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National College Credit Recommendation Service

Board of Regents  |  University of the State of New York

National Paralegal College | Evaluated Learning Experience

American Government (GOV-201)

Length: 

Varies; self-study format.

Location: 
Various, distance learning format.
Dates: 
November 2010 - Present.
Instructional delivery format: 
Online/distance learning
Learner Outcomes: 

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: describe how American democracy functions; detail the history and debates surrounding the Constitution; understand the genesis of the protection of civil liberties and civil rights; explain how mass media impact the political process; cite examples and explanations of how Americans participate in politics; identify the roles and operations of political parties; discuss the Electoral College and its criticisms; define special interest groups and lobbies and how they work; assess the effects of the interplay between the President and Congress with respect to how laws are enacted; explicate the role of the Federal Judicial System; define the challenges for policymaking in the 21st century; join the debate over healthcare as public policy; and discuss and classify the latest threats to national security.

Instruction: 

This introductory course in American Government provides a basic understanding of the American political process. The primary focus is on the individuals, groups, and institutions who form and inform the federal government and how laws have evolved. Students learn how government functions at the national, state, and local levels and come to understand the workings of participatory democracy. Students are encouraged to become active contributors to the political system by learning how government impacts their lives and how they can make a difference in the lives of others. Major topics include: The United States Constitution; Federal Judicial System; lobbying and special interest groups; and the roles and relationships among the President, Congress, and court systems. Evaluation criteria include: required readings, essay assignments, class participation, and final exam.

Credit recommendation: 

In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in American Government or Introduction to American Politics (1/13) (3/18 revalidation). 

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