PS 203 State and Local Government and Politics

This class completes the three-course sequence in U.S. Government and Politics. The course examines the place of state and local government and politics in the larger federal system. Topics will include federalism, electoral politics, institutions and actors in city, county, and state politics and government, taxation and economic development. This course will include both a comparative analysis of various states and communities as well as examples from Lane County and Oregon.

Credits

3

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Compare and contrast the roles and responsibilities of local, state, and federal governments within the context of the U.S. federal system
2. Analyze how social and political phenomena influence human and governmental behavior
3. Compare and contrast historical and contemporary issues at the state and local levels
4. Explain the roles and responsibilities of individuals and/or institutions within the context of state and local politics to provide a foundation for effective civic participation
5. Develop and express political ideas and opinions through the critical evaluation of political information with respect for different points of view
6. Apply knowledge and experiences to increase appreciation for and participation in the state and local political community