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Traditionally, the study of politics and economics was combined. Modern
thinkers like Adam Smith and John Locke were referred to as political
economists. Individuals who understood the intricate relationship
between economics and politics. A push for specialization has led to a
separation of the study into two distinct disciplines. Yet at Albertson
College we recognize that a good understanding of either discipline really
requires a good understanding of both. Consequently, we have created two
interdisciplinary majors to serve the specific needs of our students.
The Politics and Economics Major is specifically designed for students
primarily interested in domestic politics, law, economics/business related
careers, and public policy. The International Political Economy Major
is specifically designed for students whose primary interests lie in the
study of international politics, international economics/business, and
foreign affairs. We also offer minors in Politics and Economics and International
Political Economy.
The international political economy courses contain a strong interdisciplinary
emphasis, incorporating relevant concepts and perspectives from other
social science disciplines. Principles and philosophical concepts are
presented within the respective historical context in which they developed
to emphasize the importance of history and culture to the evolutionary
development of national, regional and global entities. Particular emphasis
is given to Asia and Europe.
The department has a 3+3 BA or BS/JD cooperative program with the University
of Idaho whereby students can complete a Bachelor of Arts or Science from
Albertson College of Idaho and a Juris Doctor degree from the University
of Idaho. Students pursuing any major are encouraged to explore this unique
opportunity. See the "Cooperative Programs with Other Colleges/Universities"
for specific requirements.
Politics and Economics Major
Consists of 36 credits to include the following:
Introductory Core
- POE 263 Introduction to Political Economy
- POE 100 Essentials of American Government or
POL 241 Introduction to Public Policy
- POE 250 Introduction to Political Philosophy or
POE 373 History of Economic Thought
- POE 299 Evidence, Proof, and Knowledge
Electives
Other courses focusing on either economics, politics, or both depending
on student interest.
Capstone
International Political Economy Major
Consists of 36 credits plus a foreign language requirement and includes
the following:
Introductory Core
- POE 120 International Politics
- POE 250 Introduction to Political Philosophy or POE 373 History
of Economic Thought
- POE 263 Introduction to Political Economy
- POE 299 Evidence, Proof, and Knowledge
International Political Economy
- POE 260 Introduction to Comparative Politics or POE 321 Comparative
Economics
- POE 302 Economic Development or POE 351 Politics in Developing
Countries
- POE 376 International Economics or POE 380 International Political
Economy
Electives
Nine credits of elective courses in the department.
Capstone
Foreign Language Requirement
Students pursuing a major in International Political Economy must demonstrate
a competence in one foreign language at the intermediate level. Competence
will be measured by successful completion of two intermediate level
college semester courses in a foreign language or by passing a standardized
intermediate level foreign language examination.
Senior Thesis
Students who plan to enter graduate school or law school are encouraged
to write a senior thesis. The thesis topic, definition of terms, method
of analysis and bibliography must be carefully worked out and approved
by the Department at the conclusion of the junior year and successful
completion of POE 299. During the senior year, students writing a thesis
will enroll in POE 480, which partially fulfills the 400-level seminar
requirement.
Business-International Political Economy Joint Major
As a joint program between the Business and Politics &
Economics departments, this major combines two areas of related significance
in a world of increasing economic globalization. This major serves students
interested in preparing for careers in international business, government,
or development (or further graduate work in Business or International
Studies). Students pursing this major benefit by graduating with the
applied skills and knowledge used in business and organizational environments
in addition to an analytical understanding of international political
and economic life.
The Business-International Political Economy major consists of 36 credits
plus the foreign language requirement and includes the following:
- BUS 221 Financial Accounting
- BUS 330 Principles of Finance
- BUS 340 International Business
- BUS 357 Organizational Behavior
- BUS 360 Principles of Marketing
- BUS 391 Legal Environment of Business
- POE 120 International Politics
- POE 263 Introduction to Political Economy
or
POE 271 Introduction to Microeconomics and POE 272 Introduction
to Macroeconomics
- Nine credits chosen from:
- POE 260 Introduction to Comparative Economics OR POE 321 Comparative
Economics
- POE 302 Economic Development
or
POE 351 Politics in Developing Countries
- POE 376 International Economics
or
POE 380 International Political Economy
Foreign Language Requirement
Students pursuing this joint major must demonstrate a competence in
one foreign language at the intermediate level. Competence will be measured
by successful completion of two intermediate level college semester
courses in a foreign language or by passing a standardized intermediate
level foreign language examination.
Politics and Economics Minor
Consists of 21 credits.
Introductory Core
- POE 263 Introduction to Political Economy
- POE 100 Essentials in American government or
POE 241 Introduction to Public Policy
- POE 250 Introduction to Political Philosophy or
POE 373 History of Economic Thought
- POE 299 Evidence, Proof, and Knowledge
Electives
Other courses focusing on either economics, politics, or both
depending on the students interests.
Senior Capstone
POE 498 Senior Seminar
International Political Economy Minor
Consists of 21 credits, 18 of which must be selected from the following
courses:
- POE 120 International Politics or
POE-260 Introduction to Comparative Politics
- POE 263 Introduction to Political Economy
- POE 299 Evidence, Proof, and Knowledge
- POE 380 International Political Economy
- POE 499 Senior Seminar
Electives
Other courses focusing on either economics, politics, or both depending
on the student’s interests.
Asian Studies Minor
For a description of this interdisciplinary minor, see the Asian Studies
section of the catalog.
Interdisciplinary (IND)
IND-310.1 Many Thousands Gone: The History, Literature & Politics
of Slavery in the US South & the Caribbean 1.0 cr.
Fall 2003. This course is a prerequisite for the winter session off-campus
study course (IND 310.2) of the same name. (LITERATURE AND SOCIAL SCIENCE)
IND-310.2 Many Thousands Gone: The History, Literature & Politics
of Slavery in the US South & the Caribbean 5.0 cr.
Winter 2004. This course is designed to expose students from various
disciplines to the literary, economic and political histories of slavery,
particularly as it was practiced in the southern United States and in
the Caribbean. The field experience portion of the course will take
students through the American South and to Barbados. (LITERATURE AND
SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POLITICS & ECONOMICS (POE)
LOWER DIVISION
POE-100 Essentials of American Government 3.0 cr.
An introduction to the institutions of the American government and
political system, including political parties, the media and interest
groups. (SOCIAL SCIENCES)
POE-101 American Political Culture & Government 3.0 cr.
An introduction to the study and influence of American political culture
and beliefs upon politics and governing institutions. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY
OR SOCIAL SCIENCES)
POE-102 Debate 1.0 cr.
This course is designed for students who wish to participate in intercollegiate
debate and speech competitions. It will include lecture/discussion sessions
and mock debates. Students may compete and attend lecture/discussion
sessions without enrolling for credit. Only three credits of credit
will count toward the major in Politics and Economics or International
Political Economy. This course does not fulfill any general graduation
requirement.
POE-120 International Politics 3.0 cr.
A survey examination of the actors and issues in global politics.
Emphasis is placed on conceptual, analytical, and theoretical foundations
of the field. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCES)
POE-199T.01 Topics in Environmental Economics 3.0 cr.
A discussion-based course covering topics in renewable and nonrenewable
resource use, sustainable yields in fisheries, transportation issues,
management of endangered species, and land-use management (e.g., urban
sprawl). Primary focus will be on issues of regional significance (e.g.,
conservation of Pacific salmon stocks, water-use management). Economic
concepts covered include market failure, cost-benefit analysis, monetary
evaluation of the environment, and sustainable economic development.
(SOCIAL SCIENCES)
POE-235 Introduction to Asian Politics & Society 3.0 cr.
An interdisciplinary survey of countries in Pacific Asia. Students
will consider the search for freedom, equality, and order across the
region by comparing the diverse experiences of Asian states and societies.
(CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-240 The Legal Process 3.0 cr.
Alt. years. An introductory examination of the legal process and the
role of law in society. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-241 Introduction to Public Policy 3.0 cr.
An introduction to the public policy process and the analysis of specific
public policies. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-250 Introduction to Political Philosophy 3.0 cr.
An introduction to the major themes of political philosophy. (SOCIAL
SCIENCE)
POE-255 American Foreign Policy 3.0 cr.
An examination of the history, institutions, process and policy tools
in the realm of American foreign policy. This course relies on extensive
use of case studies from the Cold War, Vietnam, and Post Cold War periods.
(SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-260 Introduction to Comparative Politics 3.0 cr.
A comparative study of governments and political activity. Industrial
democracies, transitional democracies, and various forms of authoritarian
rule are examined. Case studies are drawn from Europe, Asia, Africa,
Latin America, and the Middle East. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE 263 -Introduction to Political Economy 4.0 cr.
Fall. Prereq.: MAT 105 and sophomore standing or permission. An introduction
to classical political economy philosophies and the economic principles
that were developed in response to such philosophies. These principles
will be used to promote understanding of how economic considerations
constrain and influence political decisions and processes. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE 271 -Principles of Microeconomics 3.0 cr.
Fall: Prereq,: MAT 105 and sophomore standing or permission of the
instructor. An introduction to economic analysis which includes a brief
historical overview of the evolution of the market economy and an investigation
of basis microeconomic principles and the historical context within
which they were first developed (SOCIAL SCIENCE).
POE 272 -Introduction to Macroeconomics 3.0 cr.
Fall: Prereq,: POE 271 and sophomore standing or permission of the
instructor. An introduction to macroeconomic analysis. The course investigates
the problems of unemployment, inflation, business cycles and international
trade, among other macroeconomic problems. (SOCIAL SCIENCE).
POE-299 Evidence, Proof, & Knowledge 3.0 cr.
An introduction to scientific inquiry, search strategies for acquiring
data, political science methods for evaluating data and statistical
techniques for analyzing data. Students pursuing a major or a minor
in Politics and Economics or International Political Economy must complete
the introductory core before enrolling in this course. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
UPPER DIVISION
POE-300 Constitutional Law I 3.0 cr.
An examination of the principles of American constitutional law concerning
allocation of powers through the study of Supreme Court decisions, the
role of the judicial branch and judicial review, separation of powers,
congressional and presidential powers and federalism. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-301 Constitutional Law II 3.0 cr.
An examination of the principles of American constitutional law concerning
civil liberties and civil rights through the study of Supreme Court
decisions: due process, rights of the accused, equal protection, freedom
of expression and freedom of religion. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL
SCIENCE)
POE-302 Economic Development 3.0 cr.
Spring. An examination of the characteristics of underdeveloped nations,
what factors contribute to their relative poverty, particular development
problems they face, and policies for alleviating these problems. (CULTURAL
DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-307 The Legislative Process 3.0 cr.
An examination of the legislative process within the United States
with special emphasis on the unique characteristics of the U. S. Congress
and the Idaho State Legislature. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-309 The American Presidency 3.0 cr.
The course will concentrate on the institution of the presidency and
how it interacts with other entities and the formal and informal powers
available to the president. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-310 Mock Supreme Court 3.0 cr.
Prereq.: POE 300 or 301 or permission. A study of politics, personalities,
and institutional norms of the Supreme Court, primarily through role
playing and intensive research, writing, and oral argument. (SOCIAL
SCIENCE)
POE-311 The Federalists & Anti-Federalists 3.0 cr.
Winter. This course will examine the arguments made by both proponents
and opponents of the constitution and determine their applicability
to current political debates. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-312 Macroeconomic Policy 3.0 cr.
Spring. Alt. years. An examination of macroeconomic policy in the
United States from the perspective of the policy process. The course
will include study of the Federal Reserve Board, the budget making process
of the Congress and executive branches, and macroeconomic theories.
(SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-321 Comparative Economics 3.0 cr.
Fall. An evaluation of economies from an historical, evolutionary
perspective. Emphasis is given to the evolution of the 19th century
laissez faire market economy and the 20th century variations, which
have evolved in countries such as France and Japan. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY
OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-339 Environmental Policy Analysis 3.0 cr.
Fall. This course will focus on the conceptual foundations of policy
analysis as they relate to the area of environmental policy. Students
will focus on both substantive environmental policies and methods for
analyzing those policies. Special emphasis will be made on economic
techniques of policy analysis. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-343 Politics & Ethics Through Film 3.0 cr.
Winter. The study of ethical issues and practical politics through
movies and documentary films. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-350 Topics in Political Philosophy 3.0 cr.
A study of selected works of ancient, medieval, modern or contemporary
political philosophy. Topics will vary from year to year. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-351 Politics in Developing Countries 3.0 cr.
An examination of the common and unique problems facing countries
in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Identifies the
strategies used by governments to improve economic conditions and consolidate
political processes. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-370 Politics in China 3.0 cr.
A survey of domestic politics in Communist China. The themes of revolution,
reform, and stability are explored as related to the Mao, Deng, and
Jiang periods. Contemporary issues such as economic reform, human rights,
law and order, as well as the status of Tibet and Hong Kong are studied.
(CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-371 Politics in Japan 3.0 cr.
An interdisciplinary examination of the world's first nonwestern industrial
superpower. Explores themes of democracy, economic nationalism, cultural
homogeneity, and Japan's relations with Asian neighbors and the United
States. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-372 China & the World 3.0 cr.
Winter. An examination of the People's Republic of China as an emerging
power in the world. Readings and discussion will concentrate on Chinese
foreign policy from the Mao period to the present. China's relations
with Taiwan, Japan, the United States and other countries and multilateral
institutions will be explored. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-373 History of Economic Thought 3.0 cr.
Fall. Prereq.: POE 263. An analysis of the significant philosophical
contributions to economics from premodern thought (ancient, medieval,
and mercantile periods), and from the modern economic paradigms (classical,
neoclassical and Keynesian). (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-376 International Economics 3.0 cr.
Spring. Alt. years. Prereq.: POE 263. A review of the principles of
international trade, the institutions that govern trade, the economic
and political aspects of economic integration, and the impact of trade
on the development of nations. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-377 Government & Business 3.0 cr.
Winter. An analysis of the distinction between public and private
economic issues. A detailed discussion of the appropriateness of governmental
intervention in the economy. Emphasis will be placed on discussion of
readings and group assignments. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-380 International Political Economy 3.0 cr.
Fall. An exploration of how politics and economics intersect in the
global arena. Considers key institutions and the role of state and transnational
actors in facilitating and undermining economic and political development.
Examines the rise of globalization including its empirical and moral
dimensions. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-399 Model United Nations 1.0 cr.
Fall, spring. This course is designed to facilitate student participation
in the Model United Nations each spring. Topics will vary from year
to year and will include the United Nations system, coalition formation,
international negotiation, and peacekeeping and diplomacy. May be repeated
for credit. Only three credits will count toward the major in Politics
and Economics or International Political Economy. (CULTURAL DIVERSITY
OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-480 Senior Thesis 3.0 cr.
Prereq.: POE 299, junior standing and permission. Students will research,
write and present a scholarly paper on the topic of their choosing.
The Department must approve the topic. (INDEPENDENT WORK)
POE-494 Independent Study 1.0 to 3.0 cr.
Prereq.: completion of the Introductory Core for either the Politics
and Economics Major or the International Political Economy Major or
permission. A research paper for students pursuing a major or minor
in Politics and Economics or International Political Economy. See independent
study guidelines. (INDEPENDENT WORK)
POE-497 Internship 1.0 to 3.0 cr.
Prereq.: completion of the Introductory Core for either the Politics
and Economics Major or the International Political Economy Major or
permission. A supervised internship designed to provide practical experience
in the field of Politics and Economics or International Political Economy.
Periodic reports and papers may be required. See independent study guidelines.
(INDEPENDENT WORK)
POE-498 Senior Seminar: Politics & Economics 3.0 cr.
Advanced study in political/economic theory involving intensive reading,
writing, and discussion. (SOCIAL SCIENCE)
POE-499 Senior Seminar: International Political Economy 3.0 cr.
A reflective survey of international political economy. The ideas
and theories of classic and modern thinkers in the field will provide
a springboard for student discussion, research and writing. (CULTURAL
DIVERSITY OR SOCIAL SCIENCE)
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