Course Description
Local politics in the United States, including the development of cities, local government organization, participation of individuals and groups in urban politics, and policy making at the local level.
Athena Title
URBAN POLITICS
Prerequisite
POLS 1101
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to do the following: 1. Describe urbanization in the United States, analyze explanations for these patterns, and evaluate possible consequences of the ways that urban areas have developed. 2. Explain the ways in which the national and state governments affect the actions of local governments in the U.S. 3. Describe differences in the organization of local governments in the United States, as well as analyze possible causes and consequences of these differences. 4. Describe and explain patterns of participation in local politics, including differences with the national and state levels of government in the U.S. 5. Describe the ways that local governments provide services and make policies in the United States.
Topical Outline
1. Context of Urban Politics Studying Urban Politics Urban Development in the U.S. Intergovernmental Relations Government Structure 2. Political Participation at the Local Level Elections Political Parties and Interest Groups Contacting and Protest 3. Local Policy Issues The Policy-Making Process Local Government Services Land Use, Housing, and Growth Economic Development Housing Social Issues
Syllabus