Department of Political Science and Public Administration
Undergraduate Coordinator: Dr. Brian Shoup
Office: 194 Bowen Hall
The Department of Political Science and Public Administration offers a Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A.) for individuals who have an interest in politics and who seek careers in the law, in federal, state, or local government (either administrative or elective), in the diplomatic service, with international organizations, in the business world, or in teaching. The Department also offers a Master of Arts degree in Political Science (M.A.), a National Association of Public Affairs and Administration Accredited graduate professional degree in Public Administration (M.P.P.A.) and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration which prepare students for careers in the public service. Interested students should consult the undergraduate or graduate coordinator.
Students pursuing the B.A. degree in Political Science are required to complete PS 1113 and choose three of the following: PS 1313, PS 1513, PS 2403, PS 2703, or PS 2713. Students must also complete PS 4464 in their junior or senior year.
They must also complete a minimum of seven upper-division elective courses in Political Science (totaling at least 21 credits); of these seven courses, at least one must be completed in each of three of the four subfields of the discipline as displayed in the “Part III: Description of Courses” portion of this Bulletin (American Politics, International Politics, Political Theory, and Comparative Politics).
Political Science majors who wish to teach social studies in Mississippi may become certified by combining the Political Science major with appropriate courses in the College of Education; in Mississippi, it is not necessary to major in secondary education in order to become certified to teach. At the same time, majors in secondary education who plan to become social science teachers should consider a second major, or a minor in Political Science.
Students not majoring in Political Science may wish to select a minor. A minor consists of a minimum of 18 hours of course work in Political science at least nine of which must be at the 3000 level or above. Interested nonmajors should speak with the undergraduate coordinator to formulate a suitable program of study.
The John C. Stennis Scholarship in Political Science is awarded each spring to at least two graduating high school seniors and/or community-college graduates who are Mississippi residents, and who plan to major in Political Science at Mississippi State University. These scholarships carry a stipend of $2,000 per year for four years or until graduation, whichever comes sooner.1 The Stennis Scholarships are awarded to academically outstanding students who demonstrate the desire and potential to become actively involved as leaders in the political and governmental affairs of the community, state, or nation. For further information, consult the Head of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, P.O. Box PC, Mississippi State, MS 39762 or telephone (662) 325-2711.
The Morris W. H. “Bill” Collins Scholarship may be awarded to one African American political science major who is a resident of Mississippi, who has earned 15 credits in Political Science at Mississippi State University, and who demonstrates potential for making contributions in some area of public service. This scholarship carries a stipend of $1,500 per year for two years or until graduation, whichever comes first. For further information, consult the Head of the Department of Political Science, P.O. Box PC, Mississippi State, MS 39762 or telephone (662) 325-2711.
The Haley Barbour Scholarship is awarded each spring to one Political Science major, with two years of college remaining, who evidences a determination to become involved in the political life of the nation. The Barbour Scholarship carries a stipend of $1,500 per year for a maximum of two years, typically the recipient’s junior and senior years. For further information, consult the Head of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, P.O. Box PC, Mississippi State, MS 39762 or telephone (662) 325-2711.
The Tip Allen Scholarships are awarded to Political Science majors who are participating in a public service internship in the summer, who have earned at least 12 credits in Political Science at MSU, and who demonstrate potential for making contributions in some area of public service.
The Dr. Marty Wiseman Scholarship is awarded to a Political Science major who has demonstrated achievement and a commitment to public service.
The Dr. Charles E. Menifield Public Service and Leadership Annual Scholarship is awarded to an African American Political Science major who has demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to public service.
The following is a typical course of study for Political Science majors, but students should consult with their advisor in order to develop a program which is best for them. For more information contact: Dr. Brian Shoup at bds223@msstate.edu.
| 1 | Transfer students receive the stipend for two years or until graduation, which ever comes sooner. |
Minor in Pre-Law
Whit Waide, Advisor
199 Bowen Hall
wwaide@pspa.msstate.edu
The interdisciplinary minor in Pre-Law consists of 19 credit hours offered through several departments and programs throughout the university. The minor will consist of a two-semester prerequisite class called "Introduction to Law I and II" (PS 1182/1192), as well as the requirement that a student take PHI 1113 Introduction to Logic, and a Constitutional Law class (PS 3063, 3073, or AAS 3043/PS 3043) or Principles of Legal Writing (EN 4223). At least 9 of the 19 hours must be at the 3000 or 4000 level.
The Pre-Law minor is designed to be a curriculum that is consistent with the best practice in preparing undergraduates for the study of law. It has an interdisciplinary focus, creates a practicum like common experience, and focuses on analytic skill development. It will assist students in determining whether they desire to attend law school and will provide exposure to what they will encounter should they decide to attend law school.
Accelerated MPPA Program
Brian Shoup
194 Bowen Hall
bds223@msstate.edu
Students with at least a 3.5 GPA can opt to apply for the Accelerated MPPA program in their senior year. This program allows students to take up to nine (9) credit hours of approved classes for both undergraduate AND graduate credit that can be applied towards their MPPA degree. In essence, students graduate with both a BA and a MPPA degree, Students apply for the graduate program in their senior year and take three approved cross-listed courses in their last semester that contribute to the program.
Core Courses (27 Hours)
PPA 8103 Seminar in Public Administration
PPA 8703 Government Organization and Administrative Theory
PPA 8713 Public Personnel Management
PPA 8723 Public Budgeting and Financial Management
PPA 8733 Public Program Evaluation
PPA 8743 Administrative Law
PPA 8803 Research Methods for Public Affairs
PPA 8903 Public Policy
PPA 8983 Integrative Capstone
Electives (12 Hours)
Each student must complete a 12-hour elective concentration to augment knowledge, skills, and abilities acquired in required courses. These courses are tailored to the student's career objective.
Internship (3 Hours)
Each student completes an internship in a public or nonprofit agency. The internship is waived for students possessing at least one year of relevant work experience.
General Education and College Requirements
| English Composition | ||
| EN 1103 | English Composition I | 3 |
| or EN 1163 | Accelerated Composition I | |
| EN 1113 | English Composition II | 3 |
| or EN 1173 | Accelerated Composition II | |
| Foreign Language | ||
| 3 semesters - one Foreign Language - see advisor | 9 | |
| Humanities | ||
| Literature - see General Education courses | 3 | |
| History - see General Education courses | 3 | |
| Philosophy Elective - Consult advisor | 3 | |
| Humanities Electives - Must be from 2 different areas - see A&S Core | 9 | |
| Mathematics | ||
| MA 1313 | College Algebra | 3 |
| above college algebra | 3 | |
| Fine Arts | ||
| See A&S Core List | 3 | |
| Natural Sciences | ||
| Physical Sciences w/lab (CH, GG, PH) 1 | 3-4 | |
| Biological Sciences w/lab (BIO, EPP, PO) 1 | 3-4 | |
| Natural Science Elective 2 | 3-4 | |
| Social Sciences 3 | ||
| See General Education courses | 6 | |
| Social Sciences Electives | 12 | |
| Major Core | ||
| PS 1113 | American Government 4 | 3 |
| Introductory PS Courses | ||
| Choose three of the following (one counts as a Social Science req): | 9 | |
| Introduction to International Relations | ||
| Comparative Government | ||
| Introduction to Political Theory | ||
| Introduction to Public Policy | ||
| Introduction to Engineering and Public Policy | ||
| PS Upper Division Electives | ||
| See advisors for selection 5 | 21 | |
| Oral Communication Requirement | ||
| CO 1003 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| or CO 1013 | Introduction to Communication | |
| Writing Requirement | ||
| PS 4464 | Political Analysis | 4 |
| Computer Literacy | ||
| PS 4464 | Political Analysis | 4 |
| General Electives | ||
| General Electives | 18 | |
| Total Hours | 124 | |
(31 hours must be A&S upper division)
| 1 | See General Education courses. |
| 2 | Consult advisor. |
| 3 | Must be from 2 different areas and must cross 4 disciplines over the 18 hours. Only one Economics - EC 1033 or EC 2113, can be chosen. See advisor. |
| 4 | Also counts as Social Science Requirement. |
| 5 | Must have at least one course from 3 of 4 areas as listed under the Political Science and Public Administration Department in the bulletin’s Description of Courses: American Politics, International Politics, Political Theory, Comparative Politics. Only one directed individual study course and only one honors thesis course my be included. |
Minor in Pre-Law
| PHI 1113 | Introduction to Logic | 3 |
| PS 1182 | Introduction to Law I | 2 |
| PS 1192 | Introduction to Law II | 2 |
| Choose one of the following: | 3 | |
| Modern Civil Rights Law | ||
| Constitutional Powers | ||
| Civil Liberties | ||
| Principles of Legal Writing | ||
| Elective Courses 1 | 9 | |
| African American Studies | ||
| Modern Civil Rights Law | ||
| African Americans and the Law | ||
| Agricultural Economics | ||
| Public Problems of Agriculture | ||
| Anthropology | ||
| Language and Society | ||
| Business | ||
| The Legal Environment of Business | ||
| The Law of Commercial Transactions | ||
| Business Law for Resorts | ||
| Environmental Law | ||
| International Business Law | ||
| Real Estate Law | ||
| Communication | ||
| Rhetorical Theory | ||
| Elements of Persuasion | ||
| Mass Media Law | ||
| Criminology | ||
| Gender, Crime, and Justice | ||
| Race, Crime and Justice | ||
| Drugs, Crime and Control | ||
| White Collar Crime and Elite Deviance | ||
| Victimology | ||
| Correctional Systems | ||
| Economics | ||
| Survey of Economics | ||
| Labor Law and Employment Policy | ||
| English | ||
| American Literature Before 1865 | ||
| American Literature After 1865 | ||
| World Literature Before 1600 | ||
| World Literature After 1600 | ||
| Principles of Legal Writing | ||
| Foreign Languages | ||
| Latin I | ||
| Latin II | ||
| Latin III | ||
| Latin IV | ||
| Food Science, Nutrition, & Health Promotion | ||
| Food Law | ||
| Forestry | ||
| Natural Resource Law | ||
| Health Care Administration | ||
| Healthcare Regulations | ||
| History | ||
| Historiography and Historical Method | ||
| Insurance | ||
| Principles of Insurance | ||
| Philosophy | ||
| Introduction to Philosophy | ||
| Introduction to Ethics | ||
| Philosophy of Law | ||
| Political Science | ||
| Introduction to Political Theory | ||
| Constitutional Powers | ||
| Civil Liberties | ||
| Law and Politics | ||
| State Government | ||
| Legislative Process | ||
| Judicial Process | ||
| Mississippi Judicial System | ||
| Mississippi Government and Politics | ||
| Principles of International Law | ||
| Psychology | ||
| Psychology and the Law | ||
| Religion | ||
| Introduction to the Old Testament | ||
| Sociology | ||
| Gender, Crime, and Justice | ||
| Race, Crime, & Justice | ||
| Drugs, Crime and Control | ||
| White Collar Crime and Elite Deviance | ||
| Law and Society | ||
| Language and Society | ||
| Sports Administration | ||
| Sport Law | ||
| 1 | Must be from at least two different disciplines |
Political Science Courses
PS 1001 First Year Seminar: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. First-year seminars explore a diverse array of topics that provide students with an opportunity to learn about a specific discipline from skilled faculty members
PS 1113 American Government: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. The evolution of American governmental institutions and the organization and operation of the U.S. government today
PS 1182 Introduction to Law I: 2 hours.
Two hours lecture. A broad overview of the American legal system as encountered in one year of law school: legal history, deductive thinking, and critical analysis
PS 1192 Introduction to Law II: 2 hours.
Two hours lecture. This course examines the modern practice of law in a variety of practice areas via lectures by attorneys who regularly practice in those areas
PS 1311 Mississippi Model Security Council Research I: 1 hour.
Hours arranged. Development of "delegate preparation materials" and Model Security Council booklet for use in Mississippi Model Security Council
PS 1313 Introduction to International Relations: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course examines through case studies the basic concepts of international politics such as nation, state, power, influence, bipolarity, deterrence, non-alignment, alliances and diplomacy
PS 1321 Mississippi Model Security Council Internship I: 1 hour.
Hours arranged. Internship experience as participant in Mississippi Model Security Council as delegate, county advisor, council president, or United Nations Secretary General
PS 1331 Mississippi Model Security Council Research II: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: PS 1311 or PS 1321.) Hours arranged. Development of "delegate preparation materials" and Model Security Council booklet for use in Mississippi Model Security Council
PS 1341 Mississippi Model Security Council Internship II: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: PS 1321.) Hours arranged. Internship experience as participant in Mississippi Model Security Council as delegate, country adviser, council president, or United Nations Secretary General
PS 1351 Mississippi Model Security Council Research III: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: PS 1331 or PS 1341.) Hours arranged. Development of "delegate preparation materials" and Model Security Council booklet for use in Mississippi Model Security Council
PS 1361 Mississippi Model Security Council Internship III: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: PS 1341) Hours arranged. Internship experience as participant in Mississippi Model Security Council as delegate, country adviser, council president, or United Nations Secretary General
PS 1371 Mississippi Model Security Council Research IV: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: PS 1351 or PS 1361.) Hours arranged. Development of "delegate preparation materials" and Model Security Council booklet for use in Mississippi Model Security Council
PS 1381 Mississippi Model Security Council Internship IV: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: PS 1361). Hours arranged. Internship experience as participant in Mississippi Model Security Council as delegate, country adviser, council president, or United Nations Secretary General
PS 1513 Comparative Government: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Survey of various governmental systems
PS 2403 Introduction to Political Theory: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An examination of selected thinkers, text, ideas, and periods in the history of political thought
PS 2703 Introduction to Public Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. An examination of the formulation and implementation of public policy and the roles of government institutions and actors in policy making
PS 2713 Introduction to Engineering and Public Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite:EN 1113 or equivalent). Three hours lecture. A multidisciplinary analysis of public policy issues involving engineering and technolgy and use of policy science to explore complex policy issues. (Same as GE 2713)
PS 2990 Special Topics in Political Science: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PS 3013 Political Leadership: 3 hours.
Analysis of political leadership, emphasizing characteristics of successful leadership and opportunities available to students for leadership in the political arena
PS 3033 Gender and Politics: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Examines gender differences in law, the courts, voting, political involvement, approaches to political power, and violence. (Same as GS 3033)
PS 3043 Modern Civil Rights Law: 3 hours.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or higher. Three hours lecture. An analysis of American law as a tool for social change in education, employment, public accommodations, and voting rights. (Same as AAS 3043)
PS 3063 Constitutional Powers: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. A study of the constitutional system; constitutional modification, federal courts and judicial review, separation of powers, federalism, congressional and presidential powers, and contract clause
PS 3073 Civil Liberties: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Political and civil rights; individual rights, national security and individual freedom; war and the Constitution; equal protection, criminal procedure; administrative process
PS 3183 Law and Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Study of the politics of selected features of the legal system and the political usages of law as a tool for social control
PS 3193 Intergovernmental Relations: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 or PS 1193). Three hours lecture. Historical, prescriptive, and empirical studies of federalism with emphasis upon recent development in federal-state-local relationships
PS 4000 Directed Individual Study in Political Science: 1-6 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing). Hours and credits to be arranged
PS 4093 Senior Honors Thesis in Political Science: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 4083, and consent of department head). Thesis writing on the topic researched in PS 4083
PS 4113 State Government: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Comparative study of the structures, functions, and policies of the various American states
PS 4163 The Chief Executive: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Historical and comparative study of chief executives, including governors and mayors, with special emphasis on the Presidency
PS 4173 Legislative Process: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Organization, work, and procedure of legislative bodies and other law-making authorities
PS 4183 Judicial Process: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Process and structure of the American legal system and the role of the judiciary
PS 4193 Mississippi Judicial System: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113). Three hours lecture. A study of the interrelationship of the actors within Mississippi's judicial system. Emphasis is placed on judicial decision-making, selection process, and resource allocation
PS 4203 Political Parties and Electoral Problems: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. The development and operation of American political parties, with special attention to electoral problems
PS 4213 Campaign Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Survey of the theory of political campaigns, the resources and techniques they employ, and their effects on voters
PS 4223 The Dynamics of American Democracy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Analysis of factors affecting the translation of public opinion into public policy within a national institutional context
PS 4233 Interest Groups: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. The study of the politics and practices of interest groups within the American political process
PS 4253 Southern Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Survey of the politics of the Confederate and border states, examination of party development, leadership, and impact of the South in national politics
PS 4263 Mississippi Government and Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. A study of the organization, powers, processes and politics of state government in Mississippi
PS 4273 African American Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113). Three hours lecture. The nature, processes, structures, and functions of African American politics in the domestic arena and international arena. (Same as AAS 4273)
PS 4283 Public Opinion: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. The nature of public opinion; the influence of the press; pressure groups and propaganda techniques; the means of political communication
PS 4293 Political Behavior: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Examination of the foundations and types of individual political activity; emphasis on psychological, social and cultural factors influencing personal political behavior
PS 4303 U.S. Foreign Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1313 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. An examination of the decision-making processes, institutions and structures that influence the formulation and execution of past and current U.S. foreign policy
PS 4313 Principles of International Law: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. The nature, sources and scope of international law as found in custom, international convention, the teachings of authoritative writers, and judicial decisions
PS 4323 International Organization: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. A study of the development of international organization and a concentration on the structure, processes and functions of the United Nations and its specialized agencies
PS 4333 Theories of International Relations: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. This course critically examines traditional and contemporary, normative and behavioral, qualitative and quantitative theories of international relations
PS 4343 International Conflict and Security: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Study of the patterns, causes, and consequences of armed conflict between nations
PS 4353 International Political Economy: 3 hours.
Prerequisite: PS 1313 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. This course will systematically address the relationship between politics and economics in an international context
PS 4363 International Peacekeeping and Post-Conflict Nation: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite:PS 1313 or PS 1513). An examination of peacekeeping operations with an emphasis on identifying reason for success or failure and on the role of international actors in rebuilding war-torn societies
PS 4383 National Security Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. An examination of those policies and issues affecting American national security with attention to the institutions, organizations and processes which shape them
PS 4393 The Global Context: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Examination of selected issues of current importance to international relations
PS 4403 Ancient & Medieval Political Theory: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Political philosophy from Plato and Aristotle through the Middle Ages
PS 4423 20th Century Political thought: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 2403 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. An examination of selected thinkers, text, and ideas in the history of political thought from the late 19th Century to the present
PS 4433 American Political Theory: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Major schools of political thought in America from the colonial to the contemporary period
PS 4453 Western Political Theory: Plato to Marx: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 or PS 2403). Three hours lecture. Chronological survey of central thinkers, texts, ideas, and movements in Western political thought from Plato to Marx
PS 4464 Political Analysis: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: 6 hours in political science). Three hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Philosophical and historical foundations of political analysis; constructing and executing research designs; measuring political phenomena; elementary methods of data analysis; games, models, and simulations
PS 4543 African Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. contemporary sub-Saharan Black Africa; prospects for political development or decay. Role of parties, bureaucracy and military and their relation to elite formation and political integration. (Same as AAS 4543)
PS 4553 Western European Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Governments of countries of Western Europe with emphasis upon England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain
PS 4593 Latin American Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Background, organization, and structure of the governments of the various Latin American countries
PS 4613 Civil Wars and Intra-State Conflicts: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing or greater, PS 1513, and/or Instructor Consent). Three hours lecture. This course examines the causes of intra-state conflicts in the modern world as well as possible solutions
PS 4623 Politics of the Third World: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Political processes of developing nations. Prospects for development and decline considered. Relationship between political, economic and cultural dimension during the process of social change
PS 4633 Democracy and Democratization: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1513). Three hours lecture. This course examines aspects of the evolution of democracy from its historical and conceptual origins to the present,explores democracy's classical definition and its understanding within modern political science, and considers efforts to measure democracy
PS 4643 Ethnic Conflict: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing, PS 1513, or Instructor Consent). This course will examine theories of ethno-genesis, the political significance of identity, and the ways that ethnicity impacts conflict processes
PS 4653 Nationalism: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing, PS 1513, or instructor consent). The course examines the theories underlying contemporary notions of nationalism and the ways that nationalist ideologies manifest in comparative politics
PS 4703 Principles of Public Administration: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Bureaucratic politics and power; administrative responsibility in a pluralist democracy; public administrative organization; public personnel administration; and public budgeting
PS 4743 Environmental Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113, PS 2703, or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. History, development, and practice of environmental policy in the United States
PS 4990 Special Topics in Political Science: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PS 6163 The Chief Executive: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Historical and comparative study of chief executives, including governors and mayors, with special emphasis on the Presidency
PS 6173 Legislative Process: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Organization, work, and procedure of legislative bodies and other law-making authorities
PS 6183 Judicial Process: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Process and structure of the American legal system and the role of the judiciary
PS 6193 Mississippi Judicial System: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113). Three hours lecture. A study of the interrelationship of the actors within Mississippi's judicial system. Emphasis is placed on judicial decision-making, selection process, and resource allocation
PS 6203 Political Parties and Electoral Problems: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. The development and operation of American political parties, with special attention to electoral problems
PS 6213 Campaign Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Survey of the theory of political campaigns, the resources and techniques they employ, and their effects on voters
PS 6223 The Dynamics of American Democracy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Analysis of factors affecting the translation of public opinion into public policy within a national institutional context
PS 6233 Interest Groups: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. The study of the politics and practices of interest groups within the American political process
PS 6253 Southern Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Survey of the politics of the Confederate and border states, examination of party development, leadership, and impact of the South in national politics
PS 6263 Mississippi Government and Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. A study of the organization, powers, processes and politics of state government in Mississippi
PS 6273 African American Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113). Three hours lecture. The nature, processes, structures, and functions of African American politics in the domestic arena and international arena. (Same as AAS 4273)
PS 6283 Public Opinion: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. The nature of public opinion; the influence of the press; pressure groups and propaganda techniques; the means of political communication
PS 6293 Political Behavior: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Examination of the foundations and types of individual political activity; emphasis on psychological, social and cultural factors influencing personal political behavior
PS 6303 US Foreign Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1313 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. An examination of the decision-making processes, institutions and structures that influence the formulation and execution of past and current U.S. foreign policy
PS 6313 Principles of International Law: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. The nature, sources and scope of international law as found in custom, international convention, the teachings of authoritative writers, and judicial decisions
PS 6323 International Organization: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. A study of the development of international organization and a concentration on the structure, processes and functions of the United Nations and its specialized agencies
PS 6333 Theories of International Relations: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. This course critically examines traditional and contemporary, normative and behavioral, qualitative and quantitative theories of international relations
PS 6343 International Conflict and Security: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Study of the patterns, causes, and consequences of armed conflict between nations
PS 6353 International Political Economy: 3 hours.
Prerequisite: PS 1313 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. This course will systematically address the relationship between politics and economics in an international context
PS 6363 International Peacekeeping and Post-Conflict Nation: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite:PS 1313 or PS 1513). An examination of peacekeeping operations with an emphasis on identifying reason for success or failure and on the role of international actors in rebuilding war-torn societies
PS 6383 National Security Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1313 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. An examination of those policies and issues affecting American national security with attention to the institutions, organizations and processes which shape them
PS 6393 The Global Context: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Examination of selected issues of current importance to international relations
PS 6403 Ancient Medieval Political Theory.: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Political philosophy from Plato and Aristotle through the Middle Ages
PS 6423 20th Century Political thought: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 2403 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. An examination of selected thinkers, text, and ideas in the history of political thought from the late 19th Century to the present
PS 6433 American Political Theory: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Major schools of political thought in America from the colonial to the contemporary period
PS 6453 Western Political Theory: Plato to Marx: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 or PS 2403). Three hours lecture. Chronological survey of central thinkers, texts, ideas, and movements in Western political thought from Plato to Marx
PS 6543 African Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. contemporary sub-Saharan Black Africa; prospects for political development or decay. Role of parties, bureaucracy and military and their relation to elite formation and political integration. (Same as AAS 4543)
PS 6553 Western European Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Governments of countries of Western Europe with emphasis upon England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain
PS 6593 Latin American Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Background, organization, and structure of the governments of the various Latin American countries
PS 6613 Civil Wars and Intra-State Conflicts: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing or greater, PS 1513, and/or Instructor Consent). Three hours lecture. This course examines the causes of intra-state conflicts in the modern world as well as possible solutions
PS 6623 Politics of the 3rd World: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1513 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Political processes of developing nations. Prospects for development and decline considered. Relationship between political, economic and cultural dimension during the process of social change
PS 6633 Democracy and Democratization: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1513). Three hours lecture. This course examines aspects of the evolution of democracy from its historical and conceptual origins to the present,explores democracy's classical definition and its understanding within modern political science, and considers efforts to measure democracy
PS 6643 Ethnic Conflict: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing, PS 1513, or Instructor Consent). This course will examine theories of ethno-genesis, the political significance of identity, and the ways that ethnicity impacts conflict processes
PS 6653 Nationalism: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Junior standing, PS 1513, or instructor consent). The course examines the theories underlying contemporary notions of nationalism and the ways that nationalist ideologies manifest in comparative politics
PS 6703 Principles of Public Administration: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PS 1113 and junior standing). Three hours lecture. Bureaucratic politics and power; administrative responsibility in a pluralist democracy; public administrative organization; public personnel administration; and public budgeting
PS 6743 Environmental Policy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 1113, PS 2703, or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. History, development, and practice of environmental policy in the United States
PS 6990 Special Topics in Political Science: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PS 7000 Directed Individual Study in Political Science: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
PS 8000 Thesis Research/ Thesis in Political Science: 1-13 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
PS 8523 Reading in Local Government and Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of instructor). Reading assigned material in state government and politics and making reports thereon under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty
PS 8533 Readings in National Government and Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of instructor). Reading assigned material in an appropriate subfield of national government and making reports thereon under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty
PS 8543 Readings in Comparative Government and Politics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of instructor). Reading assigned material in an appropriate subfield of comparative government and making reports thereon under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty
PS 8553 Readings in International Relations: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of instructor). Reading assigned material in an appropriate subfield of international relations and making reports thereon under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty
PS 8803 Research Methods in Public Affairs: 3 hours.
Stress on research designs and methods, survey research and other techniques and measuring data. focus on applied approaches for mathematically analyzing governmental data. (Same as PPA 8803)
PS 8903 Public Policy: 3 hours.
Nature, determinants, and effects of public goods and services; policy formulation and implementation; seminar emphasizes contemporary issues such as strategic planning, leadership, and managerial control. (Same as PPA 8903)
PS 8990 Special Topics in Political Science: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PS 9103 American Political Institutions: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Seminar addressing theoretical and empirical issues per- taining to the dynamics of American political institutions
Public Policy & Administration Courses
PPA 7000 Directed Individual Study in Political Science and Public Administration: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
PPA 8103 Seminar in Public Administration: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: consent of instructor). Detailed examination of the major elements of the field of public administration, with particular emphasis on emerging trends in the field
PPA 8123 State Government Administration: 3 hours.
Seminar in the practice and principles of state government administration, including judicial and legislative administration
PPA 8133 City and County Management: 3 hours.
Seminar focus on small town and county management in quasi-bureaucratic settings. Detailed consideration of problem solving capabilities as they relate to different forms of local government structure
PPA 8143 Civil Rights and Affirmative Action: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: consent of the instructor). A seminar which examines the various civil rights laws and acts and court decisions related to affirmative action in the workplace and public policy
PPA 8153 Seminar in Privatization: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Examination of the theoretical and practical issues of public-private partnerships
PPA 8183 Local Government Finance: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Local government finance principles including revenue policy and administration, budgeting, and financial management at the subnational level
PPA 8193 Seminar in Intergovernmental Relations: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: 9 hours of graduate work). Three hours lecture. Examines the current day functioning of the American federal system. Focuses upon national-state, national-local, interstate, state-local and interlocal relationships as well as fiscal federalism
PPA 8400 Public Administration Internship: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged. (Prerequisite: Consent of instructor). Individual work experience under faculty guidance in a governmental or public agency. Scholarly paper on approved topic required. Student evaluations are assigned on satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis
PPA 8653 Health Policy and the Health Policy Process: 3 hours.
Comprehensive review of health policy and the policy process in the U.S., illustrating how public policies affect the health care sector
PPA 8703 Government Organization and Administrative Theory: 3 hours.
Detailed survey of organization theories and managerial techniques as they relate to the public sector
PPA 8713 Public Personnel Management: 3 hours.
Course considers major developments in the issues and management practices affecting personnel such as affirmative action, unions, and civil service reforms
PPA 8723 Public Budgeting and Financial Management: 3 hours.
Analysis of current financial and budgetary techniques as they apply to the public sector. Capital budgeting, debt administration, and financial management
PPA 8733 Public Program Evaluation: 3 hours.
Techniques and analytical methods of assessing governmental program success. Special emphasis will be given to program designs, data collection and quantitative applications
PPA 8743 Administrative Law: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PS 4703/6703). Three hours lecture. An environmental study of the legal nature and effect of policies and attitudes of government toward business, especially the power and limitations of regulatory agencies
PPA 8763 Local Government Planning: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Introduction to the public management practice of planning with an emphasis on local government processes, politics and techniques for planning
PPA 8803 Research Methods for Public Affairs: 3 hours.
Stress on research designs and methods, survey research and other techniques and measuring data. Focus on applied approaches for mathematically analyzing governmental data. (Same as PS 8803)
PPA 8833 Systems in Public Administration: 3 hours.
(Prerquisite: BIS 1013, CS 1013, TKT 4273/6273, or equivalent). Three hours lecture. Role of automated, computer-based systems in govenment; their impact on the workplace, government institutions, and the governmental systems; selected topical applications
PPA 8903 Public Policy: 3 hours.
Nature, determinants, and effects of public goods and services; policy formulation and implementation; seminar emphasizes contemporary issues such as strategic planning, leadership, and managerial control. (Same as PS 8903)
PPA 8983 Integrative Capstone: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites:Consent of Instructor).Three hours lecture. A groups-based consulting project on an issue currently facing a governmental or nonprofit organization. (should be taken in terminal semester of degree program )
PPA 8990 Special Topics in Political Science and Public Administration: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
PPA 9000 Dissertation Research /Dissertation in Public Policy and Administration: 1-13 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
PPA 9103 American Political Institutions: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Seminar addressing theoretical and empirical issues pertaining to the dynamics of American political institutions. (Same as PS 9103)
PPA 9203 Constitutional and Political Framework of Public Administration.: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Examination of public administration from a constitutional perspective; social, political, historical, and institutional impact of governments in democratic societies
PPA 9303 Foundations of Public Administration: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Examination of the theory of public administration with emphasis on over-arching metaphors of public administration that often guide both theory and practice
PPA 9403 Comparative Public Administration: 3 hours.
Examination of the different ways public administration is practiced around the world
PPA 9413 Normative Analysis of American Public Policy: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Seminar exploring issues in American politics and public policy from a normative perspective. (Same as PS 9413)
PPA 9503 Qualitative Research for Public Affairs: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Examination of qualitative research, and the application of qualitative social research in public administration and public policy
PPA 9603 Scope of American Public Administration: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). Seminar dealing with historical background and development of American Public Administration as a discipline, and a review and analysis of current topics in the field
PPA 9613 Rural Government Administration I: Theoretical and Environmental Aspects: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). A seminar dealing with the principles of democratic theory as they affect the role of government and citizens' participation in government in rural settings
PPA 9623 Rural Government Administration II: Implementation Aspects: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). A seminar dealing with program implementation by rural and small town governments, including adoption and diffusion of management innovation by public administrators as change agents
PPA 9703 Organization Behavior in the Public Sector: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). Seminar dealing with major topics, issues, concerns of individual and group behavior in public organizations
PPA 9713 Administration of Human Resources in a Public Sector Environment: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). A seminar dealing with current basic research concerning management in the public sector environment
PPA 9723 Public Budgeting Processes and Their Policy Implications: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor). A seminar dealing with norms and behaviors of budget process participants, their impact on budget policy and implications of budget actions for democratic government
PPA 9803 Multivariate Analysis and Design for Public Affairs: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). A seminar dealing with public policy formulation, implementation and evaluation which stresses the theoretical aspects of policy processes
PPA 9813 Advanced Quantitative Analysis for Public Affairs: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: PPA 9803 or consent of instructor).Three hours lecture. Examination and application of advanced statistical techniques for quantitative research in public affairs
PPA 9893 American Political Behavior: 3 hours.
(Prerequsite: PPA 9803 and consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Seminar in American political behavior including public opinion, socialization, participation, and voting behavior. (Same as PS 9893)
PPA 9903 Public Policy Formulation and Implementation: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor). A seminar dealing with public policy formulation implementation and evaluation which stresses the theoretical aspects of policy processes
PPA 9993 Research Design and Philosophy of Science: 3 hours.
Three hours lecturs. A hands on examination of applied and theoretical approaches to research design in public policy research