PA 5990 A (CRN: 96006)
Public Administration: US Elect Admin:Challenges/Pros (A)
3 credit hours
About PA 5990 A
Current issues and new developments in public policy and public administration. Prerequisite: Permission.
Notes
Open to Degree and PACE students
Section Description
The ability to freely choose our leaders is a hallmark of democracy, but the legitimacy of electoral practices in the U.S. is highly contested today. This course will examine key issues surrounding U.S. election administration. It will challenge students to consider how the methods by which we choose our leaders can be strengthened. The course will take place against the backdrop of the November 2026 electoral cycle. It will cover not only how elections are administered but also key broader contextual elements that contribute to framing US elections, such as federalism, election systems, the electoral college and campaign finance. The first half of the course will focus on mapping out and framing the issues, while the second half will be directed towards identifying and considering reform alternatives to strengthen our elections process.
Anticipated outcomes: Upon course completion students should have a) deepened their knowledge of how elections are conducted; b) understand key contextual and historical elements shaping contemporary US election infrastructure; c) recognize strengths and weaknesses of the election infrastructure and its “enabling environment”; and d) developed ideas of how to improve the legitimacy of our election system.
Section Expectation
This course combines lecture and discussion formats. Students should expect to spend 6-8 hours a week on coursework outside of class, with additional time for the semester-long project.
Evaluation
Grades are based on attendance and participation, the compilation of a bi-weekly portfolio, a midterm exam, and a research project.
Important Dates
Note: These dates may change before registration begins.
Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.
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Resources
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