PS 312 - The Us Congress

Credits: 3

Congress is often referred to as “the People’s Branch” of government because voters now directly elect members of both houses, which is different than the other two branches. Yet Congress regularly is held in low esteem by the public. This course explores the constitutional basis of Congress: how it is elected, its powers and its role in a system of separate branches with checks and balances. It also traces Congress’s historical development and explains how and why it functions today. Multiple case studies are used to illustrate important points, and a congressional simulation is conducted at the semester’s end in which students assume the role of a newly elected member of the House.

Pre-Requisites: PS 111 or permission of instructor
Terms Offered: Spring semester in even-numbered years.
Repeatable: May not be repeated for credit