Courses Offered

UWM Schedule of Classes

Courses Offered

Online Syllabi
UW-Milwaukee Undergraduate Catalog
UW-Milwaukee Graduate School Bulletin

Course Descriptions: Spring 2009 Courses; Fall 2008 Courses

Course Descriptions, Spring 2009

Prior to each new semester, the Political Science Department distributes a list of course descriptions providing information about the courses that its faculty members will be teaching. These descriptions are more extensive and should be of real help to students as they go about choosing the courses they will be taking.

Pol Sci 103, Introduction to Political Science
-001, Jeff Guse, T 4:30-7:10 pm
-402, Justin Clardie, MW 10:00-10:50
This course is designed to introduce students to the basic issues and concepts of politics and government in the United States and elsewhere. A major portion of the course is devoted to the study of political behavior in the forms of voting, public opinion, political parties and interest groups, and the main institutions of government as well.

Pol Sci 104, Introduction to American Government and Politics
-001, Carrie Cihasky, T 5:30-8:10 pm
-402, Kathleen Dolan, MW, 9:00-9:50
This course explores the fundamental questions about American government and politics. How does the political system work? Why does it work the ways it does? What are the consequences for ordinary citizens of the government functioning as it does? In seeking answers to these questions, we will explore the impact of the Constitution, public opinion, interest groups, political parties, and elections on decision-making by Congress, the President and the judiciary.

Pol Sci 105, State Politics
-001, Dennis Hatch, MW 12:30-1:45 pm
-402, John Bohte, TR 11:00-11:50
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of state and local political institutions. Emphasis will be placed on learning why political institutions and political cultures differ across the American states. We will also spend some time reviewing political institutions and political behavior in Wisconsin. Grades will be determined based on performance on 3 multiple chose/short answer exams, and attendance in discussion.

Pol Sci 106, Politics of the World's Nations
-401, Kristin Horowitz,TR 12:00-12:50 pm
This introductory course will compare and contrast the political and socio-economic systems of several states—industrialized and developing, democratic and authoritarian. We begin with a theoretical introduction and consider central issues such as political culture, institutions, political crises and discontinuity (i.e. revolution and dictatorship), and economic development. We then examine the following six case studies: two Western European democracies (Britain and France), a former communist regime (Russia), a reformed communist regime (China), a developing state (Mexico), and finally our own presidential democracy (the United States).

Pol Sci 175, Introduction to International Relations
-001, Jung-Yeop Woo, R 4:30-7:10 pm
-202, Uk Heo, ONLINE
This course examines some of the major theories and issues in the study of international relations for a better understanding of international political phenomena. These include approaches (traditional and scientific) and perspectives in international relations (idealism and realism), actors in international system (nation-state, sub-state and non-state actors, such as IGO and NGO), power and measurement of power, international conflict (Balance of Power, Alliance, Bargaining, cause of war, conflicts of interest, means of leverage), (general, immediate, and extended) deterrence, Post WWII (American) foreign policy, international political economy (Mercantilism, Liberalism, Marxism, International Trade and Monetary Regime, North-South Relations etc.), international law and organization, environment issues, the political economy of defense (arms race, arms control, the impact of defense spending on economic performance, conversion, etc.), international integration and international development. Due to the lack of the textbook which covers all these topics, lectures may be drawn from various sources.

Pol Sci 203, Introduction to Political Science Research
-001, Steve Redd, TR 9:30-10:45
This course serves as an introduction to the philosophy and practice of political science including the basic methods of research in political science. We will explore what is meant by "science" and the scientific method, and the various subfields of political science. We will also cover the various stages of the research process, as well as the basics of political analysis. By the end of the course, students should develop:

a knowledge and understanding of basic concepts in political science research;
the ability to offer sophisticated, critical analyses of empirical work;
competence in rudimentary statistical skills;
the skills to write quality review and research papers in upper division courses.

Pol Sci 215, Ethnicity, Religion, and Race in American Politics
-001, Don Pienkos, TR 12:30-1:45 pm
This course provides a clear overview of the social forces of race, religion, and ethnicity that help shape American politics, representative government, and public policy. Further, it looks at the attempts by organized groups to advance the political agendas of American, based on their racial group identifications, religious affiliations, and national or ethnic origins. This course meets UWM's general education and cultural diversity requirement. It also satisfies the American politics requirement of the Political Science Major at UW-Milwaukee.

Pol Sci 243, Public Administration
-001, Dennis Hatch, TR 11:00-12:15
This course is intended to provide students with an introduction to the field of Public Administration. During more so the semester, we will examine the politics and administration of public policies and the various institutions which are responsible for the implementation of those public polices, whether they are at federal, state or local level of government. We will also examine the roles and responsibilities of public sector administrators. We will look at the various theories and management techniques employed in the field of Public Administration and their impact on the decision-making process. During the later part of the semester, we will provide a more in-depth focus on local government administration, and the issues and policies which affect us directly.

Pol Sci 250, Law and Society
-001, Amy Wochos, MW 5:30-6:45 pm
This course involves an examination of the law and the operation of the legal system, as they relate to a variety of important contemporary social issues, including freedom of speech, abortion, state's rights, and affirmative action.

Pol Sci 255, Great Issues of Politics
-001, Ted Meckstroth, TR 2:00-3:15 pm
This course discusses major problems in political thought, such as war and peace, justice and power, liberty and authority, identity and alienation, and stability and change.

Pol Sci 268/468, Practicum in Mock Trial I & II
-001, Bradley Bloch, R 6:30-9:10

Pol Sci 281, Classics of Political Theory
-001, Kennan Ferguson, 4:30-7:10 pm

Pol Sci 297, Study Abroad
Re-takable with Topic change. Prereq: Acceptance for Study Abroad Program; Study Abroad requires acceptance in UWM - Sponsored program. Contact the L&S Center for International Education, Pearse 166, 229-5182.

Pol Sci 299, Ad Hoc
-001, Tom Holbrook, TBA
Prereq: Instructor Approval Required.

Pol Sci 302, Politics of Eastern Europe
-001, Don Pienkos, TR 9:30-10:45
In this course we study the character and development of politics in the region known as "Eastern Europe" and the countries of this region, most notably Poland, the Czech and Slovak Republics, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, the states of the former Yugoslavia, Albania, the Baltic states, Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova. We examine the impact of history, geography, nationalism, religion, foreign domination, fascism, and communism on these countries and their peoples, their achievement of full independence after 1989, their experiences in building democracy and market economies, their foreign policies, and their efforts to become integrated into the larger democratic world through entry into the NATO Alliance and the European Union.

Pol Sci 316, International Law
-001, Robert Beck, R, 9:30-10:45
This course has two objectives. First, it seeks to convey the essential rules of positive "public international law," situating those rules within international political and international normative contexts. Second, it strives to improve the critical and analytical skills of the student through a modified form of the "case method" employed in law schools. Among the course's substantive themes: the nature, scope, and status of international law; the subjects of international law; sovereignty over territory; international agreements; jurisdiction; and state responsibility.

Pol Sci 325, Latin American Politics
-001, Natasha Borges Sugiyama, MW 9:30-10:45
This course on Latin American politics will address the main currents in political and economic development that have swept the region. We will explore topics on political development (e.g. populism, revolutionary movements, military regimes, and democratic rule) as well as various strategies leaders have undertaken to promote economic development (e.g. import substitution industrialization and neoliberal economic reform). Note: This course meets one of the requirements for the UWM Certificate in Latin American Studies.

Pol Sci 334, German Politics and the New Europe
-001, Jennifer Smith, MW 12:30-1:45 pm
Since the end of the First World War in 1918, the territory of today's Federal Republic of Germany has experienced two democratic and two authoritarian regimes (one fascist, one communist), political division and reunification, and incorporation into a greater European community of states. This course will explore the development and consider the future of the German polity drawing on a mix of sources, including social science, history, literature, and film.

Pol Sci 368, Gender & Politics in Developing Nations
-001, Natasha Borges Sugiyama, MW 12:30-1:45 pm
This comparative politics seminar focuses on gender and politics in developing nations. The course will explore topics including: difference feminism, women's political mobilization, the politics of "motherhood," gender and armed conflict, transnational advocacy, and contemporary social policy debates (e.g. poverty, health and education). Students should expect an intensive seminar setting with reading-based discussions and student presentations. Grades will be based class participation, exams, a research paper and presentation on a contemporary issue on gender in development.

Pol Sci 370, International Conflict
-001, Kristin Horowitz, F 9:00-9:40
This course examines the conditions that make for war and peace in world politics. First, we examine historical patterns and trends in warfare. Then, we examine the causes of war, the outcomes and consequences of war, and solutions to help prevent or limit war. The final section of the course will be devoted to the issues of morality and ethics in international conflicts.

Pol Sci 381, The Development of Western Political Thought
-001, Ted Meckstroth, W 6:30-9:10 pm
Political theory from the Greek era to the present is the basis of this course.

Pol Sci 390, Political Data Analysis
-001, John Bohte, MW 11:00-12:50
This course provides an introduction to basic research methods used in political science. The first part of the class will focus broadly on how the research process works. Topics discussed will include the nature of scientific explanations, theory development, hypothesis testing, and research design issues. The second part of the course will provide an overview of statistical methods and their use in political science research. Topics discussed will include inference, contingency tables, and regression analysis.

No prior knowledge of statistics/advanced math is required to take this course.
Although this is a four credit course, we will not be holding computer lab sessions in addition to the lectures. Instead, the techniques normally covered in lab sessions will be covered in class. Students will learn how to conduct various statistical methods using SPSS and Microsoft Excel. Some short homework assignments related to these computer applications will be required. Course Requirements: Three exams, homework assignments, article summaries.

Pol Sci 408, The American Presidency
-001, Carrie Cihasky, MW 2:00-3:15
This course explores the historical development of the institution of the presidency, from its development at the American founding to the current state of the office. The course begins with an examination into the founders’ considerations when creating the executive branch. Given the importance of the 2008 election, we will also focus on the evolution of presidential elections and the impact electoral reforms have on the presidential candidates (and the eventual winner). The second part of the class focuses on the leadership and management styles of presidents, and how these styles influence their relationships with Congress, the bureaucracy, and judiciary. The final part of the class focuses on presidents' increasing role in the policy making process. In particular, we focus on the president’s role in domestic, economic and foreign policy.

Pol Sci 412, Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Liberties
-001, Sara Pashak, MW 2:00-3:15 pm
-202, Sara Pashak, ONLINE
This course is designed to familiarize you, the dutiful student, with Supreme Court policy making in the form of the Court’s written opinions. The Supreme Court, the highest judicial institution in the United States, makes decisions which affect the lives of people all over the country. In this course, I hope to promote an understanding and appreciation of the profound influence the Supreme Court has on life as we know and love it today, as well as to convey the very political nature of this institution. All too often, we Americans subscribe to the myth which surrounds this highest of legal institutions, shrouding it in the "cult of the robe," placing its justices above politics and above the "humanness" of humanity. However true that may be in theory, since the creation of the High Court was indeed a means to check popular control of government, it is not true in reality. Politics plays an everyday role in the functioning of the Supreme Court, evidenced by the occasional ruckus surrounding a Supreme Court nomination, or picketing outside the Court over an unpopular opinion, or political mobilization over a Constitutional amendment to overrule a Court decision. Politics is present on the Court, both in the outside forces that hope to influence it, and in the internally held policy preferences of its justices. Even the Constitution is not without controversy, as it is an extremely vaguely written document, able to be convincingly construed in any number of ways. Hence the many conflicting opinions written by the justices themselves, charged to make sense of our forefathers’ legacy.

In this course, you will read and brief and present many opinions written by these Supreme Court justices, both the majority opinions and the accompanying disagreements (dissents and concurrences). You will also complete a course paper where you will act as a particular Justice deciding a hypothetical case. Participation is essential in this course, so come ready to debate some big issues in civil rights and civil liberties.

Pol Sci 421, Party Politics in America
-201, Michael Tofias, ONLINE
The U.S. party system and its role in binding electoral, legislative and executive institutions together in American politics. An emphasis on historical development with special attention given to the 2008 election.

Pol Sci 423, Conduct of American Foreign Affairs
-001, Steve Redd, TR 2:00-3:15
This course will examine U.S. foreign policy in detail. Specifically, we will be focusing on -process actually conduct foreign policy. To do so, we will briefly review key concepts that influence U.S. foreign policy such as the structure of the international system, power and capabilities, relevant actors, models of foreign policy decision making, perceptions, and historical perspectives or themes such as the Cold War. We will then concentrate on how U.S. foreign policy varies by region as well as what current regional issues are of most concern to U.S. policy makers. We will also discuss “hot topics” such as economic foreign policy, nuclear proliferation, human rights, terrorism, etc. The objective of this course is to help you understand how a knowledge of the past, the current actors, the environment, the decision process as well as the type of issue under consideration all help to determine how U.S. foreign policy will be carried out in the contemporary world arena and how U.S. foreign policy ultimately affects you.

Pol Sci 426, Congressional Politics
-001, Michael Tofias, MW 11:00-12:15
The role of the US Congress in shaping public policy, with an emphasis on elections and historical development. A careful examination of institutional rules, incentives of political actors, and congressional responsiveness to public opinion, parties and interest groups.

Pol Sci 452, Administrative Law
-201, Marc Ethridge, ONLINE

Pol Sci 464, Women and the Law
-201, Erin Olsen, ONLINE
This course explores developments with respect to gender and the law in the areas of employment, education, family, criminal, and constitutional law. Specific topics examined in the course include: employment discrimination, sexual harassment, affirmative action, equal education opportunity, marriage and divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and reproductive rights.

Pol Sci 471, Problems in Law Studies
-001, Bradley Bloch, M 6:30-9:10

Pol Sci 489, Internship in Political Science
One credit earned for 40 hrs work. Re-takable to 6 cr. Max. Prereq: Junior Standing; 300-level or above course in Political Science; 2.75 GPA; consent supervising faculty member.

Pol Sci 497, Study Abroad
Re-takable with topic change. Prereq: Acceptance for study abroad program; study abroad requires acceptance in UWM-sponsored program.

Pol Sci 499, Ad Hoc
-002, Tom Holbrook, TBA

Pol Sci 500, Capstone Course in Political Science
-001, Marc Ethridge, MW 9:30-10:45
This course is designed for Political Science Majors in their senior year. Students in the class will therefore have taken courses in research methodology and in a number of specialized subjects in political science. The Capstone is intended (a) to give each student an opportunity to design and carry out a research project on a topic in which he or she is particularly interested, and (b) to strengthen his/her understanding of the basic issues and problems encountered in the study of politics and government.

Pol Sci 699, Independent Reading
Students with superior grade-point averages and special aptitudes may be given permission to earn up to 6 credits toward the major by writing a thesis or doing directed research or reading.

Pol Sci 702, Advanced Techniques of Political Science Research
-001, Shale Horowitz, M 4:30-7:10 pm
Advanced course in quantitative analysis stressing the application of econometric techniques to the study of politics. After a review of the linear regression model, the course focuses first on a series of simpler generalizations of the linear model, and then on some more complex models.

Pol Sci 704, Advanced Techniques of Political Science Research
-001, Ann Greer, W 4:30-7:10 pm

Pol Sci 725, Judicial Politics and Behavior
-001, Erin Olsen, T 4:30-7:10 pm
This seminar will explore multiple areas in the judicial behavior and politics literature. Topics that will be addressed in the course include judicial review and constitutional interpretation, judicial selection, judicial agenda setting/case selection, judicial decision making, public opinion and the courts, interest group participation in the judiciary, party capability, and judicial implementation/impact.

Pol Sci 769, Analyzing and Evaluating Public Policies and Programs
-001, Mordecai Lee, T 4:00-6:40 pm
In general, the course is about the production of information (by you) for decision-making by higher-ups. More specifically, the course covers policy analysis, program evaluation and performance measurement. Students will first study, experiment with and utilize a broad array of policy analysis techniques. Second, we will examine program evaluation as a tool for reviewing the results of major decisions in governmental and nonprofit organizations. Related to that, we will briefly review performance measurement as a tool for evaluating the results of governmental programs and policies. Throughout the course, students will (1) evaluate others' policy reports, (2) perform exercises that apply some of the methods being studied, (3) prepare a substantial policy analysis report in a small group and (4) conduct quick reviews of policies in the news.

By the conclusion of the semester, students will be familiar with an extensive array of methods of policy analysis and program evaluation that successfully bridge the gap between the complexity of policy problems and the need for pragmatism in decision-making in the public sector.

Pol Sci 888, Candidate for Degree

Pol Sci 913, Seminar in Urban Political Process
-001, Joel Rast, W 4:30-7:10 pm

Pol Sci 914, Seminar in Intergovernmental Relations
-001, Jerry Poppe, 4:00-6:40 pm
To deepen the understanding of policy issues in intergovernmental relations and the complex governmental context in which Americans live and work. Prereq: grad st.

Pol Sci 921, Public Service Administrative Internship
This course requires students to have an internship in a Government or non-profit environment at the beginning of the semester, and/or permission of the instructor. The internship course is designed to augment your internship experience with relevant presentations, discussions, and reading assignments.
Class Participation, and evaluation by the internship site supervisor, and a final paper relevant to the internship, constitutes elements for the course grade.

Pol Sci 929, Seminar in Voting Behavior
-001, Tom Holbrook, R 4:30-7:10 pm

Pol Sci 958, Seminar in Public Administration
-001, Doug Ihrke, R 5:30-8:10 pm
This course has variable content course covering different subjects in Public Administration.

Pol Sci 959, Capstone Seminar in Public Administration
-001, Steve Percy, M 5:30-8:10 pm

Pol Sci 960, International Conflict
-001, Uk Heo, R 4:30-7:10
In this class, we review the literature in political science on international conflicts. In the process, we examine the leading theories, their key variables and research methods. These include balance of power theory, power transition theory, expected utility theory of war, hegemonic stability theory, long cycle theory of war, diversionary theory of war, arms race/arms control, deterrence, democratic peace, and the trade-conflict nexus.

Pol Sci 965, Municipal Management
-001, Chris Swarz, R 7:00-9:40 pm

Pol Sci 973, Political Parties
-001, Jennifer Smith, M 7:30-10:10 pm
This course is a seminar on the comparative study of political parties. We will cover a range of topics (defining "party"; types of parties; party organization; party systems; party origins; party decline), and we will read both classic and contemporary work. Although the primary focus will be on democratic parties and on the comparative literature, some attention will also be devoted to the US parties and to parties in non-democratic (or less-democratic) contexts. Graduate students new to comparative politics are welcome to enroll.

Pol Sci 990, Research and Thesis

Pol Sci 999, Independent Work
Individual work directed by a member of the Graduate Faculty.

Course Descriptions, Fall 2008

Pol Sci 103, Introduction to Political Science
-401, Justin Clardie, MW, 10:00-10:50
This course is designed to introduce students to the basic issues and concepts of politics and government in the United States and elsewhere. A major portion of the course is devoted to the study of political behavior in the forms of voting, public opinion, political parties and interest groups, and the main institutions of government as well.

Pol Sci 104, Introduction to American Government and Politics
-001, Carrie Cihasky, T, 4:30-7:10
-402, Kathleen Dolan, MW 12:00-12:50
This course explores the fundamental questions about American government and politics. How does the political system work? Why does it work the ways it does? What are the consequences for ordinary citizens of the government functioning as it does? In seeking answers to these questions, we will explore the impact of the Constitution, public opinion, interest groups, political parties, and elections on decision-making by Congress, the President and the judiciary.

Pol Sci 105, State Politics
-001, TBA, W 4:30-7:10
-203, John Bohte, Online
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of state and local political institutions. Emphasis will be placed on learning why political institutions and political cultures differ across the American states. We will also spend some time reviewing political institutions and political behavior in Wisconsin. Grades will be determined based on performance on 3 multiple chose/short answer exams, a short paper, and attendance in discussion.

Pol Sci 106, Politics of the World's Nations
-401, Kristin Trenholm, TR 1:00-1:50
Politics of the World's Nations is designed to help students better understand politics and political systems in other parts of the world and, hopefully, to increase our understanding of American politics. After establishing concepts and models that allow us to compare differing political systems, we devote the rest of the semester to examining the politics of Britain, France China and Russia. Particular emphasis sis placed on the socioeconomic and cultural basis of politics as well as the major political institutions and forms of political behavior.

Pol Sci 175, Introduction to International Relations
-001, Jung-Yeop Woo, R, 4:30-7:10
-402, Steven Redd, TR, 10:00-10:50
This course will provide you with both a broad and detailed introduction to international relations. You will be presented with theoretical concepts and empirical information that will allow you to critically examine world issues and events. Specifically, you will learn about such topics as perspectives in international relations (idealism and realism), actors in the international system, international conflict, foreign policy, power, international political economy and international trade, development, the environment, international law, and the new world order as well as many other related topics. The objective of this course is to ensure that you understand why, how, and in what ways nation-states and other international actors interact in the world arena and how this affects you both directly and indirectly.

Pol Sci 193, Freshman Seminar: You Be Perry Mason
-001, Brad Bloch, M, 6:30-9:10

Pol Sci 203, Introduction to Political Science Research
-001, Steven Redd, TR, 2:00-3:15
This course serves as an introduction to the philosophy and practice of political science including the basic methods of research in political science. We will explore what is meant by "science" and the scientific method, and the various subfields of political science. We will also cover the various stages of the research process, as well as the basics of political analysis. By the end of the course, students should develop:

A knowledge and understanding of basic concepts in political science research;
The ability to offer sophisticated, critical analyses of empirical work;
Competence in rudimentary statistical skills;
The skills to write quality review and research papers in upper division courses.

Pol Sci 215, Ethnicity, Religion and Race in American Politics
-001, Don Pienkos, TR, 9:30-10:45
This course provides a clear overview of the social forces of race, religion, and ethnicity that help shape American politics, representative government, and public policy. Further, it looks at the attempts by organized groups to advance the political agendas of American, based on their racial group identifications, religious affiliations, and national or ethnic origins. This course meets UWM's general education and cultural diversity requirement. It also satisfies the American politics requirement of the Political Science Major at UW-Milwaukee.

Pol Sci 243, Public Administration
-001, Dennis Hatch, MW, 11:00-12:15
This course is intended to provide students with an introduction to the field of Public Administration. During more so the semester, we will examine the politics and administration of public policies and the various institutions which are responsible for the implementation of those public polices, whether they are at federal, state or local level of government. We will also examine the roles and responsibilities of public sector administrators. We will look at the various theories and management techniques employed in the field of Public Administration and their impact on the decision-making process. During the later part of the semester, we will provide a more in-depth focus on local government administration, and the issues and policies which affect us directly.

Pol Sci 250, Law and Society
-201, Erin Olsen, Online
This course provides a broad overview of American legal traditions, institutions, and processes. Topics examined in the course include: the nature and organization of law, the nature of legal reasoning, the role of courts and the legal profession, legal education, the adversary process, the role of juries, and the relationship between law and social change.

Pol Sci 255, Great Issues of Politics
-001, Ted Meckstroth, TR, 2:00-3:15
This course discusses major problems in political thought, such as war and peace, justice and power, liberty and authority, identity and alienation, and stability and change.

Pol Sci 268, Practicum in Mock Trial I
-001, Brad Bloch, R, 6:30-9:10

Pol Sci 281, Classics of Political Theory
-001, TBA, TR, 12:30-1:45

Pol Sci 300, Western European Politics
-001, Jennifer Smith, MW, 11:00-12:15
This course provides a general introduction to contemporary politics in Western Europe. Topics include elections and the formation of governments, political parties, the European political economy, and the politics of the welfare state. We will close with two topics critical to the future of Europe: the development of the European Union and the consequences of the increasing ethnic and religious diversity of European states.

Pol Sci 310, Politics of the Soviet Union and Its Successor States
-001, Don Pienkos, TR, 12:30-1:45
This course offers a comprehensive overview of the Russian and Soviet political experience with emphasis on developments over the past ninety years. Attention is given to the fall of Russian tsarism, the achievements and failures of Soviet rule (1917-1991), and the causes of the downfall of Soviet communism. Problems facing the successor states that have emerged out of the Soviet Union are covered, and with them the obstacles that were facing the birth of democratic politics. Foreign policy and international relations are also discussed.

Pol Sci 337, International Organization and the United Nations
-201, Shale Horowitz, Online
This course discusses collective security as an approach to international peace. With the emphasis on the changing nature of the United Nations, its major problems, and the current national and bloc policies by member states.

Pol Sci 339, European Integration
-001, Jenifer Smith, MW, 2:00-3:15
This course reviews the development of the European Union in the light of recurring questions about the EU as a political community: How does EU government work? What are we to make of a polity that is less than a state but- seemingly - more than a mere association of governments? Particular attention will be paid to contemporary themes including EU expansion eastward, the problem of the "democratic deficit," and the state of transatlantic relations.

Pol Sci 343, Asian International Relations
-201, Uk Heo, Online
The general objective of this course is to develop a clear understanding of how changes in the post-WW II international political system have influenced the strategic, political, and economic situations in East Asia. Since the development of East Asia from being economic backwater to export powerhouses has certainly not escaped the attention of social scientists. The recent financial crisis even increased global attention to Asia. Thus, this course examines political, economic, and military systems in China, Japan and Korea to study political, economic and security issues. In addition, we explore international relations among these countries as well as the role of the United States in the region.

Pol Sci 346, U.S.-Latin America Relations
-001, Natasha Sugiyama, TR, 9:30-10:45
This course provides an overview of the evolution of United States foreign relations with Latin America. The first part of the course lays a theoretical and historical foundation for analyzing U.S. interests in the region. The second part of the course will focus primarily on the latter half of the 20th century and ways in which the Cold War shaped U.S. policy intervention in the region. The last section will explore contemporary issues on the U.S. foreign policy agenda, including: expanding trade, promoting environmental protection, regulating immigration, and curbing the flow of narcotics.

Pol Sci 365, Theories and Methods in International Politics
-001, Kristin Trenholm, TR, 9:30-10:45

Pol Sci 370, International Conflict
-001 Kristin Trenholm, F, 9:00-11:40

Pol Sci 380, Honors Seminar
-001, Marc Ethridge, TR 12:30-1:20

Pol Sci 385, American Political Thought
-001, Ted Meckstroth, W, 6:30-9:10
Analysis of the central principles that underlie the major political controversies concerning democracy, rights, freedom, property, etc. in the United States, past and present. Theories involved in the founding of the American system to be discussed include those of John Locke, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. Contemporary perspectives will include modern classics by Robert Dahl, Milton Friedman and C. Wright Mills.

Pol Sci 408, The American Presidency
-001, Carrie Cihasky, TR, 12:30-1:45

Pol Sci 411, Constitutional Law: Government Powers and Federalism
-201, Erin Kaheny, MW, Online
In this course, we will explore constitutional developments in defining the nature and scope of judicial, congressional, and executive power. The course will also address the enduring constitutional debates surrounding the appropriate balance of power between the national and state governments. In this setting, students will be introduced to basic legal terminology and alternative theories of constitutional interpretation. In addition, students will be challenged to consider the Supreme Court in light of the larger political context in which it operates.

Pol Sci 412, Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Liberties
-001, Amy Wochos, MW, 5:30-6:45

Pol Sci 421, Party Politics in America
-201, Michael Tofias, Online
The U.S. party system and its role in binding electoral, legislative and executive institutions together in American politics. An emphasis on historical development with special attention given to the 2008 election.

Pol Sci 467, Elections and Voting Behavior
-001, Tom Holbrook, TR, 11:00-12:15

Pol Sci 468, Practicum in Mock Trial II
-001, Brad Bloch, R, 6:30-9:10

Pol Sci 471, Problems in Law Studies
-201, Sara Pashak, Online

Pol Sci 497, Study Abroad
Re-takable with topic change. Prereq: Acceptance for study abroad program; study abroad requires acceptance in UWM-sponsored program.

Pol Sci 500, Capstone Course in Political Science
-001, Marc Ethridge, MW, 9:30-10:45
This course is designed for Political Science Majors in their senior year. Students in the class will therefore have taken courses in research methodology and in a number of specialized subjects in political science. The Capstone is intended (a) to give each student an opportunity to design and carry out a research project on a topic in which he or she is particularly interested, and (b) to strengthen his/her understanding of the basic issues and problems encountered in the study of politics and government.

Pol Sci 630, Budgeting and Finance in the Public Sector
-001, John Bohte, M 6:00-8:40
This course provides an overview of the processes, techniques, and politics of public budgeting. The purpose of this course is to provide a foundation for understanding the nature of public budgeting, primarily at the local level. Special emphasis will be placed on applied budgeting techniques. Topics covered include budget design, forecasting techniques, local economic development strategies, introductory fund accounting, and municipal bonds, among others. Grades will be based on two exams, in-class exercises, and a paper assignment.

Pol Sci 700, Scope and Methods of Political Science I
-001, Kathleen Dolan, W 4:30-7:10

Pol Sci 701, Techniques of Political Science Research
-001, Tom Holbrook, T, 4:30-7:10 This course is designed to introduce graduate students to the fundamentals of data analysis in political science. By the end of the semester, students should be able to read and have a basic understanding of a typical quantitative political science article or book. Students will also have acquired enough knowledge of statistics and computing to be able to conduct their own quantitative research project.

Pol Sci 749, Seminar in American Political Institutions
-001, Michael Tofias, M, 4:30-7:10
An introduction and a survey of the institutions literature. We will study foundational materials and some theoretical underpinnings of constitutions, markets, elections, parties, the presidency, Congress, courts, the bureaucracy, interest groups and more. Prereq: grad st.

Pol Sci 763, Scope and Dynamics of Public Administration
-001, Doug Ihrke, W, 7:00-9:40
This seminar is on the interaction between political environment and public agency decision making. The seminar introduces analytic tools to political science and other students emphasizing public administration.

Pol Sci 783, Theory and Role of Nonprofit Organizations
-001, Mordecai Lee, R, 4:30-7:10

Pol Sci 792, Decision Making for Nonprofit and Public Organizations
-002, John Bohte, R, 5:00-7:40
This course provides an introduction to some basic research tools useful to public and nonprofit managers. The first part of the class will focus on measurement and research design issues. The second part of the course will provide an overview of statistical and decision making tools. Topics discussed will include hypothesis testing, statistical inference, contingency tables, and regression analysis. The emphasis here will be on how to use statistics to make better management decisions. A portion of the course will also be devoted to qualitative research methods techniques.

Pol Sci 793, Law of Nonprofit Organizations
-001, Jacqueline Boynton, T, 7:00-9:40
This class covers the legal concepts and issues relevant to the formations and operations of nonprofit organizations, while complying with applicable federal and state statutes and regulations.

Pol Sci 818, Theories of International Political Economy
-001, Shale Horowitz, M, 4:30-7:10
After a brief introduction to basic theory on property rights and the rule of law, and on international trade and finance, the course is divided into two main parts. The first part examines the historical development of the international economy from the late 19th century through the present. The second part focuses on foreign economic policy in the developing world since World War II.

Pol Sci 888, Candidate for Degree

Pol Sci 990, Research and Thesis

Pol Sci 999, Independent Work
Individual work directed by a member of the Graduate Faculty.

University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee

Political Science

Courses Offered

UWM Schedule of Classes

Courses Offered

Course Descriptions, Spring 2009

Course Descriptions, Fall 2008