This course allows students to pursue topics that are not 
covered in  the regular curriculum or are covered less 
intensively. Special topics courses are individually designed 
by the instructor for a specific semester.  In the area of 
American politics, students will study specific aspects of 
questions raised in other American politics courses, such as 
theories and practices of political institutions, behavior, or 
policy making in the United States.  

Students may be exposed to current, scholarly debates in 
American politics, which could include discussions about 
political events in Congress, the presidency, or the courts.  
The goal of the course is to increase critical evaluation with 
respect to the central topic of the course. Students may be 
evaluated based on examinations, research papers, class 
discussion, presentations, and/or homework assignments.

Possible Course Topics:

Democracy and Representation
Institutional Development
Leadership
Accountability
Performance
Elections
Policy-Making
Separation of Powers

All academic work must meet the standards contained in "A 
Culture of Honesty." Students are responsible for informing 
themselves about these standards before performing academic 
work.  The penalties for academic dishonesty are severe and 
ignorance is not an acceptable defense.  Also note that the 
course syllabus is a general plan for the course and that 
deviations announced to the class by the instructor may be 
necessary. 
(www.uga.edu/ovpi/academic_honesty/academic_honesty.htm).