
POLS 604	Seminar in Political Communication	3.0	FS
This course is also offered as CMST 604. This seminar examines various political communication phenomena both in the United States and the international stage. Aspects of political communication research covered include: media and politics, image politics, visual rhetoric, and public sphere studies. The course emphasizes literature on political communication while simultaneously encouraging students to consider the boundaries of the political as it relates to the study of communication. 3 hours seminar. (002255)
POLS 611	Seminar in Comparative Government	3.0	INQ
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of research usually required. 3 hours seminar. (015552)
POLS 621	Seminar in American Politics	3.0	FA
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of research usually required. 3 hours seminar. (007687)
POLS 624	Seminar on Public Opinion	3.0	INQ
Intensive readings and research on topics related to the scholarly examination of public opinion in the United States. Topics include the relationship of public opinion to democratic theory, research methodology in public opinion, the major sociological and psychological theories of public opinion, perception and opinion formation, and the historical and contemporary content of public opinion in the United States. 3 hours seminar. (007689)
POLS 626	Interest Groups, Protest Movements, and Political Change	3.0	INQ
This course is a graduate-level seminar on interests and movements in the United States. The objective is to gain an advanced knowledge of the various theories and research findings in the literature dealing with political groups in American politics, especially protest groups, movements and mainstream interest groups. The course also examines the practical effect of these groups and movements, as measured by demonstrable political change. 3 hours seminar. (007690)
POLS 627	U.S. Campaigns and Elections	3.0	INQ
Intensive readings and research on topics related to the scholarly examination of U.S. campaigns and elections. Topics include the role of elections in a representative democracy, the history of campaigns and elections in the U.S., the role of parties and interest groups, the behavior of voters, and the activities and strategies of candidates for office, the financing of campaigns, and the role of the media. 3 hours seminar. (007691)
POLS 631	Research Methods	3.0	FS
Rigorous investigation of methodological techniques, with intensive readings, papers, and oral presentations as appropriate. Applications of research methods to policy problems and to problems in Political Science will be stressed. 3 hours seminar. (007692)
POLS 632	Seminar in Political Theory	3.0	INQ
Rigorous investigation of theoretical techniques, with intensive readings, papers, and oral presentations as appropriate. Applications of theoretical issues to policy problems and to problems in Political Science will be stressed. 3 hours seminar. (007693)
POLS 641	Seminar in International Relations	3.0	INQ
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of research usually required. 3 hours seminar. (015551)
POLS 651	Seminar in Judicial Politics	3.0	INQ
Intensive reading and research on topics related to a scholarly examination of the American judiciary. Topics may include judicial appointments, theories of judicial decision making, judicial impact and social change, the relationship between courts and public opinion, and judicial politics in state courts. 3 hours seminar. (015550)
POLS 652	Legal and Ethical Issues in Health and Human Services	3.0	INQ
A seminar providing an integrative analysis of ethical and legal forces in the environment of health and human services as they relate to health and human services organizations' behavior and management decision making. 3 hours seminar. (004471)
POLS 653	Environmental Policy and the Law	3.0	INQ
Development and implementation of environmental policies by the various levels of government within the U.S. federal system, with a particular focus on the legal context of environmental policy making. 3 hours seminar. (007694)
POLS 659	Collaborative Community Management	3.0	INQ
With increasing frequency, many government programs have moved beyond privatizing to encouraging, or even mandating, collaboration between governmental and nongovernmental organizations in resolving community problems. As an introduction to the theory and practice of collaborative management, this course provides students an opportunity to examine case studies of successful practices of collaboration as well as to critique strategies and methods used in fostering collaborative management. It also provides an opportunity for students to practice collaboration both in the classroom, and in the community through a community project. 3 hours seminar. (020919)
POLS 660A	Public Management	3.0	FA
This course will review, analyze, and test strategies of public management. Emphasis will be on areas of decision-making, planning, development, budgeting, and collective bargaining. Purpose is to familiarize students with the various approaches to public sector problem-solving and decision-making, primarily by using the case study format. 3 hours seminar. (007698)
POLS 660B	Public Personnel Administration	3.0	SP
A survey of the processes of recruiting and managing personnel in the public service. The philosophy of public personnel administration, organization for personnel administration, history, and evolution of the career system, comparative modern structures, and general processes of personnel. Both traditional and behavioral literature. 3 hours seminar. (007699)
POLS 660C	Public Budgeting and Finances	3.0	SP
Survey of budgeting problems, issues, and applications of theories, research, and approaches toward use of cost-benefit analysis in the public sector. Activities are focused on surveying the literature and researching public programs using Program Planning and Budgeting Systems and cost-benefit analysis. 3 hours seminar. (007700)
POLS 661	Seminar in Public Administration	3.0	SP
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science and community services. Written and oral presentation of research usually required. Topics vary, dependent upon seminar leader. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (007701)
POLS 662	Organizational Theory in the Public Sector	3.0	FA
Conceptual examination of the theory and behavior of large and small bureaucracies. 3 hours seminar. (007702)
POLS 664	Public Policy in Health and Human Services	3.0	INQ
A graduate seminar which focuses on initiation, formulation, implementation, and evaluation of Health and Human Services policies. An exploration of policy development, policy analysis approaches, new policy directions. This course will focus on how to develop a policy issue paper, including how to identify values, develop alternatives, and make policy recommendations. Health and Human Services policy will be explored at the national, state, and local levels, including the public, private, non-profit, and profit-making sectors. Policy of other nations will be examined for their implications for American Health and Human Services policy. 3 hours seminar. (007703)
POLS 665	Issues in Global Public Health	3.0	INQ
An examination of the health care industry in relation to health financing, insurance, grants, contracting, and resource allocation as they relate to management decision making in health and human service organizations. 3 hours seminar. (004475)
POLS 666	Mental Health Policy and Administration	3.0	INQ
Relationship of mental and physical health policy in the U.S. and selected other countries. Considers elements essential to administration of community mental health programs and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). EAP efforts at helping employees deal with personal problems that affect job performance are considered. History, theory, legal and policy issues related to the above are considered. Focuses on mental health administrative issues and mental health personnel issues. 3 hours seminar. (007704)
POLS 667	Administration and Planning	3.0	INQ
Comprehensive consideration of political, social, and administrative issues related to the rural and town planning process. 3 hours seminar. (007707)
POLS 668	Public Policy Formation	3.0	INQ
This course examines complex information embedded in the theory and practice of public policy formation and analysis at the professional level. The course includes an examination of the approaches, methods, and concepts used in public policy analysis. Further the course examines the statutory, social, and political factors influencing policy development in a wide range of substantive policy areas including but not limited to the environment, business, labor, health, and criminal justice. A policy evaluation paper and oral presentation are required. 3 hours seminar. (007708)
POLS 669	Public and Non-Profit Program Evaluation	3.0	INQ
This course applies specific techniques for evaluating both program operations and the outcome of program activities. It applies the research methodologies and techniques employed for policy and program assessment including use of social indicators, quantitative and qualitative methods, and quasi-experimental designs used in applied policy and program research. Finally, students learn about writing grant proposals and managing contracts. 3 hours seminar. (007709)
POLS 671	Topics in American Politics	3.0	INQ
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to American national government. Written and oral presentation of research usually required. 3 hours seminar. (007710)
POLS 672	The U.S. Presidency	3.0	INQ
This course explores the office of the chief executive through several academic lenses. In addition to an analysis of the constitutional debates regarding this office, presidential power, the modern presidency, presidential war powers, presidential personality and character, presidential decision making, and presidential selection are all possible topics for exploration through reading and research. 3 hours seminar. (007711)
POLS 673	The U.S. Congress	3.0	INQ
Intensive readings and research on topics related to Congress include the constitutional context and debates over the role of Congress, congressional elections, the nature of Congress as an institution, the behavior of its members, and the role Congress plays in shaping public policy. 3 hours seminar. (007712)
POLS 680A	Research Plan/Culminating Practicum	1.0	FS
In this course, students develop a research plan with their graduate committee the semester prior to registering for the culminating professional policy analysis paper course, POLS 680B. 3 hours supervision. Credit/no credit grading. (021800)
POLS 680B	Culminating Practicum	3.0	FS
Prerequisite: POLS 680A. This is a culminating activity whereby students demonstrate competence acquired in the MPA program. Each student will complete a professional policy analysis paper that requires the application of both theory and methods. This professional paper will be presented at the end of the course. Prior to taking this course, a majority of the core graduate seminars must be completed. 9 hours supervision. Formerly POLS 680. (007713)
POLS 683	Practicum in Teaching Political Science	1.0 -3.0	FS
Provides a forum for the exploration and analysis of effective teaching techniques in political science. This course prepares students to become graduate teaching assistants or community college instructors. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units. (007714)
POLS 689	Intern/Fieldwork Public Admin	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. Internship and directed field work in selected public and quasi-public agencies. 3 hours supervision. Credit/no credit grading. (007715)
POLS 689P	MPA Professional Internship	3.0	FS
Prerequisite: Faculty permission. Internship and directed field work in selected public and quasi-public agencies. Particularly encouraged for students who lack a significant professional work background. 300 hours of service required. 9 hours supervision. Credit/no credit grading. (021069)
POLS 697	Independent Study	1.0 -6.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is a graduate-level independent study offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Open to all MA and MPA candidates. Adequate preparation as determined by the Department of Political Science. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (007730)
POLS 699T	Master's Thesis	1.0 -3.0	FS
This course is offered for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 3.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (007734)