Consortium for International Studies | Evaluated Learning Experience
Comparing Political Systems POL 201
Varies; self-study.
October 2022 – Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: assess the benefits of comparing political systems, states and institutions; appreciate the comparative method and the different approaches to comparison, both qualitative and quantitative; identify the five defining qualities of a state; describe the concept of political culture, and the influences that shape how political culture is defined and measured; compare and contrast democratic and authoritarian political systems and the challenges they face; differentiate between the different institutions of government and politics; evaluate the rapidly changing role of media in the political process; distinguish the diverse means of citizen participation in different political systems; assess the advantages and disadvantages of different electoral systems used in elections for legislatures; evaluate the core roles and forms of political parties and interest groups in shaping public policy; evaluate the relationship between politics and economics.
Major topics taught in this course include: the various forms of government and politics, the different types of electoral systems, and the influences in political culture.
In the lower division baccalaureate / associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Political Science or General Education elective (7/22).