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Political Science
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Dean: Gayle E. Hutchinson
Department of Political Science
Butte Hall 741
530-898-5301
530-898-6910 Fax
e-mail:
politicalscience@csuchico.edu
http://www.csuchico.edu/pols/
Chair: Charles C. Turner
Vice Chair: Margaret E. Leigey
Undergraduate Advisors:
Jim Jacob (International Relations)
Diane Schmidt (Public Administration)
Lori Beth Way (Criminal Justice)
Lori Weber (General Political Science)
Graduate Coordinators:
Donna R. Kemp (MPA)
Program
Minor in Alternative Dispute Resolution
Minor in International Relations
Minor in Public Administration
Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Political Science Course Offerings
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.
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. This is an approved General Education course.
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in POLS 391E is highly recommended.
The political dynamics of selected third world nations. 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 third world societies. This is an approved
General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course.
This course is an introduction to the social sciences that uses power as a unifying theme. The course will look at issues
in political behavior, the role of political and economic institutions, and how behavior and institutions affect politics,
economics, and public policy. Students will apply the basic tools of social science to look at historical examples of issues
in social science, with a focus on contemporary applications. Students will also work in a computer lab that introduces them
to the power of information and methods of finding and using social science data on the Internet.
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 will focus 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 will be studied to illustrate the politics of distributing "justice" by means of the courts. This is an approved
General Education course.
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.)
Please see the description above. This course is for students in the Honors in General Education Program.
This course provides an opportunity for students to explore topics from their American government class in more detail. The
course includes discussion of problems and assignments, as well as work on student speaking, study, and testing skills. Credit/no
credit grading only.
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.
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.
This course is also offered as JOUR 244. Formerly POLS 144.
The history and philosophy of criminal justice in America; recapitulation of the system; 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.
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.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 250 or faculty permission.
Examines current and developing programs and issues in the field of criminal justice.
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. Because this is an upper-division course, students
are required to complete additional advanced assignments beyond those required in POLS 101. Students cannot receive credit
for both POLS 101 and POLS 301. This is an approved General Education course.
The political dynamics of selected third world nations. 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 third world societies. Because this is an
upper-division course, students are required to complete additional advanced assignments beyond those required in POLS 102.
Students cannot receive credit for both POLS 102 and POLS 302. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved
Global Cultures course.
Prerequisites: POLS 250 or concurrent enrollment
This course is a seminar on selected topics in criminal justice. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of
6.0 units.
The purpose of this course is to examine the political dynamics and impact of regional and intra-regional population and economic
shifts in the United States. The focus will be on the changing nature of political power and inequalities linked to these
population and economic changes. Among the topics to be covered are Politics in an Advanced Industrial Society; Emerging Political
Institutions; The Politics of Growth and Decline; The Development of a National Growth Policy; Inequality and Political Power;
The Role of the State in Addressing Political, Economic, and Local Inequalities. Specific policy areas will be examined.
The course directs students to a broader and deeper awareness of their abilities, strengths, and skills. Then this expanded
awareness is related to appropriate majors, minors, academic specialties, campus resources, and career relevant alternatives.
Credit/no credit grading only.
An interdisciplinary survey of the politics of Central America and the Caribbean Basin. This is an approved General Education
course. This is an approved Global Cultures course. This course is also offered as LAST 321.
Analysis of the roles of women in politics; volunteer, candidate, elected official. Considers politics of the women's movement
and women's issues. This is an approved General Education course. This course is also offered as WMST 324.
Origin and development in the nineteenth century of dialectical and historical materialism, emphasizing the implications of
Marxist philosophy for an understanding of nature, knowledge, revolution; doctrinal evolution from Marx to Mao. This course
is also offered as PHIL 325.
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. This is an approved
US Diversity course. This course is also offered as MCGS 327.
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher.
An introduction to the discipline of political science, with emphasis on the major controversy of substance and method therein.
Should be taken at the beginning of the junior year. This is a writing proficiency, WP, course; a grade of C- or better certifies
writing proficiency for majors.
This course covers use of computers and the Internet in political science research. 2.0 hours activity. Credit/no credit grading
only.
Prerequisites: POLS 442.
Introduction to the United Nations, its procedures and current issues on its agenda to prepare delegates to participate in
the National Model United Nations Conference held in New York City during the spring recess. 2.0 hours activity. You may take
this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Prerequisites: POLS 340, POLS 442.
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
recess. Either attendance at the New York City conference or a 15-page research paper on a U.N. agenda topic is required.
You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Concepts in international politics, with emphasis on the analysis of contemporary global issues. Recommended for secondary
teachers. This is an approved General Education course.
Prerequisites: POLS 341.
Introduction to methods, objectives, and techniques of scientific study of international politics. Analysis of selected examples
of behavioral research in international politics. Examples will normally include cross-cultural research, comparative elites,
global and regional political change, events data analysis, war and peace studies.
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. This is an approved General Education course.
Analysis of the international relations of the Pacific Basin area, with emphasis on the period since 1975. This course is
also offered as INST 446D.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.)
Because this is an upper-division course, students are required to complete additional advanced assignments beyond those required
in POLS 155. Students cannot receive credit for both POLS 155 and POLS 355.
This course is intended for students interested in attending law school. This course covers the law school application process
and timeline, as well as the format of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and tips and techniques for performing well on
the LSAT. Students take a practice LSAT exam as part of the course. Credit/no credit grading only.
2.0 hours activity. Credit/no credit grading only.
2.0 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Weekly viewing of a political film, with lecture-discussion session led by a faculty member who has a special interest in
the subject matter of the film.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
Individual consultation with faculty in working on special projects, reading lists, or areas of deficiency. Credit/no credit
grading only.
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.
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. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
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. This course
is also offered as MCGS 401.
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.
Note: The highlighted is different from what appears in the printed catalog. What is displayed is current and correct.
Discussions relating to the history and development of local government. The present structure of local government in the
United States and selected foreign countries. Current problems and changing functions affecting local governments.
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.
Prerequisites: HCSV 131.
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. This course is also offered as HCSV 435.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
This course is a seminar on selected topics in US, state, and local politics. You may take this course more than once for
a maximum of 6.0 units.
This course is a seminar on selected topics in legal studies. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0
units.
Examination of the international political economy and Third World development. Specific focus is on the crisis of the world
capitalist system and the international and national attempts to restructure levels of that system. The question of development
is discussed from various ideological perspectives, along with the political-economic implications of industrialization and
the debt crisis in the Third World. Case studies on the political economy of development are offered, Mexico and South Korea,
for example.
Study of selected Middle East governments and political processes. Politics analyzed from the late Ottoman period to the contemporary
era. Special emphasis given to post-World War II developments, including nationalism, industrialization, cultural, and religious
traditions.
Comparative analysis of selected black African countries. Varying patterns of traditional culture, colonialism, and independence
movements will be presented. Other themes to be stressed include methods of disengagement from neo-imperialistic controls
since independence.
A study of the similarities and differences of the Latin American republics, concentrating on structures of government, historical
traditions, political parties, and the role of the military. After a general introduction to these topics and the area, the
class will emphasize an in-depth study of selected Latin American nations.
An examination of the politics of Asia. Emphasis may vary among East, South-East, and South Asia. The study of the response
of Asian political systems to the dual challenges of modernization and Western pressure will be combined with an analysis
of contemporary political institutions and events.
This course will provide a well-rounded understanding of the foundations of contemporary Russian and East European political
institutions and politics. This entails analysis of the historical roles of nationalism, communist values, and Soviet behavior
as they relate to the development of Russia and the new states of the former Soviet Union. Special emphasis will be given
to questions of nation-building, legitimacy, and political leadership.
A study of selected governments of Western Europe, with emphasis as well on regional coordination (the Common Market and related
institutions) in the post-World War II period.
A survey of the government and politics of Canada. Focus will be on the growth and function of Canadian parliamentary democracy,
the development of provincial power, and the dynamics of public policy-making in the Canadian administrative and legislative
systems.
Analysis of the international political economy and industrial- post-industrial societies. Specific focus on the internationalization
of capitalism and major institutions of the international political economy in the post-Cold War era; the competing models
of North American, European, and Asian political economies; trade, investment and security issues among industrial nations;
and relationship of industrial nations' policy to the political economy of the developing world.
This course will examine the Israeli political system from its early development to the present. The class will focus on the
Zionist ideology of the founders and the transformation of that ideology during the state-building period. Israeli political
institutions will be examined along with historical and contemporary political conflicts, the vagaries of the peace process,
and Israeli-American relations. This course is also offered as MJIS 418.
Readings and research in comparative government.
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.
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher.
This investigation of methods and theory in political science is directed to individual research interests and problem development
for the honors thesis. This is a writing proficiency, WP, course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for
majors.
A study of the learning of political attitudes; the role of the family, school, peer group, and others in the political socialization
process; the process of accommodation or non-accommodation to the value patterns of society and ultimate political behavior.
Evolution of American political parties; issues dividing the electorate; organization of parties; nominations, campaigns,
elections, voting behavior; the role of money in the party process; party responsibility; evaluation and reform of parties;
some reference to foreign parties. Considers parties as some of the major value maximizers among people.
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors only.
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. This course is also offered as CMST 424, and JOUR 424.
Prerequisites: SOCI 310 or SWRK 330; SOCI 315 or other statistics course by permission of instructor. CMST majors: COM 202. POLS majors: POLS 421.
A practical, integrative course in which a survey research project will be conducted.
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. This course is also offered as WMST 426.
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.
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors only.
An examination of the relationships of politics and the mass media. Includes a project involving media analysis and campaigns
or public policy decisions. This course is also offered as JOUR 428, and CMST 428.
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.
Considers tensions between the democratic and republican claims in formative periods: Puritan, Revolutionary, Constitution,
Jacksonian, and Civil War. Addresses modern implications. Uses primary sources and novels.
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.
The classical roots of western political philosophy and their relationship to contemporary political theory. This course is
also offered as PHIL 434.
The philosophical framework of political and social change, with emphasis on the French Revolution and on the emergence of
liberal ideology as a basis of contemporary radical and liberal political philosophy. This course is also offered as PHIL
436.
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. This course is also offered as PHIL 437.
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. This course is also offered as PHIL 438.
This seminar covers selected topics in political theory and methodology. You may take this course more than once for a maximum
of 6.0 units.
Prerequisites: POLS 341, ENGL 130 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher.
Analysis of the dynamics of international politics, with emphasis on the following theories and concepts: images, decision-making,
power, the state, nationalism, balance of power, international system, war, alliances, and imperialism. International Relations
majors: This is a writing proficiency, WP, course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for majors.
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher, POLS 341.
This investigation of method and theory in political science is directed to individual research interests and problem development
for the honors thesis. This is a writing proficiency, WP, course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for
majors.
Analysis of the development and activities of various types of international organizations, including the United Nations,
multinational corporations, OPEC, the Common Market, the IMF, the World Bank, and such non-governmental organizations as Amnesty
International and Greenpeace.
Analysis of the development of international law, the role of international law on international relations, legal problems
of world order, and contemporary international legal issues. Case analysis and critical writing required.
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.
Analysis of the foreign policies of Sub-Saharan nations, including Neocolonialism, Pan-Africanism, regionalism, development,
apartheid, African Liberation Movements, and China in Africa.
Patterns of inter-American relations will be explored, with special attention to the effects of dependency on the American
states and their reactions to it. Collaboration, avoidance, and resistance by Latin Americans will be examined within the
context of the use of diplomacy and of military, political, and economic force by differing groups on both sides.
The foreign policies of the states of Asia will be analyzed; special attention will be given to China and U.S. policies in
Asia. This course is also offered as INST 446D.
Analysis of the historic, ideological, and behavioral values of Russian foreign policy. Special attention is given to the
domestic context of foreign policy-making and the regional issues facing Russia in the contemporary international system.
Emphasis will be on the post-Soviet period.
Analyzes the international relations of Western European nations and international institutions, especially the Common Market.
Emphasizes Western Europe as a part of the regional and world dynamics.
An introductory course which develops an understanding of international relations concepts, Canada's place in the international
system, external factors affecting Canadian foreign policy, the Canadian decision-making structures and processes, as well
as the issues, patterns, and relationships associated with recent Canadian foreign affairs.
Analyzes the Vietnam War as a consequence of foreign policy. Emphasizes the structures, processes, and dynamics of policy
design, implementation, and management, especially by the United States.
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. Selection choice for the Option in Political Affairs.
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.
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. This course is also offered as MCGS
451B.
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.
The study of law from the political, sociological, and behavioral perspectives examining recent and contemporary approaches
to the legal process. Other questions about areas of study include: What, if any, are the boundaries of the legal process?
To what extent should the legal process be a part of our everyday lives? To what extent is the law political?
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 454
The study of the field of paralegalism and the laws that the paralegal will be dealing with. Deals both with substantive law
and the methods and role of the paralegal case study method used.
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.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
This course in Indian/Federal law examines 200 years of legal relationships of tribes with the Federal government, state government,
and with tribal members. It has its origins in constitutional law, and is the only body of law directly relating to a single
group or minority in this country. We will examine and analyze the practical application of these laws as they apply to the
legal rights of tribes and the states in which the tribes reside. This course is also offered as AIST 457.
The objective of this course is to introduce students to the field of court administration. The course will survey the various
topics relevant in court administration as well as explore court administration as an occupation.
This course is a seminar on selected topics in public law. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Prerequisites: POLS 250.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 250.
This course will serve as a capstone for majors and will seek to tie together the various threads of the major while at the
same time investigating public policy issues relating to criminal justice. It will examine the behavioral and policy evaluative
literature relating to CJ policy in the United States and will strengthen the evaluative techniques of the students.
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
An examination of basic concepts and practices found in the collective bargaining relationship. Special focus on the public
sector in California.
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.
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.
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.
This course provides comparisons of the administrative systems of Canada, the United States, and selected additional countries.
It addresses the relationship of these systems to the political authority of the state. The course will identify four or five
basic public policy issues and compare the ways in which Canada, the United States, and others attempt to resolve or manage
them. These may include health care, welfare, education and workforce readiness, and intergovernmental relations.
Study of the role of administrative law in American government. Scope and implications of discretionary decision-making.
The machinery of justice in theory and practice; the significance of the rule of law and its exceptions in the actual administration
of justice.
This course is intended to introduce students to the individual and group processes which occur in organizations. Such processes
include leadership, communications, cooperation and conflict, individual and group motivation, group effectiveness, decision-making
and problem-solving, moral and ethical behaviors, creativity, and organizational change. 2.0 hours lecture, 2.0 hours activity.
Introduction to theory and practice of planning. Planning as a function of government; planning models; the politics of planning;
citizen participation; planning administration; zoning and other land-use plan implementation techniques.
Review and analysis of the present and changing nature of planning and land-use control law, particularly as the law is applied
in California.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
A discussion course which explores a variety of ethical decision-making procedures via a case-study approach in order to help
students develop critical decision-making skills useful in dealing with ethical issues likely to confront the public manager.
This course is also offered as PHIL 469.
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.
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.
A comparative analysis of the executive component of government. Emphasis on the national executive, selected state executives,
and selected executives in other nations.
Analysis of the structure, processes, and behavior in legislative bodies. Emphasis on a comparison of selected legislative
bodies.
This course investigates the epistemology, history, structures, functions, and issues of United States' national strategic
intelligence.
This course is a seminar on selected topics in American national government. You may take this course more than once for a
maximum of 6.0 units.
Students in this course publish Studium: The California State University, Chico Student Journal of Politics. Students select,
evaluate, and edit scholarly works on politics. There is significant work outside the classroom environment, including developing
skills in political science research and writing, and interdisciplinary collaboration for graphics, editing, formatting, and
printing. Students also collaborate with student authors and with those producing student journals at other universities.
You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
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. This course is also offered as SWRK
481.
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.
Public Administration majors must take POLS 489A for at least 2 units. You may take this course more than once for a maximum
of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
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 only.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
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 only.
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 only.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
See description below. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
POLS 489K and POLS 489L: Field work in law in various projects such as bail service, welfare rights, legal aid, penal law,
consumer law, environmental law, housing law, etc. Work supervised by faculty and/or cooperating legal organizations. You
may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: 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, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate, the Paralegal Certificate, or the minor in
Alternative Dispute Resolution. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units.
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 only.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
Participation in and creation of games and simulations relevant to an understanding of the political process. Emphasis will
be on the analysis of political action in the area of public administration. 2.0 hours activity.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
Participation in and creation of games and simulations relevant to an understanding of the political process. Emphasis will
be on the analysis of political action in the area of public personnel. 2.0 hours activity.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
Participation in and creation of games and simulations relevant to an understanding of the political process. Emphasis will
be on the analysis of political action in the area of public finance. 2.0 hours activity.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
Participation in and creation of games and simulations relevant to an understanding of the political process. Emphasis will
be on the analysis of political action in the area of international relations. 2.0 hours activity. Credit/no credit grading
only.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
Participation in mock trials and other law activities. Oral argument, legal research, and brief-writing. 4.0 hours activity.
Credit/no credit grading only.
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. 6.0 hours activity. Credit/no credit grading only.
Participation in and creation of simulations relevant to an understanding of international relations. 4.0 hours activity.
Credit/no credit grading only.
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, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate, or the Alternative Dispute Resolution
minor. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 421H and faculty permission.
Independent study resulting in a piece of scholarly or creative work involving substantial research to be completed and publicly
presented. The course must be taken during the second semester of your senior year, subsequent to successful completion of
POLS 421H. This course is not available to graduate students.
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.
Intensive reading and research on topics related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of
research usually required.
This course will be a first-semester course that engages students in the theories, literature, and issues that are central
in the study of public administration. 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's in Public
Administration degree program.
A review of classical and contemporary research in political communication; presentation and discussion of current issues
in political communication. This course is also offered as CMST 604.
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of
research usually required.
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of
research usually required.
Intensive readings and research on topics related to political parties, including the various theoretical approaches to the
study of political parties in the United States, the history of parties, the contemporary nature and activities of U.S. parties,
and the concept of partisanship. Parties in the U.S. are compared to those in other democracies as well.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Written and oral presentation of
research usually required.
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to public law. Written and oral presentation of research usually required.
You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
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. This course is also offered
as HCSV 652.
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.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 602; POLS 662 is recommended.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 602.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 602; POLS 631 is recommended.
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.
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. You may take this course more
than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Conceptual examination of the theory and behavior of large and small bureaucracies.
Survey of problems, issues, and applications of management theory to health and human service organizations. Emphasis will
be on administrative problem-solving. This course is also offered as HCSV 663.
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.
Prerequisites: POLS 660C, POLS 664.
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. This course is also offered as HCSV
665.
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.
Comprehensive consideration of political, social, and administrative issues related to the rural and town planning process.
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to this sub-field of political science. Topics vary and may include an overview
of various substantive policy areas or may focus on a specific policy area, such as energy, housing, education, criminal justice,
etc. This course may be taken twice for credit, depending on the topic. See the department for specific information. You may
take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Prerequisites: POLS 600 and POLS 631 or equivalents are highly recommended.
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.
Intensive reading and research on a topic related to American national government. Written and oral presentation of research
usually required.
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.
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.
This course is a practicum which demonstrates 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. This is the final course in the MPA and must be completed by all students except those completing
a thesis. Prior to taking this course, all seven core graduate seminars must be completed. It is strongly recommended that
students do not enroll in other courses while taking this course.
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. You may take this course more than once
for a maximum of 9.0 units.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
Internship and directed field work in selected public and quasi-public agencies. Credit/no credit grading only.
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.
You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
This course is offered for 1.0 to 6.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. You
may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.