PSC 1010-3 American National Government (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on the reading and writing preassessment placement tests

This course explores the American political process with emphasis on the federal government: how it is organized, formal and informal sources of power and influence, political attitudes and behavior of American citizens, civil rights, constitutional evolution, factors of change and stability. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences)

PSC 1020-3 Political Systems and Ideas (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: minimum performance standard scores on the reading and writing preassessment placement tests

The course provides ways of looking at political society, the often unsettling realities of politics, and political science as a discipline; searches for the means of understanding, acting, and living in an increasingly complex and interdependent world of decision making and problem solving; and emphasizes the basic ideas, structures and issues of modern political systems. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences)

PSC 2020-3 Conducting Political Analysis (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

This course inquires into research methods and deals with how we organize knowledge in the study of politics. It also emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to political analysis by concentrating on philosophy of science, social science methodology and historiography.

PSC 2030-3 Politics in the Media (3 + 0)

This course is an analysis of current political issues as portrayed in the daily and weekly press and broadcast media. It is designed to provide students with the background and perspective needed for an informed understanding of the often complex and confusing issues confronting the political system.

PSC 2100-3 Political Socialization (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: satisfaction of Level I General Studies requirement

This course examines the set of social processes by which populations are trained to passivity, obedience, acquiescence and loyalty, in short, how citizens are socialized to become political beings. We shall explore the field of political socialization and emphasize the close relationships between processes that "engrave laws in the hearts of citizens" and the larger social order. (General Studies-Level II, Social Science)

PSC 2200-3

(AAS 2200) Politics and Black People (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: satisfaction of Level I Mathematics requirement, and either ENG 1010 or the Level I Communication course requirement

Black politics is examined as a vehicle and potential in decision making for positive change for black people in this country. The realities and the challenges, both historical and current, are emphasized. Credit will be granted for only one prefix: PSC or AAS. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences; Multicultural) 

PSC 3000-3 American State and Local Government (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or permission of instructor

The organization, powers, functions, and practical workings of state, county, town and city governments of the United States. Special attention is given to federal-state relations and to the Colorado state government and constitution.

PSC 3020-3 Introduction to Public Administration (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

An introduction to public management as a field of study and professional practice. Topics include the political environment of public administration, organization theory, decision-making, budgetary processes, intergovernmental relations, and ethics and professionalism in public service.

PSC 3030-3 Introduction to International Relations (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

Examination of the modern nation-state in its relations with others: diplomacy, nationalism, power and influence, sources of conflict and cooperation. Reviews theoretical attempts to understand international behavior.

PSC 3050-3 Political Theory (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: satisfaction of Level I General Studies course requirements

Examination of Western political ideas and ideals from Plato through Marx: the hopes and fears, questions and responses, dreams and realities about the state, humanity, justice and politics. An opportunity to relate historical political thinking to modern problems. (General Studies-Level II, Arts and Letters)

PSC 3090-3 Current Topics in Political Science (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

An in-depth study of an important topic of political science. Topics vary and the course may be repeated for credit as the topics change.

PSC 3100-3 American Political Parties and Elections and Voting Behavior (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

The nature and functions of parties in the U.S. political system: their membership, beliefs and internal organization. Examines campaign methods and financing, and analyzes the American voter and non-voter, based on the latest research findings.

PSC 3120-3 American Constitutional Law (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 and satisfaction of Level I General Studies requirement

This course examines how the basic principles and doctrines of the Constitution have been interpreted, altered and applied in response to the ever-changing social, economic and political conditions in the United States. (General Studies-Level II, Social Science)

PSC 3130-3 The American Presidency (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

The powers and functions of the presidency as the office has changed and evolved, with emphasis on recent experience. Explores styles of presidential leadership, relations with Congress, the bureaucracy, the media, the group influence and constituent relations. Examines internal organization, traditions, power structure and reform.

PSC 3140-3 The American Congress and Legislative Process (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

The powers and functions of the legislative branch of government; relations with the executive branch; interest group influence; constituent relations. Examines internal organization, traditions, power structure and reform.

PSC 3160-1-3 Readings in Political Science and Public Administration (1-3 + 0)

This course provides the opportunity for the student to explore important writings in a selected subject area of political science. A self-paced course under the guidance of the instructor. Topics vary and the course may be repeated for credit.

PSC 3200-3

(NAS 3200) Native American Politics (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: NAS 1000 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor, and completion of all Level I General Studies course requirements

The focus of this course is to examine Native Americans as political beings. Important questions and strategies for understanding the rise and expansion of Native politicization will be identified. In general, the students will be able to explain why, how and when movements that demand change emerge. By comparing and contrasting the Native American experience with other powerless groups in society, the students should be able to trace these historical and political factors that led to a change in the movement of insurgency and analyze the specific actions by insurgents that inevitably resulted in the failure or success of those specific actions. (General Studies-Level II, Social Sciences; Multicultural) 

PSC 3220-3 Public Policy (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

An analysis of the ongoing development of government policy, covering the main stages of the policy process: agenda building, formulation, authorization, implementation and evaluation.

PSC 3230-3 Environmental Politics (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: PSC 1010, PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

The class will explore the political and administrative issues in the field of environmental politics. Environmental areas to be reviewed will include environmental theory, organizations, political behavior, assessment, law and decision-making.

PSC 3240-3 Intergovernmental Relations (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or permission of instructor

Analysis of the functioning of the American federal system and the changing forms of local/state/federal relationships. Surveys recent efforts to develop theories relating to the administrative processes of intergovernmental relations.

PSC 3260-3 Politics of Budgeting (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 3020 or permission of instructor

Budget systems analyzed with an evaluation of administrative techniques of budget control. The legal, social and political aspects of governmental budgets and the budgetary process.

PSC 3280-3 Public Personnel Administration (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 3020 or permission of instructor

The analysis of managing, motivating and developing people in public organizations. Surveys the main elements of personnel administration such as selection, evaluation, promotion, training, productivity and job classification.

PSC 3300-3

(GEG 3300, NAS 3300) Land Use, Culture and Conflict (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEG 1400 or NAS 1000 or PSC 1010 and junior standing

This course is designed to introduce students to theories, approaches and controversies concerning use of land and resources on Indian Reservations. Reading and discussion will be directed toward questions related to differing views on land use and resources, how modernization impacts traditional settings, as well as treaties and governmental policies that govern Indian land. Case studies which illustrate current conflict/resolution issues between Native Americans and other actors such as federal, state and local governments will be examined. Credit will be granted for only one prefix. (General Studies - Level II, Social Science; Multicultural)

PSC 3310-3 American Foreign and Military Policy (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or permission of instructor

The main trends of U.S. foreign and military policy from the end of World War II to the present, with an exploration of the motives and perceptions behind recent policies and actions. Studies the policymaking process and the relationship between foreign policy and domestic policies.

PSC 3320-3 International Law (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 3030 or permission of instructor

Past and present efforts of nations to regulate their relations and resolve conflicts through the use of existing legal doctrine, or the development of new law in response to new problems, such as the uses of outer space and ocean resources.

PSC 3330-3 International Organizations (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 3030 or permission of instructor

The theory and practice of international organizations, with emphasis on the United Nations. Past and present attempts of nations to solve problems or achieve security by means of regional and global organizations, such as the Common Market and the World Bank.

PSC 3400-3

(AAS 3400) Contemporary Africa (3 + 0)

This course focuses on the political, social and economic realities of postindependence Africa. Africa's relations with the outside world and the question of South Africa are also examined in this course. Credit will be granted for only one prefix: PSC or AAS.

PSC 3520-3 American Political Thought (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or permission of instructor

Is there an American political philosophy? A study of some of the significant individuals and ideas that have shaped and are shaping political thinking in America.

PSC 3600-3 Comparative Politics Area Studies (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or PSC 1020 or permission of instructor

A thorough examination of the political system or systems of a selected foreign nation or geographical region, such as the Middle East, Western Europe, or Latin America. Subject matter varies and the course may be repeated for credit.

PSC 3630-3 Latin American Politics (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: PSC 1010 or 1020 and satisfaction of Level I General Studies requirement

This course will provide the student with the core concepts used within the social science literature in Latin American countries; will broaden intellectual horizons beyond United States borders to question ethnocentrism regarding what is means to be developed; and examine the causes, processes and outcomes of revolution and social conflict. (General Studies-Level II, Social Science)

PSC 3910-3

(AAS 3910) African Politics and Government (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: AAS 1130, AAS 2300, or permission of instructor

This course will survey present-day political systems in Africa and examine factors, internal and external, that have contributed to their emergence. Credit will be granted for only one prefix:PSC or AAS.

PSC 4020-3 Special Studies (3 + 0)

Prerequisites: PSC 1010 and PSC 1020, and satisfaction of all Level I and II General Studies course requirements, and senior standing

This course is an in-depth examination of a selected subject within the overall field of political science. It provides students with an opportunity to delve into a subject that the instructor has a special interest or knowledge, but is not specifically covered in any of the existing courses. Course content will vary and may be variable depending on subject. The course may be repeated for credit as the subject matter changes. (Senior Experience)

PSC 4100-3-12 Legislative Internship (0 + 9-36)

Prerequisite: permission of Political Science Department

Students are placed in legislative (state or national) staff positions or in campaign offices according to their own interests and goals. The number of credits earned varies according to the amount of time on the job, e.g., a work load of 20 hours per week would earn six credits. Students must contact the Political Science Department before enrolling for internship.

PSC 4120-3-12 Government Agency Internship (0 + 9-36)

Prerequisite: permission of Political Science Department

Students are placed in government (state or national) agency internships according to their own interests and goals. The number of credits earned varies according to the amount of time on the job, e.g., a workload of 20 hours per week would earn six credits. Students must contact the Political Science Department before enrolling for internship.

PSC 4400-3

(AAS 4400) South African Politics (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: PSC 1010 or AAS 1020 or permission of instructor

An in-depth study of the South African political system, its historical development and contemporary operation. Credit will be granted for only one prefix: PSC or AAS.