Government (GOV) & International Affairs (INTL)
The Department of Government & International Affairs offers each student a foundational understanding of government and politics at all levels, and preparation for leadership in the community, nation and world. The department builds on Wofford's broad liberal education by challenging students to deliberate on a diversity of ideas of justice, experiences of politics, and structures of power. Graduates can creatively confront the latest problem or debate, while rooted in a deep appreciation of our cultural, intellectual and political heritage.
Majors are offered in Government and International Affairs. Students majoring in Government have the option to select concentrations in American Politics or Political Theory. Additionally, the International Affairs major offers an optional global linking experience. Minors are also offered in both Government and International Affairs.
Honors Courses
The Department of Government encourages its students to undertake honors work. For further information, students should review the section on Honors Courses in this Catalog.
Chair
Rachel J. Vanderhill
Professors
J. David Alvis
William E. DeMars
Samuel A. Fontaine
Victoria J. Gilbert
Robert C. Jeffrey
For both the Government and International Affairs majors, GOV 202 Foundations of American Politics and INTL 203 Foundations of World Politics should be completed, each with a grade of 'C' or better, before a student declares the major.
Requirements for the Major in Government
The major in Government offers a broad range of courses in American Politics, Political Theory and International Affairs, with considerable freedom to select courses and tailor an individual program. Students may pursue the major alone, or one of two optional five-course concentrations within the major: the Concentration in American Politics or the Concentration in Political Theory.
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Major Courses | 6 | |
| Foundations of American Politics | ||
| Foundations of World Politics | ||
| America in the World | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| Comparing States & Societies | ||
| American Foreign Policy | ||
| America and Global Economy | ||
| American Politics | 6 | |
| Select two courses from the following: | ||
| American Political Development I | ||
| American Political Development II | ||
| Leadership & Globalization in South Carolina | ||
| South Carolina Politics | ||
| Southern Politics | ||
| African American Politics | ||
| Health Care Policy & Administration | ||
| Constitutional Law of the United States | ||
| The American Presidency | ||
| US Congress | ||
| American Political Thought | ||
| Advanced Topics in American Government | ||
| Political Theory | 6 | |
| Select two courses from the following: | ||
| Classical Political Thought | ||
| Modern Political Thought | ||
| Statesmanship of Lincoln | ||
| Statesmanship of Winston Churchill | ||
| Politics and Literature | ||
| American Political Thought | ||
| Advanced Topics in Political Theory | ||
| Electives | 9 | |
Select 9 credit hours from GOV and/or INTL at the 300- and 400-level and INTL 260 | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Requirements for the Major in Government with a Concentration in American Politics
The Government major with a Concentration in American Politics offers students a broad understanding of the development of ideas, institutions and leadership in the American political system, as well as the policy debates that have shaped our political life. With this knowledge, students will be prepared to analyze contemporary policy and constitutional controversies, to pursue advanced degrees or careers in policy, politics, law, and public service, and to be engaged and active citizens. Students are encouraged to intern in government offices or non-profit organizations, or to volunteer in political campaigns.
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Major Courses | 6 | |
| Foundations of American Politics | ||
| Foundations of World Politics | ||
| America in the World | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| Comparing States & Societies | ||
| American Foreign Policy | ||
| America and Global Economy | ||
| American Politics Core | 6 | |
| American Political Development I | ||
| American Political Development II | ||
| Federal Government Institutions | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| Constitutional Law of the United States | ||
| The American Presidency | ||
| US Congress | ||
| American Political Theory | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| Modern Political Thought | ||
| Statesmanship of Lincoln | ||
| American Political Thought | ||
| Policy and Regional Politics | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| Leadership & Globalization in South Carolina | ||
| South Carolina Politics | ||
| Southern Politics | ||
| African American Politics | ||
| Health Care Policy & Administration | ||
| Problems in US Environmental Policy | ||
| Electives | 6 | |
Select 6 credit hours from GOV and/or INTL at the 300- and 400-level and INTL 260 | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Requirements for the Major in Government with a Concentration in Political Theory
In the Government major with a Concentration in Political Theory, students will read and master the fundamental works of the western political tradition—works that were formative in the education of the American founders. Students will also study statesmanship, in which leaders are challenged to preserve democracy in periods of extreme crisis, will learn how poetry and literature can convey political wisdom, and will explore contemporary debates in political theory. This concentration is excellent preparation for public life, for graduate study in law, political science or other fields, and for well-lived private lives.
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Major Courses | 6 | |
| Foundations of American Politics | ||
| Foundations of World Politics | ||
| America in the World | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| Comparing States & Societies | ||
| American Foreign Policy | ||
| America and Global Economy | ||
| Political Theory Core | 6 | |
| Classical Political Thought | ||
| Modern Political Thought | ||
| Political Theory Electives | 9 | |
| Select three courses from the following: | ||
| Statesmanship of Lincoln | ||
| Statesmanship of Winston Churchill | ||
| Politics and Literature | ||
| American Political Thought | ||
| Advanced Topics in Political Theory | ||
| Electives | 6 | |
Select 6 credit hours from GOV and/or INTL at the 300- and 400-level and INTL 260 | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Requirements for the Major in International Affairs
The major in International Affairs offers students the opportunity to combine essential global learning with personalized, real-world experience. Students will take in-depth courses in war and conflict, foreign policy, international political economy, international institutions, and at least one world region.
We strongly recommend that, in addition to fulfilling the requirements for the major, students also pursue semester long study abroad, foreign language study, or an internship. We also encourage students to double major or add a minor as a wide diversity of training and experiences is valuable to the field of International Affairs.
Combined with recommended study abroad, language opportunities, internships, or other majors, the International Affairs Major provides students with powerful preparation for a life and career of constructive interaction with a rapidly changing world.
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Major Courses | 9 | |
| Foundations of American Politics | ||
| Foundations of World Politics | ||
| Senior Seminar | ||
| Core Competencies | 9 | |
| Select three course from the following: | ||
| Comparing States & Societies | ||
| American Foreign Policy | ||
| War and Conflict | ||
| Politics of the United Nations | ||
| America and Global Economy | ||
| Regional Politics | 3 | |
| Select one course from the following: | ||
| European Politics | ||
| Middle East Politics | ||
| Chinese Politics | ||
| African Politics | ||
| Russia & Its Neighbors | ||
| Electives 1 | 9 | |
Select 9 credit hours from INTL 260 or any GOV or INTL course at the 300- or 400-level | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
- 1
A maximum of two GOV courses may be applied to the International Affairs major electives. With the exception of INTL 203, courses taken in fulfillment of the International Affairs major may NOT also be applied to the Government major or minor.
Requirements for the Minor in Government
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Course | 3 | |
| Foundations of American Politics | ||
| Government Electives 1 | 15 | |
Select an additional 15 credit hours of Government (GOV) courses | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Requirements for the Minor in International Affairs
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Course | 3 | |
| Foundations of World Politics | ||
| International Affairs Electives 2 | 15 | |
Select an additional 15 credit hours of International Affairs (INTL) courses | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
- 1
One INTL course may be applied to the Government minor. With the exception of GOV 202, courses taken in fulfillment of the Government minor may NOT also be applied to the International Affairs major or minor.
- 2
One GOV course may be applied to the International Affairs minor. With the exception of INTL 203, courses taken in fulfillment of the International Affairs minor may NOT also be applied to the Government major or minor.
Government (GOV)
GOV 202. Foundations of American Politics. 3 Hours.
An introduction to American national government emphasizing constitutional principles and the historical development of institutions and processes.
GOV 280. Selected Topics in Government. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in Government at the introductory or intermediate level.
GOV 310. American Political Development I. 3 Hours.
This is the first in a two course series in American Political Development, a subfield of Political Science dedicated to analyzing and explaining key transformative changes in the American political system including citizenship, political institutions, and political parties and movements. American Political Development I examines this evolution from the Founding to the Era of Reconstruction.
GOV 311. American Political Development II. 3 Hours.
This is the second in a two course series in American Political Development, a subfield of Political Science dedicated to analyzing and explaining key transformative changes in the American political system including citizenship, political institutions, and political parties and movements. American Political Development II examines this evolution from the Progressive Era (early 1900s) to today.
Prerequisite: GOV 310 with a minimum grade of D.
GOV 320. Leadership & Globalization in South Carolina. 3 Hours.
Students will learn how South Carolina is shaped by its global connections of culture, work and politics, and how leaders in all these fields attempt to shape those forces and with what results. Students will integrate a wide range of encounters with leaders, experiences, readings, teachings, films and student projects.
GOV 330. South Carolina Politics. 3 Hours.
This course will explore the political structure, political history and culture, and current issues in South Carolina.
GOV 333. Southern Politics. 3 Hours.
This course examines the political culture, historical background, and current trends in the politics of the American South. The course consists of reading, discussion, lectures, and presentations by members of the seminar.
GOV 335. African American Politics. 3 Hours.
American political life is defined by two fundamental commitments: democracy and the protection of individual rights. The most notable conflicts in our nation's history have been those where the desires of a majority impede the rights of a minority. This course examines the struggle of African Americans for equal rights by studying both the political and civil rights movements, and also the legal battles for racial equality in the courts.
GOV 345. Health Care Policy & Administration. 3 Hours.
This course provides an overview of the U.S. health care system, its internal administration, and the evolution of federal and state policy. We focus on the political dynamics of public health care, and particularly on administration and policy formulation as it affects private insurers, Medicare and Medicaid, and changes wrought by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The course draws on lectures by experts in the public health sector and examines the growing body of administrative and public policy literature in this area. No disciplinary background is assumed, nor is any special familiarity with the field of health care required.
GOV 380. Selected Topics in Government. 1 to 3 Hours.
Seminars on selected topics in Government offered on an occasional basis.
GOV 391. Classical Political Thought. 3 Hours.
A study of the political philosophy of the ancients through close reading and discussion of selected texts of the major authors.
GOV 392. Modern Political Thought. 3 Hours.
A study of the political philosophy of the moderns through close reading and discussion of selected texts of the major authors beginning with Machiavelli.
GOV 411. Constitutional Law of the United States. 3 Hours.
An overview of the major areas of American constitutional law emphasizing the
reading and analysis of cases and the natural and common law background of the
Constitution.
GOV 431. The American Presidency. 3 Hours.
An examination of the sources of and constraints on Presidential authority, of the roles of the President in the United States and the world, and of the organization of the office and its advisory institutions and its relations with Congress and the Judiciary.
GOV 432. US Congress. 3 Hours.
An introduction to the U.S. Congress as one of the three main branches of American government. Topics include: the evolution of Congress into the organization that currently exists, congressional elections, constituencies and how members rep-resent them, the rules, norms, and powers of individuals and the institution, the legislative process, and Congress? interaction with other actors in the American political system.
GOV 434. Statesmanship of Lincoln. 3 Hours.
A study of Abraham Lincoln?s entire political career with the aim of coming to an informed critical judgment about his political prudence and moderation in preserving and improving American constitutional democracy.
GOV 436. Statesmanship of Winston Churchill. 3 Hours.
A study of statesmanship through the career of Winston S. Churchill.
GOV 437. Politics and Literature. 3 Hours.
The teachings of the greatest poets about politics.
GOV 440. American Political Thought. 3 Hours.
An examination of the origin and development of major American political ideas as
revealed in political essays, letters, and novels.
GOV 450. Senior Directed Study. 1 to 3 Hours.
Intensive guided study and research on selected topics in any field of political science. The instructor, in consultation with the student, will establish the subject for study and the requirements. Enrollment normally is limited to seniors majoring in Government who are of high academic standing.
GOV 470. Independent Study in Government. 1 to 3 Hours.
Independent study of selected topics in government at an advanced level. Specific topics vary from semester to semester.
GOV 480. Advanced Topics in American Government. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in the functions, policies, organization, and theory of American government. Subject matter varies.
GOV 490. Advanced Topics in International Relations and Comparative Government. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in international politics and comparative politics. Subject matter varies.
GOV 495. Advanced Topics in Political Theory. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in political theory. Subject may vary from semester to semester.
GOV 500. Honors Course. 3 Hours.
At the discretion of the faculty, students may undertake a six-hour independent course of study in the senior year in order to broaden their educational experience within their major area of study. Students must meet specific GPA standards and arrange a faculty sponsor. The honors course criteria are outlined in the Academic Honors portion of the catalog.
International Affairs (INTL)
INTL 203. Foundations of World Politics. 3 Hours.
A historical, philosophical, and topical foundation in international relations and
comparative politics, and an introduction to essential research skills.
INTL 260. Comparing States & Societies. 3 Hours.
An examination of the major questions in comparative politics. Emphasis is placed on the political systems and unique histories and economic situations of Iran, China, India, Nigeria, and Russia.
INTL 280. Selected Topics in International Affairs. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in international affairs at the introductory or intermediate level.
INTL 320. American Foreign Policy. 3 Hours.
A study of the forces and factors involved in the formulation and implementation of contemporary United States policy.
INTL 321. War and Conflict. 3 Hours.
Examination of the origins and dynamics of war and conflict through historical and contemporary examples from around the world. Topics include: causes of war, insurgency and counter-insurgency, role of gender, and conflict resolution. Additionally, the future of war and what conflict may look like in the coming century will also be discussed.
INTL 324. Politics of the United Nations. 3 Hours.
A study of the evolution of the United Nations, its activities and impact, its use and misuse by member states and other actors, how both the world and the United States need the UN, and the potential for UN adaptation to change.
INTL 325. America and Global Economy. 3 Hours.
Survey of the politics of the global economy with emphasis on historical developments, concepts, theoretical perspectives, institutions, and contemporary topics. Substantial emphasis is placed on America's role in the global economy, though other economic powers, including the European Union, China, Japan, and India are also examined.
INTL 360. European Politics. 3 Hours.
A study of the politics of selected European states in historical perspective. Other
topics in European politics may also be covered.
INTL 361. Middle East Politics. 3 Hours.
A study of the contemporary domestic and international politics of the Middle East. Topics include: democracy and its challenges; the role of national, religious, and ethnic identities; the origins of modern Middle Eastern states; and the involvement of non-Middle Eastern states in the region's politics.
INTL 362. Chinese Politics. 3 Hours.
A survey of the rise of modern China as a major power, with particular emphasis on its politics, economy, and foreign relations.
INTL 363. African Politics. 3 Hours.
Explores the internal and international politics of sub-Saharan Africa within its rich cultural, economic, humanitarian, and historical contexts, and also addresses special issues such as failed states, humanitarian intervention, HIV/AIDS and other health issues, and demographic trends specific to Africa.
INTL 364. Russia & Its Neighbors. 3 Hours.
This course will examine the politics, economics, and foreign policy of Russia and other postcommunist states in Central Asia and Europe. The class will investigate the relationship between Russia and its neighbors, the common experience of communism and postcommunism, and questions about democracy and authoritarianism. Along with studying Russia in detail, we will also examine cases of successful political and economic transition, cases of failed political transitions, and inconclusive cases.
INTL 380. Selected Topics in International Affairs. 1 to 4 Hours.
Seminars on selected topics in International Affairs offered on an occasional basis.
INTL 381. The Bomb: Nuclear Weapons Past, Present and Future. 3 Hours.
This course will provide a survey of the historical, development, deployment, spread and control of nuclear weapons worldwide, and will examine the evolving contemporary debate on their significance, potential uses, and the means for restraining their further proliferation.
INTL 382. Global Issues. 3 Hours.
A study of major global issues, such as Third World poverty, the population explosion, hunger in the poor countries and food consumption in the rich countries, energy use and supplies, environmental deterioration, the appropriate and inappropriate uses of technology, and alternative futures.
INTL 383. Revolutions & Regime Change. 3 Hours.
This class will examine the causes and effects of revolutions and regime transitions. In order to understand the complexities and nuances of revolutions and transitions, we will study cases from the 2011 Arab Spring and other regions, including East Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The multi-region approach allows for cross-cultural testing of the theories of regime change and a more nuanced investigation of the causes and consequences of major political, economic, and social change.
INTL 423. NGOs in World Politics. 3 Hours.
An exploration of the changing roles and influence of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in world politics, with case studies including human rights, hunger relief, environmentalism, population control, women's rights, democratization, peacemaking, and inter-religious dialogue.
INTL 426. Ethnicity, Race, and Nationalism in a Comparative Perspective. 3 Hours.
Exploration of nation, ethnicity, and race and the profound impact the relationship of these categories have on the political and social lives of those in the areas of study. The categories will be considered from a comparative perspective, analyzing cases from around the world such as the United States, Israel, and South Africa.
INTL 450. Senior Directed Study. 1 to 3 Hours.
Intensive guided study and research on selected topics in any field of international affairs. The instructor, in consultation with the student, will establish the subject for study and the requirements. Enrollment normally is limited to seniors majoring in Government or International Affairs who are of high academic standing.
INTL 470. Independent Study in International Affairs. 1 to 3 Hours.
Independent study of selected topics in international affairs at an advanced level. Specific topics vary from semester to semester.
INTL 477. Senior Seminar. 3 Hours.
Required of all seniors majoring in International Affairs, this course will provide a discussion of selected theoretical and policy literature from international relations and/or comparative politics. It may also explore a particular theme in modern world affairs, which will vary from year to year. International Affairs majors who pursue the Global Linking Experience will evaluate and document it in a research or creative project, while other students will complete an alternative assignment.
INTL 480. Advanced Topics in International Affairs. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in international affairs at advanced level.
INTL 490. Advanced Topics in International Affairs and Comparative Government. 1 to 4 Hours.
Selected topics in international and comparative politics. Subject matter varies.
INTL 500. Honors Course. 3 Hours.
At the discretion of the faculty, students may undertake a six-hour independent course of study in the senior year in order to broaden their educational experience within their major area of study. Students must meet specific GPA standards and arrange a faculty sponsor. The honors course criteria are outlined in the Academic Honors portion of the catalog.