POLS 205 - Political Parties

Credits: 3
Lecture Contact Hours: 3
Description: This course examines the organization and functions of American political parties. Emphasis is placed on the nature of political campaigns, party conventions, the organization and functioning of political parties and citizen participation in politics. A historical review of parties and their ideological developments is also included.

Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Recommended: None.

Course Category: Liberal Arts | Social Science
This course counts toward Schoolcraft’s General Education Requirements.
This course counts toward a Michigan Transfer Agreement General Education Requirement.

This Course is Typically Offered: Fall Only
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Course Competencies

Examine the characteristics and functions of political parties.
Summarize the rise and history of political parties in the United States.
Compare the organization of the major political parties at the three levels of the American federal system.
Evaluate the source and nature of support for the two major parties.
Analyze how political party activities impact presidential and congressional elections, and the appointment of judges.
Contrast ideological and issue differences between the Republicans and Democrats.
Evaluate the role of third parties in the American political party system.
Investigate levels of political participation and support for political parties among individual citizens and interest groups.
Explain the importance of political parties in the American political system.