Study of the American federal republic and political system. Focuses on the constitutional structure, limits and operation of the federal government, protection of individual rights, federal-state relations, political processes, and dynamic changes in the government system over time.

Meets MSU-Northern General Education Core Social Sciences/History (CAT IV) requirement.
Montana University System Core Course

Introduction to such modern political ideologies as Classical Liberalism, Democratic and Totalitarian Socialism, Conservatism, Fascist Totalitarianism, and Environmentalism. Focuses on the nature of ideological thinking, the logic and internal structures of various ideologies, and their effects in practice.

Meets MSU-Northern General Education Core Social Sciences/History (CAT IV) requirement.
Montana University System Core Course

Introductory study of state and local government, including constitutions, legislatures, supreme courts, governors’ administrative agencies in their historic and contemporary settings. County and city governments are included in the scope of this course.

A study of the principal forces, movements, ideologies, and instruments of international politics.

This is a study of political economy focusing on what modern public choice and public interest models say about the proper boundaries of the public and private sectors. It analyzes the rent-seeking activities of special interest groups and the relative impacts of altruism and self-interest in explaining political behavior and governmental policies in democratic systems. The material focuses on the nature of public goods, market failures, government regulation, and wealth redistribution, among other topics. Theoretical, historical, and empirical forms of evidence are brought to bear on the issues.

Student participation in the examination of contemporary political ideologies. Contemporary issues in political science, including the structures of political parties, are discussed.

Prerequisite: Junior standing

A study of the origin and development of the American Constitution including the separation of powers, the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches of government.

Meets MSU-Northern General Education Core Social Sciences/History (CAT IV) requirement.
Montana University System Core Course