Mount Allison University Campus

Academic Calendar 2023-2024

Table of Contents

Politics and International Relations

The Politics and International Relations Department offers three degree programs: a B.A. in Political Science, a B.A. in International Relations, and a B.A. in Canadian Public Policy.

The Political Science BA program is designed for students who are interested in the study of politics. The study of politics is concerned with the nature and workings of power, state, and government; the rights and duties of citizenship; the limits and possibilities of collective political action; and the social, economic, and cultural formations that shape the life of the political community. The scope of inquiry is local, national, and international; it includes the empirical analysis of individuals, groups, institutions, and processes as well as the investigation of long-standing philosophical questions concerning human nature, freedom, democracy, and justice.

The Political Science program is organized into four main subfields: Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics, International Politics, and Political Theory. The program offers students the opportunity to gain a strong foundation in all four subfields and to combine empirical, practical, and theoretical approaches in each year of study. In addition to the Canadian Politics subfield, students can take specialized area courses in Africa, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Political Science students who seek a more intensive concentration in one particular subfield can integrate courses from other programs in Canadian Studies, International Relations, History, and Philosophy.

The International Relations BA program is designed for students who are interested in an inter-disciplinary approach to international and global studies. International and global studies are concerned with the interconnections between state as well as non-state organizations and actors, the globalizing effects of economic, social, technological, environmental, military, and political processes, and with emerging issues of justice, responsibility, and human well-being that are international and global in scope.

The International Relations program operates as an inter- and multi-disciplinary degree program in which core as well as elective courses are drawn from a range of disciplines such as political science, history, modern languages and literatures, sociology, anthropology, economics, geography, environmental studies, and women's and gender studies. The program provides students with a broad range of intellectual and critical skills for analyzing the interactions between political and economic systems, cultural norms, environmental dynamics, and hierarchies of power. A university-level language requirement anchors the program. To supplement their coursework students are encouraged to gain international experience by studying or working abroad or by doing international work in Canada.

Public policy has long been defined as whatever governments choose to do or not to do in response to a problem. It involves conscious choices made in the public interest and shaped by current ideas, the institutional context, policy actors and economics. The Canadian Public Policy program incorporates these elements by focusing on government decision making. This involves understanding the public policy process, policy analysis, intergovernmental relations, economic forces and political considerations. Throughout the process students engage with contemporary and historical issues to critically assess the inclusiveness, fairness and effectiveness of public policy making given time and resource constraints. The Canadian Public Policy program is inter and multi-disciplinary with students completing a common core set of courses anchored in political science and economics. To develop and deepen their interest, students then select optional streams drawn from the disciplines of Canadian studies, commerce, economics, geography and environment, history, French, political science, sociology or statistics. The Canadian Public Policy program prepares students for potential careers in the public service (local, provincial, federal) and non-governmental organizations working as policy analysts and program managers or in the private sector working as policy consultants, research analysts and knowledge brokers. Key skills learned include critical thinking (policy analysis, policy process knowledge, public service norms), writing (policy analysis reports, policy briefs, cabinet memos) and communication (written, oral, online).

Political Science 1001: Foundations of Politics is the normal prerequisite for all second year Political Science courses and for the second year International Relations course. Students should consult their program advisor in Political Science or International Relations for additional information.

Interdisciplinary B.A. Programs

MAJOR in International Relations is 60 credits as follows:

Core (42 credits as follows):

6from POLS 1001 and INLR/POLS 2301
3from POLS at the 2000 level
3from the POLS 3300 series
9from INLR at the 3000 or 4000 level
6from ECON 1001, 1011
3from ECON 3301, 3401, 3501, 3801, 3901, 3921, 4531, 4551
12from FREN 1651, 1701, 1711, 2401, 2501, 2601, 3101, 3111, 3131; or from GERM 1001, 1011, 2001, 2011, 3001, 3401, 3501; or from JAPA 1001, 1011, 2001, 2011; or from SPAN 1101, 1111, 2101, 2111, 3101, 3111, 3060

Optional Streams (18 credits)

18

Choose 9 credits from each of two of the following streams:

ECON 3301, 3401, 3501, 3801, 3901, 3921, 4531, 4551
ENGL 3751, 3761, 3771, 3781, 3921, 4941
GENV 3101, 3201, 3321, 3831, 4101, 4111, 4211, 4301, 4811, 4821
HIST 3001, 3021, 3031, 3121, 3141, 3161, 3231, 3241, 3301, 3311, 3321, 3331, 3381, 3461, 3721, 3761, 4300, 4321, 4701
POLS 3011, 3200, 3211, 3221, 3231, 3301, 3311, 3321, 3331, 3341, 3351, 3361, 4121, 4200, 4211, 4300, 4310, 4321
RELG 3001, 3101, 3301, 3311, 3411, 3501, 3601, 3701, 3811, 3891, 3921, 3941, 3981, 4401, 4411, 4421, 4611, 4821
SOCI 3431, 3551, 3561, 3711, 4501, 4511,4551, 4561

Note:

  1. Students are responsible for ensuring that they have prerequisites for third and fourth year courses in the elective streams.

  2. A student may choose to include up to 6 credits at the 3/4000 level not explicitly included in any of the Elective Streams provided prior approval is granted by the Program Advisor.

  3. Students may substitute university-level courses in another language approved by the International Relations Program Advisor.

  4. Students who complete this Major may not complete a Minor in International Politics.

HONOURS in International Relations is 72 credits as follows:

60credits as in the Major, plus
6from the 4000 level in one of the elective streams chosen for the Major
6from INLR at the 4000 level

MINOR in International Politics is 24 credits earned as follows:

3from POLS 1001
3from POLS 2301
3from POLS at the 2000 level
6from one of FREN/GERM/JAPA/SPAN (as listed in the IR major) or from ECON 1001 and 1011
9from any POLS 33/4300 series

MINOR in Canadian Public Policy is 24 credits earned as follows:

9from POLS 1001, 2101, 3141
6from ECON 1001, 1011
3from ECON 2301, 2311
6from 3/4000 level courses in one of the streams listed under the Major in Canadian Public Policy

MAJOR in Canadian Public Policy is 60 credits earned as follows:

9from POLS 1001, 2101, 3141
3from POLS 2001, 2211, 2221
6from POLS 3031, 3101, 3111, 3121, 3211, 4111
6from ECON 1001, 1011
12from ECON 2301, 2311, 3101, 3111, 3201, 3211, 3601, 3801
24from Optional Streams. Choose 12 credits from each of two of the following streams with at least 6 credits in each stream at the 3/4000 level
Canadian Studies:
CANA 2121, 2431, 3111, 3301, 3401, 3421, 3821, either 3831 or 3841, 4111, 4301
Commerce:
COMM 2101, 2121, 2131, 2301, 2311, 3161, 3321, 3391, 3501, 3611
Economics (choose 12 credits not counted in the Core):
ECON 2301, 2311, 3101, 3111, 3201, 3211, 3401, 3601, 3711, 3721, 3801, 3821, 4501
French:
FREN 2401, 2501, 2601, 3101, 3111, 3131
Geography and Environmental Studies:
GENV 2101, 3101, 3111, 3201, 3211, 4111, 4201, 4211
History:
HIST 3401, 3431, 3441, 3461, 3471, 3491, 3811, 4411, 4441, 4461
Political Science (choose 12 credits not counted in the Core):
POLS 3031, 3101, 3111, 3121, 3151, 3211, 3351, 4111, 4121, 4141, 4161
INLR 4201
Sociology:
SOCI 2111, 2121, 2401, 2611, 3511, 3551, 3701, 3711, 3781, 4201
Statistics:
ECON 1701, 2701, 3401, 4711, 4721
MATH 1311, 2321, 3151, 3311, 3531, 4311

Note:  Students are responsible for ensuring that they have prerequisites for 3/4000 level courses in the optional streams

Disciplinary B.A. Programs

MINOR in Political Science is 24 credits earned as follows:

3from POLS 1001
6-12from Political Science at the 2000 level
9-15from Political Science 3000/4000 level

Note:  At least 3 credits in the minor must be taken from two of the four sub-disciplines in Political Science corresponding with the series numbers for Political Theory (20/30/40), Canadian Politics (21/31/41), Comparative Politics (22/32/42) and International Politics (23/33/43)

MAJOR in Political Science is 60 credits earned as follows:

3from POLS 1001
39from Political Science 2/3/4000 level, 6 to 9 of these credits may be taken at the 2000 level. At least three credits at the 3/4000 level must be taken from each of the four sub-disciplines in Political Science corresponding with the series numbers for Political Theory (30/40), Canadian Politics (31/41), Comparative Politics (32/42) and International Politics (33/43)
18credits from complementary courses in Arts & Letters, Humanities and Social Sciences, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor

HONOURS (Course Option) in Political Science is 72 credits earned as follows:

3from POLS 1001
57credits from Political Science 2/3/4000 level. At least six credits at the 3/4000 level must be taken from each of the four sub-fields in Political Science (corresponding with the series numbers for Political Theory (30/40), Canadian Politics (31/41) Comparative Politics (32/42), and International Politics (33/43)
12credits from complementary courses in Arts & Letters, Humanities and Social Sciences, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor

HONOURS (Thesis Option) in Political Science is 72 credits earned as follows:

3from POLS 1001
51credits from Political Science 2/3/4000 level. At least six credits at the 3/4000 level must be taken from each of the four sub-fields in Political Science (corresponding with the series numbers for Political Theory (30/40), Canadian Politics (31/41) Comparative Politics (32/42), and International Politics (33/43)
6credits from Political Science 4990
12credits from complementary courses in Arts & Letters, Humanities and Social Sciences, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor

Note:  Students are encouraged to complete ECON 3401 as part of their complementary courses

Note:  Students are responsible for ensuring that they have prerequisites for third and fourth year complementary courses.

POLITICS AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS COURSES

Note:  The listing of a course in the Calendar is not a guarantee that the course is offered every year.

Note:  Students must obtain a grade of at least C- in all courses used to fulfill prerequisite requirements. Otherwise, written permission of the appropriate Department Head or Program Co-ordinator must be obtained.

INLR COURSES

Special Topic in International Relations

This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for INLR 1991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

Introduction to International Relations

Prereq: POLS 1001; or permission of the Department
This course introduces several of the major theories, structures, processes, and issues in international relations. After introducing the current theoretical approaches to the study of global politics, the course addresses a series of topics from among the following: systems of global governance; the concept 'terrorism'; non-state actors in global politics such as corporations, social movements, and non-governmental organizations; human rights and human security; gender and international politics; poverty, 'development', and inequality; and the environment. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 2301 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of INLR/POLS 2301 previously offered with a different title)

Special Topic in International Relations

This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for INLR 2991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

Gender and International Relations

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course examines the highly gendered nature of international relations. Topics include: the seeming invisibility of women in the study of international affairs and within international decision-making, the existence of differential international "packages of expectations" concerning the roles of men and women, competing dominant and subordinate masculinities and femininities, the struggle for women's empowerment, and the gendered impact of globalization processes. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Problems in International Development

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course focuses on leading issues in international development from an international relations perspective. Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Global Governance

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course examines the role of international organizations in International Relations with a focus on the United Nations. It addresses the challenges of multilateral diplomacy in the age of globalization and U.S. supremacy. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 3301 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: INLR 3101)

International Political Economy

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course surveys the critical International Political Economy (IPE) tradition in the study of International Relations, from Marx and Polanyi to Cox and Strange. As a critique of realism and liberalism, IPE posits the inseparability of the domestic and international realms, of the political and economic spheres, as well as of state and society. It examines the impact of globalization and environmental change on states in the global order. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 3311 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: INLR 3401)

Foreign Policy Analysis

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course introduces key theories in the study of foreign policy-making. It explores the role of individual decision-makers, interest-groups, economics, bureaucratic politics, and regime types. It also examines how constraints and opportunities in the international system shape foreign policy choices. It analyzes foreign policy in the context of both developed and developing states and considers a variety of different foreign policy issues. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 3351 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Global Capitalism

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course provides a critical analysis of global capitalism by drawing on a range of contemporary perspectives regarding the way global capitalism operates. The course also presents an analysis of selected contemporary alternatives to capitalism, and their potential to alleviate poverty on a local and/or global scale. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 3361 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: INLR 3991 Global Capitalism)

Special Topic in International Relations

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for INLR 3991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

Global Governance Simulation

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; INLR/POLS 3301; enrolment is restricted to Honours students or by permission of the Department
This course engages students in an innovative and intensive simulation of an international conflict or crisis in order to highlight the challenges of international decision-making in multilateral forums. It draws case studies from the United Nations and other international organizations, or from disputes among states and non-state actors. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Canada, Globalization, and International Development

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; 3 credits from INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course critically evaluates the relationships between various Canadian actors and the so-called 'developing' world, historically and in the contemporary period. Through the use of country case studies this course investigates issues involving Canadian overseas development assistance, and the role played by Canadian corporations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in selected countries. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of INLR 4701 offered with a similar title)

The Arab Spring

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course explores the impact of the Arab Spring on the practice of authoritarian politics in the Middle East. It examines theoretical debates about the role of political culture, political economy, state-building and political liberalization. Case studies examine strategies used to manage, co-opt and/or coerce political opposition and civil society, as well as why some regimes eventually allowed transitions to take place, while others relied on repression even if it meant civil war. Finally, the impact of regional conflicts and rivalries is considered along with the influence of the United States. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed with POLS 4221 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 4991 Arab Spring)

Global Civil Society

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; 3 credits from INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course engages students in an advanced analysis of the concept Global Civil Society. It begins by exploring various theoretical approaches to understanding and employing this concept and proceeds to analysis of several issues confronted by Global-Civil-Society actors. Such issues may include: the World Social Forum (WSF); the campaign to ban landmines; anti-capitalist organizing; and the question of violence in achieving social change. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of INLR 4701 offered with a similar title)

International Relations Theory

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course provides an advanced analysis of major theories of International Relations. It may include theories of realism, liberalism, constructivism, Marxism, feminism, poststructuralism, and postcolonialism. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 4310 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Security and Development in the Global South

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the relationship between political, economic, and social development and security. It studies the security environment of a developing world that faces a unique constellation of security threats created by the presence of weak states, divided societies, political and economic dependency, and the pressures of globalization. It uses the perspective of traditional theories that privilege the security of states and regimes as well as non-traditional theories that focus on human and environmental security. The course also examines potential strategies for coping with the various types of insecurity experienced by developing states and societies. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as POLS 4321 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Africa in a Global Context

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; 3 credits from INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course focuses on the manner in which the African continent is connected to various processes and structures of global politics. Topics may include: the integration of Africa into the global economy; the scramble for oil and gas on the continent; Africa and the 'War on Terror'; the rising role of the Chinese state in Africa; and the role of other major powers such as the United States and France on the continent. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of INLR 4701 offered with a similar title)

Independent Study in International Relations

This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for INLR 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)

Independent Study in International Relations

This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for INLR 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)

Honours Thesis

This course comprises independent research and study under the direction of a supervisor approved by the Program Advisor. [Note 1: Permission of the IR Program Advisor and written confirmation from a thesis supervisor submitted to the Program Advisor before March 31 of the year before the thesis is to be undertaken.] (Format: Independent Study/Thesis)

Special Topic in International Relations

This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for INLR 4991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

POLS COURSES

Foundations of Politics

This course is an introduction to the foundations of politics through the medium of political theory, Canadian politics, comparative politics, or international politics. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 1000)

Special Topic in Political Science

This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for POLS 1991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

Democratic Thought

Prereq: POLS 1001; or permission of the Department
This course examines democratic thought from its origins in the ancient polis through to its modern incarnation in the writings of Rousseau, Tocqueville, John Stuart Mill and selected contemporary theorists. It places particular emphasis on the conflict between participatory and elite models of democratic citizenship. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)(Exclusion: Any version of POLS 2001 previously offered with a different title)

Canadian Government and Politics

Prereq: POLS 1001; or permission of the Department
This course is a study of the political process in Canada. It presents an overview of the constitution, institutions, and political actors that represent the essential components of Canada's political culture and government. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Canada and the World

Prereq: POLS 1001; or permission of the Department
This course is a critical analysis of Canada's place in a rapidly evolving global order. It places particular emphasis on media technology. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Introduction to Comparative Politics

Prereq: POLS 1001; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the comparative methods and the importance of theory in this sub-field. It examines several country case studies selected from diverse geographical regions throughout the world. Its topics may include contemporary issues such as terrorism, social movements, civil conflict, and democratic transitions. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Introduction to International Relations

Prereq: POLS 1001; or permission of the Department
This course introduces several of the major theories, structures, processes, and issues in international relations. After introducing the current theoretical approaches to the study of global politics, the course addresses a series of topics from among the following: systems of global governance; the concept 'terrorism'; non-state actors in global politics such as corporations, social movements, and non-governmental organizations; human rights and human security; gender and international politics; poverty,'development', and inequality; and the environment.[Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 2301 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)(Exclusion: Any version of INLR/POLS 2301 previously offered with a different title)

Special Topic in Political Science

This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for POLS 2991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

Ancient Political Thought

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the ancient tradition of political thought from Plato, Aristotle, and Augustine through to its eclipse in Machiavelli. It emphasizes the enduring themes of nature, virtue, citizenship, property, religion and the best regime. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of POLS 3001 previously offered with a different title)

Modern Political Thought

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the modern tradition of political thought from its origins in Hobbes and Locke to its zenith in Rousseau and Marx. It emphasizes the defining problems of freedom, history, property, revolution, and the state. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of POLS 3011 previously offered with a different title)

Women and Politics

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the relationship between women and politics. Its topics may include the historical and conceptual roots of the problem of citizenship for women, patterns of women's participation in politics and government, the politics of the women's movement, and women's effects on public policy. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Political Leadership in Canada

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course studies the various public offices in Canada and the individuals who fill them, including the Prime Minister, Provincial premiers, members of parliament, mayors and judges. It emphasizes the opportunities and challenges that each faces in providing political leadership in Canada. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Canadian Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course is an examination of the evolution and operation of the Canadian federal system. Its topics may include the concept and meaning of federalism, constitutional reform, fiscal federalism and intergovernmental relations. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of POLS 3111 previously offered with a different title)

Maritime Provincial Politics

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course provides an advanced introduction to the politics of the three Maritime provinces - New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Topics include: the nature of provincial and regional political culture; the nature of the party system in each province; the status and role of Francophones, Indigenous people, African Canadians, and recent immigrants; comparative public policy in areas of provincial jurisdiction; resource industries and the service-sector economy; and the region in Canadian nationalist, continentalist, and autonomist approaches to economic development. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 3991 Maritime Provincial Politics)

Canadian Public Policy

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course introduces students to theories of public policy-making and the policy-making process in Canada. It emphasizes decision-making, policy change, and implementation in exploring connections among actors, ideas, and institutions in various public policy fields including environmental, health, and social policy to reveal patterns of policy change. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Political Parties and Elections In Canada

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines how the structure of the Canadian electoral system conditions the role, organization, and development of political parties in Canada as vehicles for political representation. It includes an examination of the voting calculus and the role of the media in elections. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

European Politics

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course is a comparative analysis of government and politics with particular emphasis on Europe's role in a changing geopolitical order. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

American Government and Politics

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the political process in the United States. It presents an overview of the constitution, institutions, and political actors that represent the essential components of American political culture and government. It may also focus on one or more important policy areas. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 2201)

African Politics

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the study of African politics and development. It examines a number of country case studies and important contemporary issues. Its topics may include critical analysis of colonial and pre-colonial historical contexts, the nature of the post-colonial state in Africa, and the manner in which Africa is integrated into the global economy. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Comparative Politics of the Middle East

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the political dynamics of selected states and societies in the Middle East. It addresses such issues as post-colonial state formation and political development; the political economy of reform; petropolitics; gender; minorities; the effects of regional conflict on domestic politics; the growth of secular and religious opposition movements; and processes of political liberalization and de-liberalization. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 3991 Comparative Politics of the Middle East)

Human Rights

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course is a foundation for the study of human rights. It explores the origins, history, and institutions of human rights including issues of social justice and human dignity. Select themes will focus on individual, civil and political rights as well as collective and socio-economic rights. (Format: Lecture/tutorial 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 3991 Human Rights)

Globalization and Labour

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course explores labour rights in the age of globalization. Issues examined may include the right to organize and collective bargaining, labour precarity, child labour, coerced labour, informal work, migration and work in the Global North and Global South. The course also explores various forms of labour resistance and organizing. (Format: Lecture/tutorial 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 3991 Global Labour Studies)

Global Governance

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course examines the role of international organizations in International Relations with a focus on the United Nations. It addresses the challenges of multilateral diplomacy in the age of globalization and U.S. supremacy. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 3301 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: INLR 3101)

International Political Economy

Prereq: INLR/POLS 2301; or permission of the Department
This course surveys the critical International Political Economy (IPE) tradition in the study of International Relations, from Marx and Polanyi to Cox and Strange. As a critique of realism and liberalism, IPE posits the inseparability of the domestic and international realms, of the political and economic spheres, as well as of state and society. It examines the impact of globalization and environmental change on states in the global order. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 3311 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: INLR 3401)

International Politics of the Middle East

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the factors shaping international politics in the Middle East. It considers issues such as war, conflict resolution, regional alliance behaviour, and the relationships between regional states and the great powers, examining them from the perspective of traditional theories of international relations that emphasize balance of power politics, as well non-traditional theories that emphasize political and economic underdevelopment and dependency. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)(Exclusion: POLS 3991 Middle East Politics; Any version of POLS 3321 previously offered with a different title)

American Foreign Policy

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines American foreign policy during the post-World War II period. The first half of the course introduces key concepts and theories concerning the making of American foreign policy. The second half of the course considers the Post-Cold War security environment and the challenges facing US policy makers in the contemporary environment. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Security Studies

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines strategies for war and peace. The first half of the course focuses on basic military strategies, including attrition, blitzkrieg, and deterrence as well as asymmetric conflict. The second half of the course treats conflict resolution as well as strategies for maintaining peace once it has been achieved. These strategies include humanitarian intervention, balance of power politics, concerts of power, and international institutions. The course focuses on theory but uses case studies to illustrate specific arguments. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Foreign Policy Analysis

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course introduces key theories in the study of foreign policy-making. It explores the role of individual decision-makers, interest-groups, economics, bureaucratic politics, and regime types. It also examines how constraints and opportunities in the international system shape foreign policy choices. It analyzes foreign policy in the context of both developed and developing states and considers a variety of different foreign policy issues. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 3351 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

Global Capitalism

Prereq: 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course provides a critical analysis of global capitalism by drawing on a range of contemporary perspectives regarding the way global capitalism operates. The course also presents an analysis of selected contemporary alternatives to capitalism, and their potential to alleviate poverty on a local and/or global scale. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 3361 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: INLR 3991 Global Capitalism)

Special Topic in Political Science

Prereq: POLS 1001; 6 credits from POLS at the 2000 level; or permission of the Department
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for POLS 3991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)

Problems in the History of Political Thought

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS 3001, 3011; or permission of the Department
This course examines a selected problem in the history of political thought. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of POLS 4000 previously offered with a different title)

Feminist Political Thought

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS 3001, 3011, 3031; or permission of the Department
This course examines contemporary feminist political thought with particular emphasis on feminist critiques and reconstructions of traditional concepts such as politics, citizenship, equality, justice, and freedom. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Liberal Democracy and Its Discontents

Prereq: Three credits from POLS 3001, 3011; or permission of the Department
This course examines the critical theories of the culture and politics of liberal democracy which have shaped the main currents of modern political thought from the nineteenth century to the present. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Advanced Public Policy Analysis in Canada

Prereq: POLS 3141; or permission of the Department
This course provides a critical overview of how public policies arise and are enacted in Canada. It critically assesses theories of public policy analysis and evaluation and the role of actors in the process, including legislators, political parties, interest groups, think tanks, administrators, and the media. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 4991 Advanced Public Policy Analysis in Canada)

Environmental Conflicts in Canada

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS 3101, 3111, 3141, 3151; or permission of the Department
This course examines transboundary environmental conflicts in Canada. It investigates conceptual and regulatory issues such as the scale and heterogeneity of conflicts, communities affected, collaboration and coordination, privatization, and government management. Topics may include: water scarcity and pollution, invasive species, climate change, wildlife management, energy development, and waste management. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Interest Groups and Social Movements In Canada

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS 3101, 3111, 3141, 3151; or permission of the Department
This course examines interest groups and social movements primarily from a Canadian perspective. It studies the development and role of interest groups and social movements both in the past and present. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Disability Politics & Policy in Canada

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS 3101, 3111, 3141, 3151; or permission of the Department
This course examines the evolution of disability politics and policy in Canada. It emphasizes conceptualizations of disability, political participation, advocacy, and rights-based approaches to changes in public policy. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 3991 Disability Politics & Policy)

Political and Cultural Change: a Comparative Analysis of North America And Europe

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS at the 2/3000 level; or permission of the Department
A comparative analysis of the impact of political change on the broader culture, as expressed in literature, cinema, architecture and communications media. Examples will be taken from North American and European experience. (Format: Lecture/Seminar 3 Hours)

Politics and Literature

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS at the 2/3000 level; or permission of the Department
An analysis of the relationship between literature and social change. Selected works of a number of recent Latin American and Central European writers will be examined. (Format: Lecture/Seminar 3 Hours)

The Arab Spring

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course explores the impact of the Arab Spring on the practice of authoritarian politics in the Middle East. It examines theoretical debates about the role of political culture, political economy, state-building and political liberalization. Case studies examine strategies used to manage, co-opt and/or coerce political opposition and civil society, as well as why some regimes eventually allowed transitions to take place, while others relied on repression even if it meant civil war. Finally, the impact of regional conflicts and rivalries is considered along with the influence of the United States. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed with INLR 4221 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion: POLS 4991 Arab Spring)

Adv Topics in Comparative Politics and Human Rights

Prereq: POLS 3241; or permission of the Department
This course examines a selected topic at the intersection of human rights issues and comparative politics. [Note 1: Students may register for POLS 4231 more than once, provided that the subject matter differs.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Development & Social Justice

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course explores the right to development, collective and socio-economic rights, and critical approaches to development. It examines the origins, adoption and limits of different development models, highlighting the perspectives of the marginalized and the excluded. Regions to be considered could include the Middle East, North Africa, and Central and Latin America. (Format: Seminar 3 Hours) (Exclusion POLS 4991 Development & Social Justice)

Canadian Foreign Policy

Prereq: POLS 3310; or permission of the Department
A study of the major themes and issues in post-1945 Canadian Foreign policy, with a focus on the concept of internationalism as the foundation for Canada's post-war approaches to international order and security. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)

International Relations Theory

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course provides an advanced analysis of major theories of International Relations. It may include theories of realism, liberalism, constructivism, Marxism, feminism, poststructuralism, and postcolonialism. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 4310 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Security and Development in the Global South

Prereq: 3 credits from POLS or INLR at the 3000 level; or permission of the Department
This course examines the relationship between political, economic, and social development and security. It studies the security environment of a developing world that faces a unique constellation of security threats created by the presence of weak states, divided societies, political and economic dependency, and the pressures of globalization. It uses the perspective of traditional theories that privilege the security of states and regimes as well as non-traditional theories that focus on human and environmental security. The course also examines potential strategies for coping with the various types of insecurity experienced by developing states and societies. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as INLR 4321 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Seminar 3 Hours)

Independent Study in Political Science

This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for POLS 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)

Independent Study in Political Science

This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for POLS 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)

Honours Thesis

The honours thesis involves independent research and study under the direction of a supervisor approved by the Department. [Note 1: Permission of the Program Advisor and written confirmation from a thesis supervisor submitted to the Program Advisor before March 31 of the year before the thesis is to be undertaken.] (Format: Independent Study/Thesis)

Special Topic in Political Science

This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for POLS 4991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)