American politics in the 21st century ADED11425E

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: Short Courses
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

This course will examine the interplay between institutions, elected politicians and the public to consider politics in America today. The ideals of the American system and the actual outcomes that are being realised in contemporary elections and policy results will be discussed and examined.

Timetable

2 hours per week for 10 weeks

Block 2: Monday, 1900-2100 hours

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

 Essay (100%): 2,000 words.

Course Aims

This course aims to:

■ Offer a fresh and stimulating approach to the analysis and understanding of the various inputs which are instrumental in the shaping of politics, society and culture of the United States of America today.

■ Consider key aspects of the United States of America Federal political, social and cultural systems, and the constitutional and ideological underpinnings of the system.

■ Encourage research and discussion of a number of socially and politically contested issues in the United States of America, making effective use of a variety of printed and electronic sources when doing so.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Demonstrate a broad knowledge and understanding of key aspects of the United States of America Federal political system.

■ Apply a variety of concepts to engage in the analysis of institutions and electoral events in US politics.

■ Present the results of self-directed study and reflection clearly and concisely in written and oral form.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.