This minor is designed to provide students with an understanding of the institutions and processes involved in the formulation of demands made on the American political system and the responsiveness of the authorities in the system to these demands.
Competencies, Knowledge, or Skills to be Achieved:
Through the study of topics such as the formulation and expression of public opinion, the effectiveness with which political parties create and maintain broad-based governing coalitions, and the fidelity with which students should develop a solid grasp of the linkages between public opinion and public policy. Since democratic theory assumes the existence of this linkage, students completing the minor should have a solid understanding of the practice of American democracy. Since a number of courses in the minor require the quantitative analysis of data, students should also deepen their knowledge of the methods of the social sciences. The requirement that papers and reports be submitted should enhance mastery of the English language.
This minor is not approved for students majoring in political science.
Structure of the Minor:
1. Required Courses
PSCI 301 American Parties and Politics
PSCI 308 Public Opinion
PSCI 305 American Presidency or PSCI 306 Legislative Process
2. Electives (choose two)
PSCI 304 American Political Thought
PSCI 305 American Presidency or PSCI 306 Legislative Process
PSCI 307 Southern Politics
PSCI 309 Religion and Politics
PSCI 393 Scope and Method of Political Science
PSCI 396 Politics and the Media
PSCI 401 Political Issues and Public Policy
PSCI 403 Topics in American Government and Politics
Total Credit Hours Required – 15, of which 3 must be completed at The Citadel.