POLS 105 - Survey of American Government

Credits: 3
Lecture Contact Hours: 3
Description: This course is an introductory study of the American political system. Emphasis is placed on historical and contemporary political theories and ideologies as well as on political institutions, parties and interest groups. You will engage in analysis of decision-makers, power and controversial issues.

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: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Check Course Availability

Course Competencies

Compare major political ideologies.
Investigate how America’s founding documents provide a framework for the country’s political system.
Analyze the development of American federalism.
Examine the constitutional limits of civil liberties and civil rights.
Differentiate between American political parties.
Evaluate how Congress fulfills its constitutional and democratic responsibilities.
Evaluate how presidents fulfill their political and legal roles.
Investigate the federal judiciary’s structure and role in settling legal disputes.
Analyze the formation and implementation of American public policy.