PSCN-170 Introduction to American Government

Credits 3 / 3 Contact Hours
Pre-requisite: Placement into ACRD 080.
This course is an introduction to the function and form of the US government and the contemporary political life in the US. Topics include political ideologies the role of interest groups and the media federalism civil rights parties and elections and the responsibility of citizenship.

Course Outcomes
1. Evaluate the role of the media and interest groups in the political process 2. Outline the philosophical foundations for the United States political system 3. Asses voting behavior in the United States 4. Evaluate the federalist system 5. Explain the role of political ideologies in United States politics 6. Examine United States foreign policy and United States’ role in international relations 7. Analyze the structures and functions of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the government 8. Outline the basic elements of the Constitution 9. Asses the role of parties in United States politics 10. Characterize the unique electoral process in the United States 11. Compare the system in the United States to other democratic systems