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State Politics


Course Description

Politics in the American states. Similarities and differences in state constitutions, government structure, political participation, and public policies.


Athena Title

STATE POLITICS


Prerequisite

POLS 1101


Semester Course Offered

Not offered on a regular basis.


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

LEARNING OBJECTIVES At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to do the following: 1. Describe the major similarities and differences between the U.S. national government and the states, and explain possible effects of the differences. 2. Describe and explain differences among the states in terms of their constitutions and branches of government. 3. Describe the major differences in political participation (particularly elections, political parties, and interest groups) among the states and explain possible consequences of these differences. 4. Explain how and why public policies differ among the states. 5. Compare Georgia’s constitution, government, and political participation to the other states.


Topical Outline

COURSE OUTLINE 1. Foundations of State Politics Studying the States State Constitutions Intergovernmental Relations 2. Political Participation Forms of Participation Elections Political Parties Interest Groups 3. Political Institutions Legislatures Executives Legal Systems 4. Public Policies The Policy Process State Government Finances Economic Development Education Regulation Social Welfare and Family Policies Other Policies


Syllabus