introduces fundamental concepts and theories in the study of politics and government within and across states. The course prepares students to undertake more advanced study in all subfields of Political Science, and also provides a foundation for study in related disciplines.

provides an overview of foundational knowledge and skills to enable critical reading and critical writing at the university level. Students learn the elements of academic assessment of literature and information that is available in the library and/or online, and about the mechanics of analytical writing. The “politics and governance” content varies by instructor and is not repeated in any other Political Science course. All sections of this course follow the Critical Reading and Writing Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/crw.

is a survey of the most important political thinkers and schools of political thought. The course will ordinarily cover major political thinkers and include a selection of contemporary political ideologies.

explores the major features of global politics, including its intellectual origins, the role of ongoing and emerging crises, and how political actors confront global dilemmas through acts of resistance and acceptance. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

is an introduction to comparative politics and techniques of comparative analysis across political jurisdictions. This course focuses on the differences between, and similarities among, a variety of countries and systems of government.

outlines major concepts and issues relating to the fields of public policy and administration. 

is an introduction to the structure and operations of institutions of Canadian government and the nature of political actors. Topics to be examined may include the constitution, Indigenous governance, federalism, parliament, political parties, political culture and elections.

is an introduction to the logic of the scientific approach to the study of politics and to key research techniques employed by political scientists and other social scientists. All sections of this course follow Quantitative Reasoning Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/qr.

analyzes major political theory texts up to the 18th century to examine questions such as: What is the point of government? What defines us as human beings and as citizens? When, if ever, is it morally acceptable to break the law? Is rebellion ever justified? What rights attach to us as persons? What does it mean to be free? What equality can we demand from each other and from the government? Students will be introduced to a variety of answers to these questions and their contemporary relevance to the study of politics.

explores the development of our understanding of liberty, equality and power vis-à-vis a close reading of important political theory texts, drawn from the modern and contemporary periods. Students will be introduced to the history and contemporary utility of these texts to the study of politics.

introduces the field of democratic theory. Each week students will explore a different component of contemporary liberal democratic systems, including elections, civil society, participation, representation, disagreement, deliberation, equality, multiculturalism, technocracy, and economic and social justice.

examines feminist scholarship that has challenged previously accepted notions in political theory, including definitions of politics itself, the distinctions between public and private, the nature of citizenship, and the roles of women in civil society. This course considers different ways of looking at power and political culture in modern societies, examining themes such as gender and democracy, race and class, poverty and welfare, sexuality and morality.

examines modern, left-leaning (Marxist, anarchist, socialist) understandings, adaptations, and critiques of Jewish and Christian thought. The course considers religion not simply as an object of political analysis and critique, but as a contributing factor to the emergence in Europe of an influential body of post-Enlightenment emancipatory thought and political theology, as found in currents of Western Marxism.

is concerned with the interaction of international political and legal systems. Topics discussed are sources, agreements, membership, recognition, territory, jurisdiction, immunities, state responsibility, and force and war. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

introduces students to international human rights, in theory and practice. Course topics include: the history and philosophy of human rights, and international and Canadian structures and provisions. The course includes an examination of selected areas of international human rights, such as children’s rights, environmental rights, and humanitarian intervention. It explores current and future applications of human rights. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

explores and examines global governance and international organization, or ‘world orders.’ Work is guided by the overriding question: what are the politics, processes and impacts of global governance? From there the course examines the actors, institutions, and mechanisms that constitute historical and contemporary global governance. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

explores how human societies have imagined, predicted, and faced the prospects of the end of their world. Students will study recorded collapses of societies, how law and public policy depend on environmental factors, the threat of modern and thermonuclear war, and current scholarship on planet politics and the Anthropocene. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

explores the place of the First World War in International Relations. Topics to be reviewed are the international relations of the war, the place of the First World War in causes of war debates, and the effects of the war on International Relations and global politics. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

studies the governance of global economic relations.  The course covers the politics of the global monetary and financial order, international trade, foreign investment and debt, international development, and environmental policy. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

examines the global governance of agriculture and food, and explores how new global actors, institutions, and policies shape the politics of food production, distribution, and consumption. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

examines political concepts and government policies related to international security contexts, such as the displacement of citizens, food supply issues, energy, information flows, war and/or the environment. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

is an examination of the EU as a transnational form of governance. The course will consider its origins, the operation of its institutions, its transformation from Common Market to European Union, and the ways in which EU politics impinges on national-level politics.

explores how the governance of population movements, both within and across borders, impact international, national and human security. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

is a comparative study of government and politics in selected states of Europe.

examines the governmental process in the United States including the role of parties and interest groups. This course will also consider select contemporary problems.

is an analysis of the forces influencing politics in contemporary Latin America with particular emphasis given to those factors promoting political change.

analyzes the history and development of political change in a selection of South Asian states with a focus on the contemporary challenges that they face in a globalized political environment.

examines gendered power relations in the political process in comparative context. Topics may include contemporary and historical political realities, political socialization, party organization, recruitment of non-traditional candidates and voters into the political system; voting behaviour; and the organization of governmental institutions and programs as a response to the feminist movement.

looks at the measurement and formation of political attitudes, factors affecting attitude stability and change, and the distribution of opinion in society. Emphasizes public opinion and voting behaviour in the United States and Canada during campaigns and interelection periods. All sections of this course follow Quantitative Reasoning Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/qr.

considers questions related to political scandal and corruption in elections, focusing on voters’ perceptions, media coverage, and party and candidate strategies to deal with corruption and scandals, in an effort to understand the impact of past scandals and the potential impact of future scandals for voters and electoral democracy.

examines contemporary legal debates on the place and contours of ‘religion’ in Canada. Through consideration of a number of post-Charter Supreme Court of Canada decisions, as well as sociological research on different religious communities, we delve into the changing meanings of religious diversity in Canada.

is a study of political parties in liberal democracies. Attention is given to the origin and development of parties, how they organize, multiparty competition and what difference parties make. 

is an examination of the relationship between public policy development and changes in the social and economic policy environment. Students will apply theories and models of public policy to a variety of topical case studies in established democracies.

reviews and critiques traditional theories about law. The concept of law as a process of authoritative decision-making will be used to examine the function of judicial authority.

examines the political, professional, and ethical trade-offs faced by public servants and other actors working to advance the common good. Students will be trained in moral reasoning and strategic thinking through exposure to several real-world policy cases on topics ranging from whistleblowing and the management of conflicts of interest, to the challenges of exercising leadership in professional environments that are politically and ethically complex.

examines relationships between governments in the Canadian federation ranging from high-profile disputes to efficient diplomacy. This course reviews longstanding intergovernmental stresses such as the constitution, legislative powers, legal matters, Indigenous governance, local government, sub-state nationalism and wealth distribution.

explores the roles of political elites, such as prime ministers, premiers and ministers, and executive institutions in government such as the Prime Minister's Office and the Privy Council Office, in addressing and shaping important policies and political issues in Canada.

examines critical issues of Canadian constitutional law. The development of the Canadian Constitution and processes of judicial review, as well as the legal development of federalism and protection of civil rights, are examined in detail.

emphasizes how the judicial system and law are intertwined with politics and public policy in Canada.

traces the historical development of Indigenous land and resource rights; colonial and Canadian law; and the Constitution of Canada as it relates to the First Nations, Inuit and Metis people of Canada. The developing concept of Indigenous law is presented within the context of the treaty process, Indian Act, contemporary land claims, the Canadian Constitution, and federal/provincial relations.

introduces students to major debates about the role of the state in Canadian economic development and public policy. Topics may include: the challenges of natural resource dependency, regionalism, globalization, and the relationship between Canada and the United States.

focuses on the role, functions, and purposes of various types of media in Canadian politics and society.

is a study of the government and political process in Newfoundland and Labrador. Topics may include electoral behaviour and attitudes, the party system, leadership styles, the consequences of federalism, and public administration.

will have topics announced by the Department.

courses are offered only at the Harlow (England) Campus and explore selected facets of politics.

develops independent research and writing skills through regular meetings with a research supervisor, the preparation of an approved research proposal, and submission of a high-quality draft of at least one major section of the Honours essay by the start of the official exam period. Students are expected to follow guidelines on the department's website. Prior to enrolling, and ideally a semester in advance, students should contact the Head of the Department to identify a potential supervisor.

builds on skills developed in POSC 4010, requires students to complete the writing of their Honours essay, including submitting a high-quality complete draft by the start of the official exam period, with the final complete document to follow soon afterwards. Students are expected to meet regularly with their research supervisor and to follow guidelines on the department's website.

is an introduction to the interpretation of political texts. Features historical and hermeneutical approaches to the study of Political Science.

examines the major theories used to understand world politics and international conflict. These theories are explored through classic readings in international relations. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

explores the various interlocking existential threats that face global politics in the 21st century. The course concentrates on the origin of these threats, their likely effects, and how to avoid them. Each threat is explored as both a distinct political issue, and as part of an interconnected challenge to global public policy. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

examines classic and contemporary political economic theories and approaches, and applies them to pressing issue areas. We will ask questions about the dynamics of economic, political, and cultural transformations, paying attention to the political work of economics. How do specific approaches and, in particular, global political economy approaches help (or hinder) our understanding of contemporary problems and crises? All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

examines current political and public policy challenges from a global political economy perspective. Topics may include the global politics of the environment, food, development, finance, and/or security. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

introduces political issues common to various regions of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Discussions centre on global political and economic processes that have shaped the Global South, such as colonialism, the Cold War, development narratives, foreign aid and humanitarian interventions, neoliberal globalization, and the rise of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa). All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

considers the relationship between public opinion and representative government through a comprehensive review of theoretical perspectives and empirical debates in the study of mass political attitudes.

analyses the history and development of political change in a selection of Asian states, with a focus on contemporary challenges that they face in a globalized political environment.

studies the relationship between citizens, political institutions, and political outcomes.

focuses on the role of gender in structuring political behaviour and participation. Focusing primarily on Canada and the United States, this course assesses patterns of political engagement, public opinion, and gendered structures of political power.

examines protest and movement politics, insurgent and counter-insurgent politics, terrorism, and revolution.

is a comparative study of the conditions necessary to develop and sustain democratic regimes and the circumstances under which transitions to democracy succeed or fail. The course will examine theoretical materials and apply them to recent and historical transitions to democratic rule.

examines the relationships between religion and politics in modernity. Topics may include: secularism and secularization theory; civil religion; religion as a variable in politics, party formation and voting patterns; the role of religion in colonization/decolonization and reconciliation; religion in public spheres; political theologies; religious factors informing extremism, social polarization, and authoritarianism; religious freedoms, tolerance, accommodation, and the law; war and terrorism; religion in foreign policy and international relations theory.

involves students working on a major project to gain experience applying public policy models and analysis techniques as they attempt to improve a real-world existing public policy within the constraints of finite resources and political realities. 

explores the exciting field of participatory innovations in democratic governance and public policy. The goal is to identify proposals that generate effective citizen participation and engagement while addressing pressing public problems. Discussions are grounded in an analysis of real-world cases, from elections and criminal justice to international development and urban planning.

is an in-depth examination of Canadian political parties.

is an examination of elections in the Canadian political system, with an emphasis on candidates, parties, voters, electioneering activities and campaign regulations.

is an examination of the theory, structure and operation of local governments in Canada.

will have a seminar topic announced by the Department.

for most students this represents their first work experience in a professional environment. They are expected to learn, develop and practice high standards of behaviour in the workplace.

building on their first work term placement students will further develop their knowledge and work-related skills in a position that entails increased responsibility and challenge. Students are expected to demonstrate an ability to deal with increasingly complex work-related concepts and problems.

building on their previous work term placements and Political Science course knowledge, students will contribute in a positive manner to the problem-solving and management processes practiced in the work environment. Students should become better acquainted with their discipline of study; should observe and appreciate the attitudes, responsibilities and ethics normally expected of professionals; and should exercise greater independence and responsibility in their assigned work functions.

examines the nature and aims of democracy and contemporary issues related to social justice through a law and society perspective.

outlines major concepts in, and issues relating to, the fields of public policy and administration. Introduces students to major conceptual issues that shape public policy and government, such as agenda setting, types of public policy models and public management processes. Open to all students interested in the study of public policy and public administration.

is concerned with the interaction of international political and legal systems. Topics discussed are sources, agreements, membership, recognition, territory, jurisdiction, immunities, state responsibility, and force and war. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

introduces students to international human rights, in theory and practice. Course topics include the history and  philosophy of human rights, and international and Canadian structures and provisions. The course includes an examination of selected areas of international human rights, such as children’s rights, environmental rights, and humanitarian intervention. It explores current and future applications of human rights. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

explores how human societies have imagined, predicted, and faced the prospects of the end of their world. Students will study recorded collapses of societies, how law and public policy depend on environmental factors, the threat of modern and thermonuclear war, and current scholarship on planet politics and the Anthropocene. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

examines the global governance of agriculture and food, and explores how new global actors, institutions, and regulations shape the politics of food production, distribution, and consumption. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

examines political concepts and government policies related to international security contexts, such as the displacement of citizens, food supply issues, energy, information flows, war and/or the environment. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

explores how population movements, both within and across borders, impact international, national, and human security. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

looks at legal issues affecting gender and sexuality in Canada, such as equality, family law, gender and crime.

examines contemporary legal debates on the place and contours of ‘religion’ in Canada. Through consideration of a number of post-Charter Supreme Court of Canada decisions, as well as sociological research on different religious communities, we delve into the changing meanings of religious diversity in Canada.

is an examination of the relationship between public policy development and changes in the social and economic policy environment. Students will apply theories and models of public policy to a variety of topical case studies in established democracies.

reviews and critiques traditional theories about law. The concept of law as a process of authoritative decision-making will be used to examine the function of judicial authority.

examines the political, professional, and ethical trade-offs faced by public servants and other actors working to advance the common good. Students will be trained in moral reasoning and strategic thinking through exposure to several real-world policy cases on topics ranging from whistleblowing and the management of conflicts of interest, to the challenges of exercising leadership in professional environments that are politically and ethically complex.

examines relationships between governments in the Canadian federation ranging from high-profile disputes to efficient diplomacy. This course reviews longstanding intergovernmental stresses such as the constitution, legislative powers, legal matters, Indigenous governance, local government, sub-state nationalism, and wealth distribution.

explores the roles of political elites, such as prime ministers, premiers, and ministers, and executive institutions in government such as the Prime Minister's Office and the Privy Council Office, in addressing and shaping important political issues in Canada.

uses a casebook approach to examine critical issues of Canadian constitutional law. The development of the Canadian Constitution and processes of judicial review, as well as the legal development of federalism and protection of civil rights, are examined in detail.

emphasizes how the judicial system and law are intertwined with politics and public policy in Canada.

traces the historical development of Indigenous land and resource rights; colonial and Canadian law; and the Constitution of Canada as it relates to the First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people of Canada. The developing concept of Indigenous law is presented within the context of the treaty process, Indian Act, contemporary land claims, the Canadian Constitution, and federal/provincial relations.

introduces students to major debates about the role of the state in Canadian economic development and public policy. Topics may include: the challenges of natural resource dependency, regionalism, globalization, and the relationship between Canada and the United States.

will have topics announced by the Department.

examines current political and public policy challenges from a global political economy perspective. Topics may include the global politics of the environment, food, development, finance, and/or security. All sections of this course follow International Studies guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/IS.

involves students working on a major project to gain experience applying public policy models and analysis techniques as they attempt to improve a real-world existing public policy within the constraints of finite resources and political realities.

explores the exciting field of participatory innovations in democratic governance and public policy. The goal is to identify proposals that generate effective citizen participation and engagement while addressing pressing public problems. Discussions are grounded in an analysis of real-world cases, from elections and criminal justice to international development and urban planning.

will have a seminar topic announced by the Department.