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State and Local Government (PSCI 1102)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
3
Description:
This course is an introduction to state and local government with an emphasis on Minnesota and the Twin Cities. The setting and structures of state and local government (the Legislature, Governor, Courts, County, and city governments) will be examined. Involvement in the political process and application of the political process to an urban problem will be discussed.
Topical Outline:
1. Political culture, socialization and ideology
2. Theories of power
3. Constitutions, federalism and the power of states and localities
4. Executive, legislative, and judicial branches in state and local governments
5. Interest groups, political parties, political participation, and elections
6. Current issues in state and local government (emphasis on Minnesota)
Learning Outcomes:
1. Apply key theories of power to political issues and processes
2. Identify key state and local government institutions and offices and their functions
3. Apply and evaluate theories of political culture and political socialization
4. Analyze ideological dimensions of state and local issues
5. Research state and local legislation, policies, and representatives
6. Create a power analysis and action plan related to a current issue in state and local politics
Prerequisites:
Placement into
READ 0200 or
ESOL 0052 or completion of
READ 0100 or
ESOL 0042
MnTC: