PLSC 112 - The Road to the White House

(3 credits)

Course focuses on the current presidential campaign but also deals with rules, structures, procedures, and strategies to help students understand future elections as well. The course covers four main areas: 1) the election arena (history, campaign finance, voting patterns, etc.); 2) the nomination stage (delegate selection, party conventions, etc.); 3) the presidential campaign (tactics, image building, advertising, etc.); and 4) the general election (the Electoral University, reforms, “mandates,” etc.). Seminar format. Debates and simulations used. Active participation in on-campus Mock National Convention required. Prerequisite: PLSC 102 or consent of instructor. Spring, even-numbered years.