Explore the foundations of political life — from the nature of power and authority to the ideologies that shape modern governance, the institutions that structure democratic and authoritarian states, and the global forces that connect nations in an increasingly interdependent world. Each module combines in-depth readings with real-world case studies, comparative analysis, visual diagrams, and knowledge checks. You will examine how political systems work, why they differ, and how citizens, parties, and interest groups influence the policy process. By the end of this track you will be able to analyze political institutions, evaluate competing ideologies, and understand the forces that shape governance from the local level to the international stage.
What is politics? Explore the core concepts of power, authority, legitimacy, and the state that form the foundation of political science.
Explore the major political ideologies — liberalism, conservatism, socialism, fascism, and anarchism — that shape political debate and governance worldwide.
Compare democracies, authoritarian regimes, and hybrid systems. Examine parliamentary vs. presidential government and how political institutions shape governance.
A deep dive into the American political system — the Constitution, separation of powers, federalism, and the ongoing tension between liberty and order.
Explore the theories and institutions that shape global politics — realism, liberalism, constructivism, and the architecture of global governance.
How governments make policy — from agenda-setting through implementation. Explore the policy process, the welfare state, and the politics of economic regulation.
How citizens participate in politics — through voting, parties, campaigns, media, and interest groups. Includes a capstone project analyzing a real political system.
Comprehensive assessment covering all modules of the Political Science & Government track.
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