COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is a study of national governmental institutions with emphasis on the Constitution, the functions of executive, legislative and judicial branches, civil liberties and the role of the electorate. The impact of current events on the national government and institutions is emphasized.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: This course is designed to give the student a general introduction to American politics and government. Its purpose is to provide an understanding of the basic institutions of American government, the Constitution and the ideals of American political philosophy, and to explore the implications of key current events as they impact on the American process.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1) Describe the fundamental goals of political science and explain the role of modern research techniques in the study and evaluation of the American national government and its policies.

2) Describe the evolution of the American political system from historical developments to its current effect on American society.

3) Explain the theoretical structure of constitutional democracy in America, especially as it applies to constitutional guarantees of civil rights and civil liberties.

4) Explain the role of political linkages between institutions of democracy and the American public.

5) Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the American national government and its role in national policy making.