Course Descriptions
Criminology
CRIM 6300 Proseminar in Criminology
(3 semester hours) Introduction to graduate study in criminology through exposure to issues
surrounding concepts of crime, criminals and societal response. Students learn to examine critically the theoretical,
methodological and policy issues in criminology and criminal justice. (3-0) Y
CRIM 6303
Etiology of Crime and Criminality (3
semester hours) Examines
the history of criminological thought incorporating the major works of such
theorists as Bentham, Beccaria, Marx, Durkheim,
Lombroso, Shaw and McKay, Sutherland, Becker, and Merton. (3-0) Y
CRIM 6305 Law and Social Control (3 semester hours) This
course addresses the legal and theoretical basis of social control and the use
of criminal sanctions to deter and punish criminal conduct. Students will learn
to critically assess alternative punishment and sentencing models. (3-0) Y
CRIM 6307
Extent of Crime and Measurement (3
semester hours) This course will address problems in Criminology and examine
the major data sources available on crimes, criminals who commit them and the
limitations of such data. Topics also include measurement
issues and problems concerning research on the nature and extent of criminal
behavior. (3-0)
R
CRIM 6308 Victimology (3 semester hours) This course examines
risks and consequences of crime for its victims.
Issues considered include victim-offender relationships, characteristics of
victims, the nature of the injuries they experience, and criminal justice
procedures that involve them. (3-0) R
CRIM 6309 Communities and Crime (3 semester hours) This
course examines the trends and sources of crime and social disorder across
communities. The course emphasizes fear of crime, neighborhood changes and the resulting affect, responses relationships, and
public policies addressing those factors. (3-0) R
CRIM 6310
Delinquency and Juvenile Justice (3 semester hours) This course examines
youth crime, child victimization, and juvenile justice. Students learn the processes by which specific behaviors
are identified as delinquent, the historical evolution of juvenile justice, and
current policies and practices. (3-0) R
CRIM 6311 Crime
and Justice Policy. (3 semester hours) This course will provide an introduction as well as in-depth study
into crime and the efforts to control crime through public policy. (3-0) Y
CRIM 6313 Corrections (3 semester hours) This
course will examine the history, forms, and functions of correctional
philosophies, institutions, programs, and policies. Topics include the
structure and functions of prisons and jails, community corrections,
intermediate sanctions, and the growth of correctional control in modern
society. (3-0) R
CRIM 6314 Policing (3 semester hours) This
course will provide historical, social and political analysis of the roles and
functions of policing in America. (3-0) R
CRIM 6315 Violent Crime (3 semester hours) This course will provide an
in-depth analysis of the sources and patterns of violent offending across time
and space. Topics include conceptions and typologies of violent crimes,
offenders, victim-offender relations, and efforts to predict and control violent
offending. (3-0) R
CRIM 6317 Courts (3 semester hours) This course
will address the objectives, institutions and processes involved in the
adjudication of offenders. Topics include the structure and function of the
judicial system and principal court actors. (3-0) R
CRIM 6322 Crime Prevention (3 semester hours) This course examines situational, social, and legislative approaches to the
prevention of crime and delinquency with emphasis on theories, protective factors, implementation and
consequences of these approaches.
(3-0) R
CRIM 6323 Violence and Gun Control
(3 semester hours) The primary purpose of this course
is to examine the facts surrounding one of the most heated issues of our times:
the relationship between guns, violence and gun control. The course provides a
comprehensive criminological view of the topic rather than a political or legal
one. Students will learn about evaluating evidence, the "stricter gun
law" debate, flaws in arguments on both sides of issue, as well as tricks
used by advocates to persuade people to agree with their point of view. (3-0) R
CRIM 6324 Correlates of Crime and Justice (3 semester hours) This
course is intended to examine
the nature, relationships, attributes and indices at the situational and
aggregate levels to various forms of crime and systems of justice. (3-0) R
CRIM 6332 GIS Applications in Criminology (3 semester hours) This course will examine spatial
distributions of crime, criminals, and criminal justice interventions. Students
conduct spatial analysis of point patterns within specific area-based data,
locations of crime events and rates, offenders, police patrolling practices,
judicial districts and community corrections and the manner in which they
relate to physical and social characteristics of neighborhoods. (3-0) R
CRIM 6348 Drugs and Crime (3 semester hours) This course provides
students with a survey of the historical context of the legislative initiatives
that have been attempted to combat the use of drugs, the relationship between
drug use/abuse and crime and the crime and the public policy problems
surrounding the control of drugs. (3-0) R
CRIM 6v90 Thesis Writing Research
(1-6 semester hours) Students conduct master’s level research project under the
supervision of faculty. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor required.
([1-6]-0) R
CRIM 6V98 Analytical Writing Research (1-9 semester hours) Students
perform independent research under the supervision of faculty. May be repeated
for credit.
([1-9]-0) R
CRIM 7300 Advances in Criminology Theory
(3 semester hours) This course examines contemporary
criminological theories and the degree to which research has provided empirical
support for explanations of crime and criminality. (3-0) Y
CRIM 7301
Seminar in Criminology Research and Analysis
(3 semester hours) This course examines a variety of quantitative
methods and procedures used in criminological research. Students will plan and execute an independent advanced
research project. Need working topic for Dissertation and dataset is
preferred. Prerequisites: EPPS 6310 and EPPS 6313 and EPPS 6316 or equivalent.
Permission of instructor required. (3-0) Y
CRIM
7310 Advanced Quantitative Methods in Criminology (3 semester hours) This course is designed
to be an extension to CRIM 7301. Quantitative research techniques not
covered in 7301 will be addressed at depth as they apply to longitudinal and
multilevel criminological research. Topics may include, but are not limited, to
structural equation modeling (SEM), multilevel growth curve modeling, growth
mixture models, panel regression, propensity score matching, and latent class
analysis. Topics may vary by semester and may be tailored to fit students’
research needs. Enrollment Requirements: All students must have successfully
completed CRIM 7301 with a B or better. Students should have a firm
understanding of varying regression techniques, etc. prior to enrolling.
Prerequisites: CRIM 7301. Permission of instructor required. (3-0) Y
CRIM 7342 Qualitative Criminology (3 semester hours) This course will examines
ethnography and other qualitative approaches to studying crime, criminals, and
criminal justice, particularly participant observation and informant and
respondent interviewing. Topics include phenomenology, case study, in-depth
interviewing, ethnomethodology, conversation analysis, historical methods,
gaining access, sampling, data collection and analysis, and legal and ethical
concerns. (3-0) R
CRIM 7351 Advanced Criminological Theory Seminar (3 semester hours)
Topics will vary from semester to semester on various criminological theories. Prerequisites:
Students must complete CRIM 6303 and CRIM 7300 prior to enrolling. Consult with
advisor to determine appropriateness for degree plan and specialty areas of
study. May
be repeated for credit as topics vary (9 elective hours maximum). (3-0) R
CRIM 7381 Special Topics in Criminology (3 semester hours) Topics vary
from semester to semester. Prerequisite: Consult with advisor to determine
appropriateness for degree plan and specialty areas of study. May be repeated
for credit as topics vary (9 elective hours maximum). (3-0) R
CRIM 8V01 Independent Study (1-12 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision for student’s
individual study of a topic agreed upon by the student and the faculty
supervisor. Student performance is assessed by
instructor as pass/fail only. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor required. May be repeated
for elective credit (9 hours maximum for MS students and 12 hours maximum for
PhD students).
Can be applied for credit additionally at the discretion of
the program on a case-by-case basis. ([1-12]-0) R
CRIM 8V99 Dissertation (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision of a student’s
dissertation research. Prerequisite: Permission of
instructor required. May be repeated as necessary for credit. ([1-9]-0) Y
Economics
ECON 5322 Macroeconomic Theory for Applications (3 semester hours) For
Master of Science students only. Development of modern macroeconomic
theory, including national income accounts and their relation to input-output
tables; classical, Keynesian, and monetarist aggregate models; behavior hypotheses
of consumption, investment, and government; properties and the role of money
and interest; foreign trade and investment; price rigidity, price flexibility,
and employment; wage-price interaction and inflation; unemployment; and ad hoc
stabilization models. MSAE students who intend to enter PhD program in ECON
should take ECON 6302. (3-0) Y
ECON 6109 Econometrics I Lab (1 semester hour) This course uses STATA both as a data analysis tool and a
programming language in econometric analysis. The course parallels ECON
6309, Econometrics I, in the topics covered in econometric data analysis.
Corequisite or prerequisite: ECON 6309. (0-1) R
ECON 6300 Tools for Economic Research
(2-3 semester hours) First two credit hours examines single and multivariate
calculus at a level appropriate for entering PhD and MS students in economics,
functional areas of business, and social sciences. Includes
optimization theory and matrix algebra. Those enrolled in the optional 3rd
credit hour will receive basic instruction in a statistical package (e.g.,
STATA). Pass/fail only. ([2-3]-0) Y
ECON 6301 Microeconomics Theory I (3 semester hours) Modern approaches
to the theory of the firm, the theory of the consumer, and formal relationships
among the various economic functions developed using dual approaches to the
optimization of objectives such as profit maximization, utility maximization,
and cost minimization. Introduction to game theory; and market analysis through
classical/neoclassical and game theoretic approaches. (3-0) Y
ECON 6302 Macroeconomics Theory I (3 semester hours) This course is the first in a sequence of core graduate
macroeconomic theory courses. The main aim is to introduce students to
the methods of deterministic dynamic analyses in economics. The second
aim is to employ those methods in understanding aggregate empirical
regularities as they pertain to economic growth with standard modern
macroeconomic theory. Therefore, primary course aims include a thorough
discussion of non-stochastic dynamics and optimization. Next, using these
methods, exogenous and endogenous growth applications that illustrate the
applied general equilibrium analyses that comprise modern macroeconomic growth theory
are discussed. The course concludes with an introduction to non-stochastic
overlapping generations models and discusses the role of dynamic efficiency in
macroeconomic theory. (3-0) Y
ECON 6305 Mathematical Economics (3 semester hours) Mathematical tools
used in advanced topics model building and in the social and economic analysis
of public policy. (3-0) Y
ECON 6306 Applied Econometrics (3 semester hours) This course investigates the consequences of relaxing the
classical linear regression model assumptions and explores solutions when the
assumptions do not hold. Topics include a review of the OLS basics
(including the assumptions, hypothesis testing, multicolinearity, dummy variables and heteroskedasticity), model specification and selection, GLS, maximum
likelihood estimation, binary choice models, simultaneous equation models,
instrumental variables, and fixed and random effects models. (3-0) Y
ECON 6309 Econometrics I (3 semester hours) An introduction to econometrics, with a development of
background concepts in linear algebra and statistics. The course focuses on
estimation, hypothesis testing, and prediction in the classical linear
regression model. Corresponding large sample issues are considered. General
testing principles, such as likelihood ratio, Wald, Lagrange multiplier, and Hausman-type tests are also discussed. Other topics include model
specification and nonlinear estimation issues. Recommended
prerequisite: ECON 6311.
(3-0) Y
ECON 6311Statistics for Economists (3 semester hours) The
course introduces calculus-based statistical analysis and probability theory,
providing background for econometrics and economic modeling of simple
stochastic processes. Standard probability distributions are covered,
including Bernoulli, binomial, negative binomial, hypergeometric, Poisson, normal, gamma, beta, t and F
distributions. Estimation and hypothesis testing are discussed.
Introductory asymptomatic theory, including the Law(s) of Large Numbers and the
Central Limit Theorem, will be covered as well as real-world applications of
probability theory as time permits. (3-0) Y
ECON 6316 Spatial Econometrics (3 semester hours) The application of econometric techniques to the explicit
treatment of space (geography) in social science models. Covers the
specification of spatial regression models, estimation and specification testing. The emphasis is on the application of spatial econometric
methods to an empirical data analysis project. Prerequisite: ECON 6306 or ECON
6309. (3-0)
R
ECON 6320 Game
Theory for the Social Sciences (3
semester hours) Non-technical survey of game theory
and its applications in the social sciences.
Introduction
to concepts such as dominant strategies, Nash equilibrium, evolutionary
stability, repeated games, and games with incomplete information. Applications include collective action, conflict,
bargaining, the evolution of altruism and cooperation, and signaling.
(3-0) R
ECON 6321 Financial Economics I (3 semester hours) A
course in quantitative methods for investment analysis, supplemented with
detailed descriptions of the prominent players and the rules of the game which
prevail in major U.S. financial markets. Security valuation, fixed income
pricing formulas, and basic portfolio management are covered. The key concepts
and outstanding debates surrounding the efficient market hypothesis are introduced.
(3-0) R
ECON 6322 Financial Economics II (3 semester hours) Continuation of
Financial Economics I. It covers core concepts in portfolio theory
within the mean-variance framework, focusing on the problem of choosing a point
on the efficient set. Additional topics to be covered include the CAPM model,
arbitrage pricing theory, bond analysis, and the basics of the term structure.
(3-0) R
ECON 6331 Labor Economics I (3 semester hours) Labor economics is the
branch of economics that deals with how labor markets function. Topics covered
will include labor supply, retirement, wage structure, inequality in earnings, discrimination, and
labor market frictions. This course is one of two courses in the nonsequential course offerings in graduate labor economics. (3-0) R
ECON 6332 Labor Economics II (3 semester hours) This course continues
the study of theoretical and applied research of labor markets from Labor
Economics I. Topics studied include demand for labor, wage setting
institutions, wage structure, investment in human capital, and labor mobility.
Labor Economics I is not a prerequisite for Labor Economics II. (3-0) R
ECON 6335
Health Economics
(3 semester hours) Economic analysis of the health care industry to explain the
demand for and supply of medical care.
Includes
analysis of behavior of consumers, producers, and insurers; and public policies
to regulate the industry and to provide services for the various segments of
the population. (3-0) R
ECON 6336 Economics of Education (3 semester hours) This seminar examines theoretical and empirical writings
relating to educational policy. The issues considered will include the link
between educational achievement and earnings, the role of early childhood,
assessments of head start and pre-school programs, the effectiveness of
compensatory education and tutoring programs, the large and persistent
achievement gap between children from minority and low-income families and
those from middle-income Asian and white families, a critical examination of
educational production functions, the extent and consequences of school
segregation, bilingual education programs, special education programs,
international comparisons of student achievement and schools, school finance
and an examination of various school reform proposals. (3-0) R
ECON 6340
Industrial Organization
(3 semester hours) Market structure, firm conduct, and economic performance of
business with emphasis on firms’ strategic behavior in price and nonprice competition.
Topics include oligopoly pricing and production decisions, strategic entry
deterrence, location strategies, product differentiation, advertising, research
and development, and the effects of firms’ conduct on economic welfare and
market structure. (3-0) T
ECON 6343 Economic Regulation of Business (3 semester hours) Studies the
rationale for, and the history and political-economic results of, government
intervention in markets in the form of (1) direct regulation of prices,
quantity, entry and exit, and product quality in industries (utility,
communication, and transportation), and (2) indirect intervention through
antitrust laws and the regulation of advertising. Government deregulation and
changes in antitrust institutions also are explored. Prerequisite: ECON 5321 or
ECON 6301 or PA 7317 or POEC 7317. (3-0) T
ECON 6344 Transfer Pricing (3 semester hours)
The economics of transfer pricing of goods, services, and intellectual property
traded among units (divisions or affiliated firms) of a common parent company.
Multidivisional firms and multinational enterprises use transfer pricing for
coordination of divisional objectives, allocating internal resources, and
maximizing after-tax profits, among other goals. Governments base firms’ tax
liability on transfer prices; so their taxing authorities operate to ensure
transfer prices adequately reflect the value of goods and services, challenging
firms’ established transfer pricing if it is deemed necessary. Legal issues and
methods used by private firms and government agencies for establishing transfer
prices are explored. (3-0) T
ECON 6351 Development Economics (3 semester hours) An overview of theories of national economic growth and
development in the context of developing countries. This includes macroeconomic
models; the role of financial development, trade, and agriculture; domestic sectoral policy; human resource development; the environment;
poverty. (3-0) R
ECON 6352 (POEC 6360) World Political Economy (3 semester hours) An
overview of the major economic, social, political and cultural forces that
influence the nature of the international economic and political environment,
as well as global economic and political relations. Topics include: theories of
global political economy; economic and political transformation in Eastern
Europe, China and the former Soviet Union; democratization and development in
the less developed countries; military and non-military approaches to national
and international security; environmentally sustainable economic development;
and the international implications of technological failure. (3-0) T
ECON 6355 International Trade (3 semester hours) Provides a broad overview of theory and evidence concerning
international trade, direct foreign investment and trade policy. Topics include
scale economies, imperfect competition, and product differentiation, trade
dynamics, economic growth, trade policies, and the political process. (3-0) R
ECON 6356 International Finance (3 semester hours) Financial aspects of growth and income determination in open
economies. Specific topics include financial risk in the international setting;
money and exchange rate regimes; income determination and macroeconomic policy;
history of international monetary arrangements, and current issues in
international monetary reform. (3-0) R
ECON 6361 Public Sector Economics (3 semester hours) Examines the economic role of government in a mixed economy. Surveys why
markets may fail and explores governmental strategies of intervention in light
of these failures. Expenditure and tax policies are
studied with attention to effects on both efficiency and distribution. (3-0) T
ECON 6362 (POEC 6353) Industry, Technology, and Science Policy (3
semester hours) Focuses on the impact of social, economic, and political
factors on industry as critical units of production, and how these interact
with technology and science. Topics include availability of skilled labor,
research and development in industry, business-university relationships,
innovation, and international competitiveness of the U.S. economy. (3-0) Y
ECON 6363 Public Economics I (3 semester hours) A study of
externalities, public goods, club goods and related topics. Pass/Fail graded only. Prerequisite: ECON 5321 or
ECON 6301. (3-0) R
ECON 6371 (SOC 6341) Urban Economics (3 semester hours) Presents methods
and models for understanding urban growth and development processes. Topics
include analysis of urban growth, land use patterns, transportation and local
public good delivery systems. Welfare consequences of various urban policy
options are explored. (3-0) R
ECON 6372 (PA 6342) Local Economic Development (3 semester hours) This
class will examine the role of local governments in promoting economic
development in the United States, and will analyze the economic development
process. Attention will be given to economic theories of local development and
practical implications of those theories. Topics include local economic
development and poverty, tax incentives, infrastructure credits, firm location
decisions and effects of government competition for economic activity. (3-0) S
ECON 6380 Experimental Economics I (3 semester hours) Introduction to
the methodology of laboratory experimental economics, including principles of
experimental design, development of effective protocols, research with human
subjects, and statistical analysis of experimental data, designing experiments
to test theory, experimental measurement of preferences and attitudes, and
market and institutional "wind-tunnel" design. Prerequisites: ECON 6301 and ECON 6309, or instructor’s permission. (3-0)
T
ECON 6V01 Independent Study (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty
supervision for student’s individual study of a topic agreed upon by the
student and the faculty supervisor. Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor. May be repeated
for credit. ([1-9]-0) R
ECON 7301 Microeconomics Theory II (3 semester hours) General
equilibrium theory of markets and welfare economics; discusses the problems of
existence, stability, efficiency, and equity of economic equilibrium; and
introduces social choice and the special problems created by public goods,
externalities, and uncertainty. Recommended
prerequisite: ECON 6301. (3-0) Y
ECON 7302 Macroeconomics Theory II (3 semester hours) This
course is the second in a sequence of core graduate (doctoral level)
macroeconomic theory courses. The main aim is to introduce students to
the methods of stochastic dynamic analyses in economics. The second aim
is to employ those methods in understanding aggregate empirical regularities,
for instance as they pertain to business cycles, with standard modern
macroeconomic theory. Therefore, primary course aims include a thorough
discussion of stochastic dynamics and optimization. Next, using
these methods, applications that illustrate the applied general equilibrium
analyses that comprise: modern macroeconomic business cycle theory,
consumption, asset pricing and topics in ‘behavioral’ macroeconomics are
discussed. Recommended
prerequisite: ECON 6302. (3-0) Y
ECON 7303 Microeconomics Theory III.
Primarily
a course on the role of strategic interdependence in economics using game
theory. Topics include noncooperative games, simultaneous-move games and dynamic games with
applications from a wide variety of fields in economics. (3-0) Y
ECON 7309 Econometrics II (3 semester hours) This is the second core course in the econometrics sequence of
the economics Ph.D. program. The course extends the topics covered in the
first course and covers topics such as serial correlation, unit roots, cointegration, and dynamic models; panel data; simultaneous equations
models; and maximum likelihood and GMM estimation methods. (3-0) Y
ECON 7311 Special Topics in Econometric and Spatial Analysis (3 semester hours) Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated
for credit (9 hours maximum).
However, students may not take more than 3 hours of the field requirement from
ECON 7311. (3-0) R
ECON 7315 Econometrics III (3 semester hours) This is the third core course in the econometrics sequence of
the economics Ph.D. program. The course extends the topics covered in the first
two courses and covers topics such as Bayesian, semiparametric and nonparametric estimation approaches; discrete choice
models, limited dependent variable models and duration models; and bootstrap
and jackknife methods. Prerequisite:
ECON 6310. (3-0) Y
ECON 7316 Game Theory (3 semester hours) Advanced treatment of topics in noncooperative game theory. May also include a brief survey of
cooperative game theory. Major
topics covered include correlated equilibrium, equilibrium refinements,
evolutionary stability and dynamics, multi-level selection, revelation
principle, strategic substitutes and complements, uniqueness and comparative
statics. Prerequisites: GISC 7310 or EPPS 7316 or ECON 6306 or permission of
instructor. (3-0) R
ECON 7321 Special Topics in Labor Economics (3 semester hours) Topics
vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours
maximum). However, students may not take more
than 3 hours of the field requirement from ECON 7321. (3-0) R
ECON 7331 Special Topics in Industrial Organization (3 semester hours)
Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours
maximum). However, students may not take more
than 3 hours of the field requirement from ECON 7331. (3-0) R
ECON 7341 Special Topics in International Development (3 semester hours)
Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours
maximum). However, students may not take more
than 3 hours of the field requirement from ECON 7341. (3-0) R
ECON 7351 Special Topics in Public Economics (3 semester hours) Topics
vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours
maximum). However, students may not take more
than 3 hours of the field requirement from ECON 7351. (3-0) R
ECON 7363 Public Economics II (3 semester hours) A study of
positive and normative theories of taxation, the effect of taxation on
behavior, behavioral public finance and related topics. Pass/Fail graded only.
Prerequisite: ECON 6361 or ECON 6363. (3-0) R
ECON 7381 Special Topics in Experimental and Behavioral
Economics (3 semester hours) Topics vary from
semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours maximum). However, students may not take more than 3 hours of the
field requirement from ECON 7381. (3-0) R
ECON 7391 Special Topics in Economics (3 semester hours) Topics vary
from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours maximum). (3-0)
R
ECON 7V01 Literature Survey/Paper Seminar (3 or 6 semester hours)
Students registering for this seminar work towards the completion of their literature
survey requirement. Course includes oral presentations and progress reports. ([3-6]-0)
R
ECON 7V02 Research in Economics (3-6 semester hours) Topics vary from
semester to semester. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor. ([1-6]-0) R
ECON 7V03 Research Paper Seminar (3-6 semester hours) Students
registering for this seminar work towards the completion of their research
paper requirement. Oral presentations and progress reports. ([3-6]-0)
T
ECON 8V01 Dissertation Seminar (3-9 semester hours) A seminar for
students preparing proposals or writing dissertations. Prerequisite: Successful completion of qualifying
examination or consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit. ([3-9]-0) R
ECON 8V02 Dissertation (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision
of a student’s dissertation research. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. ([1-9]-0) Y
ECON 8V97
Internship
(3-6 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision for a student’s internship. Internships must be related to the student’s course
work. Internships are mainly intended for terminal MSAE students.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. ([1-9]-0) R
EPPS
EPPS 6310 Research Design I (3 semester hours) This course is the first in a two-course sequence devoted to the
research enterprise and the study of data development strategies and techniques
to facilitate effective statistical analysis. Topics generally covered include:
(1) issues and techniques in social science research with emphasis on philosophy
of science, theory testing, and hypothesis formulation; (2) measurement and
data collection strategies, reliability and validity of measures and results,
sampling, surveys; and (3) examination of qualitative versus quantitative
research techniques, working with observational data, field research issues,
and triangulation. (3-0) Y
EPPS 6313 Introduction to Quantitative Methods (3 semester hours) This introductory graduate-level statistics course is geared to
the consumption of statistical methods commonly used in social science
research. Topics include creating and interpreting graphical and tabular
summaries of data, descriptive statistics, basic probability theory, sampling
distributions, basic hypothesis testing (t-tests, chi-square tests, and analysis
of variance), estimation of
population parameters, confidence intervals and correlation. An introduction to
regression analysis will also be provided. Topics are supported by
computer-supported data analyses. (3 semester hours) (3-0) Y
EPPS 6316 Applied Regression (3 semester hours) This course provides a
survey of the bivariate and multiple regression models estimated using Ordinary
Least Squares (OLS), with an emphasis on using regression models to test social
and economic hypotheses. This application-focused course presents examples
drawn from economics, political science, public policy and sociology,
introduces the basic concepts and interpretation of regression models, and
basic methods of inference. Topics are supported by computer-supported
data analyses. Prerequisite: EPPS 6313 or EPPS 7313. (3-0) Y
EPPS 6320 Short Courses in Contemporary
Social Science Research Methods (3 semester hours) This
course is comprised of three short courses that each last two full days over
the course of a calendar year. The
classes are each intensive surveys of modern statistical methods that are used
in the social sciences. Typically, these
classes are taught all day on Thursday/Friday (sometimes Friday/Saturday). In order to get credit, the student must
attend all three classes (six full days) over the course of the year. The class will be offered Spring
semester so the student must have attended the class or classes that were
offered in the Fall semester immediately prior to the semester in which the
student is taking the class for credit. Taught pass/fail
only. (3-0) Y
EPPS 6324 Data Management for Social Science Research (3 credit hours) Covers the principles and
practical techniques of data cleaning, data organization, quality control, and
automation of research tasks. Topics
covered will include data types, useful text and math functions, labeling,
recoding, data documentation, merging datasets, reshaping, and programming
structures such as macros, loops, and branching using Stata
and R. The course will also discuss
using LaTeX to automate outputting of results and
graphics in publishable formats. Prerequisite: EPPS 6313 or EPPS 7313 or permission of instructor. (3-0)
R
EPPS 6342 Research Design II (3 semester hours) This
course is the second in a two-course sequence devoted to the study of data
development strategies and techniques to facilitate effective statistical
analysis. Topics generally covered include: the logic of causal inquiry and
inference in the Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, the elaboration
paradigm and model specification, anticipating and handling threats to internal
validity, hierarchies of design structure (experimental, quasi-experimental and
non-experimental): linking design structure to effect estimation strategies and
analyzing design elements in published literature. Students will be required to
select a research topic in consultation with the instructor and prepare a
written comparative design analysis. Recommended
prerequisites: EPPS 6310, EPPS 6316 or equivalent. (3-0) Y
EPPS 6346 Qualitative Research Methods (3 semester hours) This course provides an overview of qualitative research in
the Economic, Political and Policy Sciences. Students will investigate the
assumptions underlying qualitative research approaches and critically assess
the strengths and weaknesses of such approaches. Possible topics may include
participant observation, ethnographic interviewing, ethnomethodology,
conversation analysis, case study, and the analysis of historical documents.
(3-0) T
EPPS 6352 Evaluation Research Methods in the Economic, Political and Policy
Sciences (3 semester hours) A review of research methods used in program
evaluation, with an emphasis on public and nonprofit social programs. Issues to
be addressed include research design, appropriate performance standards,
measurement and selection of individuals, sampling, data
collection and data analysis. (3-0) Y
EPPS 7304 Cost-Benefit Analysis (3 semester hours) Examines methods for
measuring costs and benefits of public projects and policies, and the
application of cost-benefit analysis to areas such as economic development,
water resources, recreation, transportation, regulation, and the environment.
(3-0) R
EPPS 7313 Descriptive and Inferential Statistics (3 semester hours) The course provides a thorough introduction to probability
and statistics. Probability topics
covered include random variables, expectations, and probability
distributions.< The heart of the course
is a rigorous introduction to statistical inference: sampling theory,
confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. The final section of the course is an introduction to regression
analysis, with an emphasis on interpretation of regression results, using examples
from recent research. Recommended Prerequisite: one semester
of calculus. (3-0) Y
EPPS 7316 Regression and Multivariate Analysis (3 semester hours) This
course provides a detailed examination of the multiple regression models
estimated using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), with an emphasis on using
regression models to test social and economic hypotheses. Also covered are
several special topics in regression analysis, including violations of OLS
assumptions, the use of dummy variables, and fixed effects models. The course
ends with an introduction to advanced topics in regression analysis,
qualitative response models, and non-OLS approaches to estimation. Topics are
supported by computer-supported data analyses using application-specific
software. Prerequisite: EPPS 7313. (3-0) Y
EPPS 7318 Structural Equation and Multilevel (Hierarchical) Modeling (3
semester hours) An introduction to structural equation modeling (SEM) and
multilevel modeling (MLM), sometimes called hierarchical linear or mixed
modeling. SEM represents a general approach to the statistical examination of
the fit of a theoretical model to empirical data. Topics include observed
variable (path) analysis, latent variable models (e.g., confirmatory factor
analysis), and latent variable SEM analyses. MLM represents a general approach
to handling data that are nested within each other or have random components.
Topics include dealing with two-level data that may be cross-sectional, such as
students within classes, or longitudinal, such as repeated observations on
individuals, firms or countries. Recommended prerequisite:
EPPS 7316 or equivalent. Prerequisite: ECON 6306 or ECON 6309 or EPPS
6316 or permission of instructor. (3-0) R
EPPS 7344 Categorical and Limited Dependent Variables (3 semester hours)
This course examines several types of advanced regression models
that are frequently used in policy analysis and social science research. The
key similarity of these models is that they involve dependent variables that
violate one or more of the assumptions of the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS)
regression model. The main models examined in the course are binary logit and probit, multinomial logit, ordinal probit, tobit, and the family of Poisson regression models. All these
models are estimated using maximum likelihood estimation (MLE). The Heckman
correction for selection is also addressed. Recommended
prerequisite: EPPS 7316 or the equivalent. (3-0) Y
EPPS 7368 Spatial Epidemiology (3 semester hours) Examines the
conceptual and analytic tools used to understand how spatial distributions of
exposure impact on processes and patterns of disease. Emphasizes the special design,
measurement, and analysis issues associated with spatial patterns of diseases. Contemporary diseases of public health importance are
addressed, and the statistical and inferential skills are provided that can be
used in understanding how spatial patterns arise and their implications for
intervention. Prerequisite: EPPS 6313 or equivalent. (3-0) R
EPPS 7370 Time Series Analysis (3 semester hours) The course considers
several important topics in applied time series analysis including the
specification and testing Box-Jenkins models and dynamic regressions. Other topics may include forecasting, vector autoregression models, unit root inference, cointegration, autoregressive conditional heterogeneity,
Bayesian time series, and regime switching models. Students also learn how to use modern time
series software. Recommended
prerequisite: EPPS 7316 or equivalent. (3-0) R
EPPS 7386 Survey Research (3 semester hours) This course exposes students to the use of survey methods in
social science research. Emphasis is placed on interview and questionnaire
techniques and the construction and sequencing of survey questions. Attention
is also devoted to sampling theory, sampling and non-sampling errors, and the use
of recent advances in fieldwork to reduce measurement error in surveys. Recommended prerequisite: EPPS 6313 or equivalent. (3-0) R
EPPS 7388 Workshop in Teaching Effectiveness (1-3 credit hours) Workshop
will focus on preparing students for positions as teaching assistants,
lecturers, and those who expect to teach as a career in the Social Sciences.
Emphasis will be placed on videotaped student presentations and feedback, guest
presentations, student visits to EPPS faculty classes. [(1-3)-0] R
EPPS 7390 Bayesian Analysis for Social
and Behavioral Sciences (3 semester hours) This
course covers the theory and application of Bayesian statistics for economic,
political, and other social science data. Students will learn how maximum likelihood and Bayesian estimation are
related and how the latter is used to develop decision based inference. Topics include subjective probability,
general linear models, posterior simulation methods, model specification and
averaging, and sensitivity analysis. Prerequisite: EPPS 7316 or equivalent.
(3-0) R
EPPS 7V81 Special Topics in Social
Science Research Methodology (1-9 semester hours) May be repeated for
credit as topics vary (9 hours maximum). (3-0) R
EPPS 8V95 Frontiers of Social Science
Research Methods (1-6 semester hours) Students working on dissertations or
research papers receive feedback and advice on research methods, the discussion
of methods in their writing, and presentation of results. (3-0) R
Geospatial
Information Sciences
GISC 6311 Statistics for Geospatial Science (3
semester hours) Introduces calculus-based statistical analysis and
probability theory, providing background for econometric and spatial modeling
of simple stochastic processes. Covers standard probability
distributions including Bernoulli, binomial, negative binomial, hypergeometric, Poisson, normal, gamma, beta, t and F
distributions; estimation and hypothesis testing; introductory
asymptomatic theory, including the Law(s) of Large Numbers and the Central
Limit Theorem; real-world applications of probability theory, as time permits.
(3-0) Y
GISC 6317 Computer Programming for GIS (3 semester hours) General
introduction to Visual Basic and other languages with GIS related applications.
Topics covered include fundamental data structures and algorithms,
user-interface design, component object model, and data base management. Emphasis on
rapid GIS application development with hands-on experiences. Students are expected to design and implement a project. (3-0)
Y
GISC 6325 (GEOS 5325) Introduction to Remote Sensing (3 semester hours)
Application of airborne and satellite remote sensing for understanding the
surface of the earth. Focus on interpretation of images obtained by passive and
active imaging systems using electromagnetic radiation, especially visible,
infra-red, and radar. Laboratory course.
(2-3) Y
GISC 6326 Geovisualization
(3 semester hours) Examines the theoretical concepts and practical applications of
cartographic and geographic visualization. Topics covered in lectures include
concepts for geographic data representation, symbolization and map design, and
methods for geographic visualization and display. 3D visualization,
cartographic animation, and web based mapping may also be included. Lab
sessions explore the implementation of cartographic and geographic
visualization with industry standard GIS software. Prerequisite: GISC 6381 or
equivalent knowledge. (3-0) R
GISC 6379 Special Topics in Geographic Information Sciences (3 semester
hours) Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours
maximum). Consult with adviser to determine
appropriateness of topic for degree plan. (3-0) R
GISC 6380 Spatial Concepts and Organization (3 semester
hours) Examines the recurring patterns of physical and human objects on
the Earth’s surface, the flows of circulations among them, and the spatial
concepts and theories which have been advanced to help understand and explain
these spatial arrangements. Provides a fundamental understanding of spatial processes,
concepts, and theories. (3-0) R
GISC 6381 Geographic Information Systems Fundamentals (3 semester hours)
Examines the fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems and
their applications. Emphasizes the concepts needed to use GIS effectively for
manipulating, querying, analyzing, and visualizing spatial-based data.
Industry-standard GIS software is used to analyze spatial patterns in social,
economic and environmental data, and to generate cartographic output from the
analysis. (3-0) Y
GISC 6382 Applied Geographic Information Systems (3 semester hours)
Further develops hands-on skills with industry-standard GIS software for
application in a wide variety of areas including urban infrastructure
management, marketing and location analysis, environmental management, geologic
and geophysical analysis and the Economic, Political and Policy Sciences.
Prerequisite: GISC 6381 or equivalent with instructor’s permission. (3-0) Y
GISC 6383 Geographic Information Systems Management and Implementation
(3 semester hours) Management strategies for GIS are examined by presenting GIS
as an integrated system of people, computer hardware, software, applications
and data. Implementation is examined as a systematic process of user needs
assessment, system specification, database design, application development,
implementation, operation, and maintenance. Includes design of implementation
plans as case studies to explore various techniques associated with each step
of this process. (3-0) Y
GISC 6384
Spatial Analysis and Modeling (3 semester hours) Treatment of more advanced topics in the
application of spatial analysis in a GIS environment. Topics covered include raster-based cartographic modeling,
3-d visualization, geostatistics and network
analysis. Student will be acquainted with state-of–the-art software through
hands-on laboratory experiences. Prerequisite: GISC 6381. (3-0) Y
GISC 6385 GIS Theories, Models and Issues (3 semester hours) Provides an
understanding of the underlying theories, mathematical and geometric tools, and
their computational implementations that establish GIS capabilities to handle
and analyze geo-referenced information. Associated issues (such as uncertainty,
spatial analysis and spatial data management) highlighted. Prerequisite: GISC
6381 and 6382, or equivalent with instructor’s permission. (3-0) Y
GISC 6387 Geographic Information Systems Workshop (3 semester hours)
Provides a structured laboratory experience focused on the students’
substantive area of interest. Each participant develops a project which should
include aspects of database design and manipulation, spatial analysis, and
cartographic production. Projects may be designed in coordination with a local
government, utility, business, or other entity that uses GIS in its operations
and research. Prerequisites: GISC 6381 and GISC 6382. (3-0) Y
GISC 6388 GIS Application Software Development (3 semester hours)
Provides instruction and hands-on experience in specific techniques and
languages for developing application systems based on GIS concepts. Students
will learn to use current generation commercial software to design and
implement an application. Prerequisites: GISC 6381 and GISC 6317, or permission
of instructor. (3-0) R
GISC 6389 Geospatial Information Sciences Master’s Project (3 semester
hours) Requires completion of an original GIS project by the student
working alone or in a team. Team efforts must result in products that can be
associated uniquely with each student. Projects normally continue efforts
started in GISC 6387 or GISC 6386. (3-0) S
GISC 6V01 Independent Study in GIS (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty
supervision for a student’s individual study of a topic agreed upon by the
student and the faculty supervisor. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be repeated
for credit. ([1-9]-0) S
GISC 6V98
Master’s Thesis
(3-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision of a student's master’s
thesis research. Prerequisite: Consent of GIS
Program Head and instructor. May be repeated for credit. ([3-9]-0) S
GISC 7310 Regression Analysis with Spatial Applications (3 semester
hours) The specification, interpretation and properties of the
multiple linear regression model including spatial and aspatial
regression diagnostics are examined. Extensions to the logistic and Poisson
regression models and spatial heterogeneity are provided. A review of the key
concepts of matrix algebra and simulation techniques is given. Practical data
analysis for large datasets is exercised by coupling statistical software with
GIS environments. Prerequisite: GISC 6301 or GISC 6311 or equivalent. (3-0) Y
GISC 7360 GIS Pattern Analysis (3 semester hours) Examines univariate
and multivariate methods for point pattern analysis, geo-statistical surface
interpolations, and spatial regression models. Underlying models and
processes leading to spatially clustered and spatially dispersed patterns are
discussed. Course has particular relevance for local and global spatial
analyses of crime, disease, or environmental patterns. Prerequisites: (GISC
6381 or GISC 6311) and (GISC 6301 or equivalent). (3-0) R
GISC 7361 Spatial Statistics (3 semester hours) The application of statistical techniques to the explicit
treatment of space (geography) in social science models. Covers indices
of spatial autocorrelation, the specification of autoregressive models
(Gaussian, Poisson, binomial/logistic), geostatistical
modeling, spatial filtering, Bayesian map analysis, random effects in models,
and imputation of missing geocoded data.
Recommended prerequisite: GISC 7360. Prerequisite:
GISC 7310 or EPPS 7316 or equivalent. (3-0) R
GISC 7363 Internet Mapping and Information Processing (3 semester hours)
Provides a conceptual overview and hands-on experiences in Internet mapping and
web-based geospatial information processing with state-of-the-art commercial
software. Topics covered included client/server configuration, distributed data
access and display, web-based user interaction and customization. (3-0) T
GISC 7364 Demographic Analysis and Modeling (3
semester hours) Examines key demographic models for population analysis, their
underlying theoretical foundations, and extensions into the spatial domain. Incorporates
quantitative estimation and projection techniques and their use within a
geographic information systems framework.
Provides
a solid understanding of spatio-temporal population
dynamics, either local or global, which is essential to many disciplines
engaged in planning for the public and private service sectors, for
transportation networks or for regional development projects. Prerequisite: EPPS 7313. (3-0) R
GISC 7365 (GEOS
5326) Remote Sensing Digital Image Processing (3 semester hours) Introduction to remote sensing digital
image processing techniques.
Topics covered include principles of remote sensing and remote sensors, image
visualization and statistics extraction, radiometric and geometric correction,
image enhancement, image classification and change detection. Innovative image
processing approaches will also be introduced. State-of-the-art commercial image
processing software is used for labs and applications development. (3-0) Y
GISC 7366 (GEOS 5329) Applied Remote Sensing (3 semester hours) Focuses
on the application of remote sensing techniques to solving real world urban and
environmental problems in areas such as urban and suburban landscape, lane use
and land cover, transportation and communication, vegetation and forestry,
biodiversity and ecology, water and water quality control, soils and minerals,
geology and geomorphology studies. The current generation, industry standard
software is used for labs and applications development. Prerequisite: GISC
6325/GEOS 5325. (3-0) Y
GISC 7367 (GEOS 7327) Remote Sensing Workshop (3 semester hours) An independent project is designed and conducted by the
student, after instructor approval. The project develops and demonstrates
student’s competence in using remote sensing techniques in a substantive
application appropriate to his/her field of interest. Projects may be developed
in coordination with a local government, utility, business, or other entity,
which uses remote sensing in its operations and research. A formal presentation
and a project report are required. Prerequisites: GISC 6381 and GISC 7365/GEOS
5326. (3-0) Y
GISC 7387 GI Sciences Research Design (3 semester hours) Examines issues
relative to the conduct of effective and valid research in geospatial
information sciences and related fields. (3-0)
Y
GISC 7389 GI Sciences Ph.D. Research Project Qualifier (3 semester
hours) Requires completion, according to uniform guidelines established by the
GI Sciences program, of a GI Sciences Research Project and its presentation to
a committee of at least three GI Sciences faculty. May be repeated once in the
immediately following semester. May substitute
for GISC 6389 GI Sciences Master’s Project. Pass/Fail only. Prerequisite: completion of 24 hours
of coursework in GI Sciences Ph.D. program. (3-0) Y
GISC 8320 Seminar in Spatial Analysis (3 semester hours) Examines
selected topics in spatial analysis or GI Science. May be repeated for credit when
topics differ. (3-0) R
GISC 8V27
Internship in GIS
(1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision for a student’s internship,
which must be related to GIS.
([1-9]-0) S
GISC 8V29
Research in GIS
(1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision of research conducted by a
student. Prerequisite: Permission of
instructor. May
be repeated for credit. ([3-9]-0) S
GISC 8V99
Dissertation
(1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision of a student's dissertation
research. Prerequisite: Permission of
instructor. May
be repeated for credit.
([1-9]-0) S
International
Political Economy
IPEC 6v01 Independent Study (1-6 semester hours) Provides
faculty supervision for student’s individual study of a topic agreed upon by
the student and the faculty supervisor. This course can only be taken
Pass/Fail. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be
repeated for credit. ([1-6]-0) R
IPEC 6v97 Internship (1-6 semester hours) Provides faculty
supervision for a student’s internship. Internships must be related to
the student’s coursework. This course can only be taken Pass/Fail. Prerequisite:
Permission of instructor. ([1-6]-0) R
Public
Affairs
PA 6300 Quality and Productivity
Improvement in Government (3 semester
hours) Examines the implications and challenges of improving public sector
quality and productivity. Provides practical methods for improving government
productivity and quality efforts. Provides tools
for measuring performance and for managing performance. (3-0) R
PA 6311 Public Management (3 semester hours) The application of ideas and techniques of public management
and decision making to examine the various roles of the general manager in
public organizations. Utilizes the case method. (3-0) S
PA 6313 (POEC 6323 and PSCI 6313) Public Policymaking and
Institutions (3 semester hours) Surveys the major institutions associated
with policymaking, including Congress, the Presidency, the bureaucracy, and
interest groups. These institutions are studied by linking them to the
decision-making theories of organizations, social choice and incrementalism. (3-0) S
PA 6316 Leadership in Public and Nonprofit Management (3 semester hours) This course will
examine the major theories and practices of leadership in public and nonprofit
organizations. Effective leaders from public and nonprofit organizations
will speak to the class about the challenges of leading in complex
environments. (3-0) R
PA 6317 (PSCI 6317) Intergovernmental/Intersectoral
Relations and Management (3
semester hours) This course explores the conceptual
foundations of federalism that prescribe the relationships among federal and
state governments in the U.S. It considers the practice if intergovernmental
administration (federal, state, local) and intersectoral
management (public, private, nonprofit) including devolution, fiscal
federalism, and through a review of current issues in the field. (3-0) Y
PA 6318 Information Systems
in Policy Environments (3 semester hours) Overview of the technology,
role and management of computer-based information systems in policy
environments. Provides the managerial foundation
for effective decision making with respect to information technology
implementation in public organizations.
(3-0) Y
PA 6319 Topics in Public Affairs (3 semester hours) Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated to a maximum of 9
hours. (3-0) S
PA 6320 Organizational Theory (3 semester hours) Focuses on bureaucracy and rationality, formal and informal
structures, and the role of the environment. Organizational factors such as
technology, power, information, and culture, as well as the implications of
organizational theory for public policy are examined. (3-0) T
PA 6321 Government Financial Management and Budgeting (3 semester hours)
Management of government finances, including revenue collection and
enforcement, cash and debt management, investments, general and special funds,
controllership, financial and program audits, purchasing, financial reporting,
managerial use of governmental accounting systems, GAO and professional
accounting standards. (3-0) S
PA 6324 Community Planning (3 semester hours) This course examines local issues involving growth and
development on the local level of government. Specifically, it examines
land use planning, zoning, subdivision regulations, and the processes that are
involved with these issues. (3-0) R
PA 6326 Decision Tools for Managers (3 semester hours) This course introduces students to the variety of analytical and
mathematical tools intended to improve management decision making. Cognitive
failures in decision-making and remedies are also explored. Tools range from
systems analysis to techniques of management science. Uses available software for
management science studies.
(3-0) Y
PA 6327 Land Use Law and Ethics (3 semester hours) This course covers two key elements of the planning profession:
ethics and law as they relate to plan implementation. Community planning
actions and decisions can impact the social and economic welfare of people,
neighborhoods, cities, and regions in nontrivial ways. Ethics play an important
role in guiding the planner; telling us what we should do. (3-0) Y
PA 6328 Management Process and Analysis (3 semester hours) This course examines rigorous methods for analyzing management
processes and decision making. Focuses on the examination, critique and design of
management systems. Examines
various methods for improving organizational performance. (3-0) T
PA 6330 Basics of Land Development (3 semester hours) Land
development is the conversion of land from one use to another. This course
emphasizes key concepts of land use practices utilized by local governments in
the Dallas metroplex. Land use planning includes use for residential,
commercial, industrial, as well as recreational, educational, social, and
cultural activities. (3-0) Y
PA 6335 Resource Development for Nonprofit Organizations (3
semester hours) This course
examines sources of revenue for nonprofit organizations. Specific topics
include fundraising, grant writing, and donor dynamics. The course is designed
to prepare the student to work effectively as a member of a fundraising team –
either as staff or volunteer board member. (3-0) R
PA 6337 Capital Budgeting (3 semester hours) This
course analyzes capital planning and budgeting as central features to economic
development, transportation, communication, and to the delivery of other
essential services. The course details the steps needed to provide the physical
structure of local government, from selecting capital projects to planning how
to pay for those projects to structuring and selling debt. (3-0) R
PA 6342 (ECON 6372) Local Economic Development (3 semester hours) This
class will examine the role of local governments in promoting economic
development in the United States, and will analyze the economic development
process. Attention will be given to economic theories of local development and
practical implications of those theories. Topics include local economic
development and poverty, tax incentives, infrastructure credits, firm location
decisions and effects of government competition for economic activity. (3-0) S
PA 6344 Local Government Management (3 semester hours) This course examines structure of local governments, the roles
of key elected and appointed officials, and numerous issues and problems that
local government managers and policymakers face. It also presents for
discussion and study some of the best management practices that local
government managers use in achieving effective and efficient delivery of
services. There is a focus on local government management in the Dallas
metro area through interaction with elected and appointed officials. (3-0) T
PA 6345 Human Resources Management (3 semester hours) Examines theories,
principles, and practices of human resources management in public
organizations. Explores implications of social and administrative values as
expressed in current human resource policies. (3-0) S
PA 6348 Navigating the Government Workplace (3 semester hours) The governmental workplace is often a complicated work environment
with numerous stakeholders. This practical course explores the challenges
that public managers face at all levels of government in having successful
careers. (3-0) Y
PA 6351 Introduction to Homeland Security (3
semester hours) This course
provides a comprehensive overview of the structure of Homeland Security, its
origins and developing trends and challenges. Selected material from
Congress, FEMA, Department of Justice, local, state, and other government and
non-government agencies will be studied. Examines both historical and
contemporary Homeland Defense and Security issues. (3-0) R
PA 6353 Emergency Management (3 semester hours) This course examines issues related to the management of
emergencies including discussion of emergency preparedness, emergency
mitigation, and emergency response. The course will also discuss the
interplay of local, state, and federal actors in emergency response as well as
the role of government, private, and nonprofit organizations in emergency
response. (3-0) T
PA 6354 Transportation Planning (3 semester hours) Transportation planning is the
process of making useful information available to decision-makers at the
organizational level to better understand the characteristics and constraints
of transportation systems. This class explores transportation planning
processes, the characteristics of urban travel, as well as management and
analytical techniques that deal with the dynamics of urbanization and land use.
(3-0) R
PA 6369 Grant Writing and Management (3 semester hours) This course provides the skills and knowledge to
seek, solicit, and receive grant awards from foundation and government sources
to support public and nonprofit programs and projects. Also covered are the
skill sets necessary to manage grants effectively to provide the greatest value
to your organization and to the granting agency. (3-0) Y
PA 6370 Project and Contract Management (3 semester hours) This
course examines issues related to the management of large projects with
particular attention to the management of contracts and grants to third
parties. This course will discuss the justifications for contracting out
public work, methods of oversight of contracts, and the steps in planning these
large projects. The course will also discuss the implications of project
planning for grant writing. (3-0) T
PA 6371 Pre-emptive Strategies and Tactics
for Homeland Security
(3 semester hours) Provides a comprehensive study of
formulating pre-emptive strategies and tactics related to terrorist attacks and
certain man-made disasters, such as a chemical plant explosions. This course is
a field-based application. Explores current published pre-emptive strategies
and tactics, means and methods for improving current plans and explores new
pre-emptive strategies and tactics driven by new intelligence assessments.
(3-0) T
PA 6374 Financial Management for Nonprofit Organizations (3 semester
hours) This course introduces the basic concepts of third sector
financial literacy. Curriculum includes financial planning and budgeting,
monitoring of contracts and grants, and reporting mechanisms. (3-0) R
PA 6380 (SOC 6380) Nonprofit Organizations (3 semester hours) This course examines issues related to the rise, scope,
development, and impact of nonprofit organizations. The course explores
both the unique missions of nonprofit organizations and the management
challenges posed by this expanding sector. (3-0) T
PA 6382 (SOC 6381) Nonprofit Management (3 semester hours) This course examines issues, strategies, and techniques related
to executive leadership and management in nonprofit organizations. (3-0)
R
PA 7305 Leadership of Public and Nonprofit Organizations (3 semester
hours) Examines the range of contemporary theories of leadership with
particular emphasis on Public and Nonprofit organizations. Explores cases
of leadership success and failure in these environments. Examines the set of actions and behaviors requisite for
leading contemporary organizations.
(3-0) Y
PA 7307 Information Sharing and
Communication for Homeland Security (3 semester hours) Provides
a comprehensive overview of the structure of network, organizational and group
information sharing and communication. Focuses include new theories and
applications to information sharing and communication and intelligence
gathering techniques of state and local fusion centers. (3-0) R
PA 7308 Social Networks and Intelligence Led
Policing (3 semester hours) Provides a
comprehensive study of concepts and methods for adopting intelligence as a
foundation of law enforcement business operations for sound decision-making.
Exploiting social networks is a primary
means for preventing terrorism and crime. The course explores how intelligence
led policing depends on creating
strong community social networks to enhance policing of criminal networks.
(3-0) R
PA 7309 Protecting Critical Resources and
Infrastructure (3 semester hours) Includes a
comprehensive study of the current plans and policies in place for protecting
critical resources and infrastructure, both public and private. The class will
consist of a thorough review of the current literature pertaining to critical infrastructure protection policies, methods,
plans, and identify new technology driven critical infrastructures. (3-0) R
PA 7311 Models and Tools of Change Management (3 semester hours) Examines the set of theories and models of change management as they
relate to organizational change. Provides applied tools for enacting change in
a variety of organizational environments. Provides tools for adapting models
of change to scope and scale of changes required. (3-0) Y
PA 7317 (POEC 7317) Economics for Public Policy (3 semester hours)
Economics for Public Policy is a doctoral level course designed to introduce
students to the use of economic methods of the analysis of public policy. While
the primary theoretical framework for the course is microeconomics, the course
also includes macroeconomics. A variety of public policy topics are covered in
the course such as education and education reform, employment and the labor
market, taxes and redistribution, health and health care, poverty and
inequality, and public assistance programs. A central theme in the course is
the role of the government. (3-0) S
PA 7318 (POEC 7318) Ethics, Culture and Public Responsibility (3
semester hours) This course provides a general consideration of traditions of
ethical thought, the interactions between personal behavior and cultural
groups/norms and the implementation of public responsibility. Topics to be
considered shall include tensions between personal and collective goals, the
nature and limits of tolerance, and the role of institutions such as the
family, government, business, churches and interest groups. (3-0) S
PA 7322 Negotiations for Effective Management (3 semester hours)
Students in this course will learn about negotiations, principally in the
public sector, and will develop and practice skills to become more proficient
negotiators and more efficient managers. The course will be a combination of
learning about negotiations and participating in exercises and simulated
negotiations. The exercises and simulations reinforce theories about the role
of negotiations in effective management and enable students to develop their
own negotiation skills. (3-0) Y
PA 7325 Survey of Public Affairs (3 semester hours) This class examines
current issues and challenges in the field of public affairs, with emphasis on
the four fields that comprise the PHD program: leadership, change and conflict
resolution; social policy and development; decision-making; and management and
organizational analysis. The concept and practice of action research will also
be explored within the context of public affairs. Open only to PhD students in
Public Affairs. (3-0) Y
PA 7328 Economic Theory for Public Affairs (3 semester hours) This
course examines concepts and analytical tools of economics and demonstrates how
these concepts are used in analyzing public policy problems and designing
appropriate responses. Following an exposition of the basic theoretical and
analytical concepts in a public policy context, the course examines the role
and limitations of economics in public policy making. (3-0) R
PA 7330 Research Design in Public Affairs (3 semester hours) Includes a variety of applied research techniques aimed at enhancing
analysis of intra-organizational and extra-organizational settings. Both
qualitative and quantitative techniques will be explored and applied.
Techniques range from ethnographic analysis of organizational and social
cultures to development of survey research methods for needs assessment,
environmental sensing and marketing. Prerequisite: EPPS 6313 or equivalent.
(3-0) Y
PA 7332 Legal Environment of Public Affairs (3 semester hours) This
class explores how the law affects the operation, management and environment of
public and nonprofit organizations. Examines topics ranging from
administrative law to legal relationships with other governmental and nonprofit
entities. (3-0) R
PA 7338 Seminar in Human Resources (3 semester hours) This course is an
advanced seminar for PhD students in Public Affairs that will include readings
and research on the broader human resource issues in the public and nonprofit
workplace. (3-0) Y
PA 7375 Nonprofit Organizations: Theory and Practice (3 semester hours) This class explores the leading theories of nonprofit
organizations. Examines the unique elements of nonprofit organizations and
the academic and practical challenges produced by these distinctive elements. Examines how theory is applied to the practice of
management in nonprofit organizations. (3-0) Y
PA 7381 Special Topics in Public Affairs (3 semester hours) Topics vary
semester to semester and are rotated typically among the major fields within
the program. May
be repeated for credit (9 hours maximum).
(3-0) R
PA 7V26 Policy Research Workshop in Institutions and Processes (3-9
semester hours) Students join a faculty member in a group research project on
the political economy of public policy decisions in the context of
institutional settings, such as legislatures, executive or administrative agencies,
courts, or metropolitan systems. (May be repeated for credit [12
hours maximum]. However, MPA or doctoral students
may not take any more than 3 hours of their concentration requirement from POEC
7330.) ([3-9]-0) T
PA 7V62 Policy Research Workshop in Public Affairs: CAPSTONE (3 semester
hours) The capstone in public affairs is the
culminating experience for graduating MPA students. Students integrate
knowledge from across the MPA curriculum in a faculty-directed semester-long
applied research project. (3-0) Y
PA 8340 Dissertation Seminar in Public Affairs (3 semester hours) Students
will explore current issues in public affairs of relevance to their field
experiences. The course will focus on the identification of these current
issues as sources and challenges for ongoing research in public affairs. May be repeated. Prerequisite: Permission of the Program
Director. (3-0) S
PA 8V01 Independent Study (1- 9 semester hours) Students will work with
a faculty member to develop an individualized course of study relevant to
public affairs. May be repeated for credit. ([1-9]-0) S
PA 8V97 Internship (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision for a student’s internship.
Internships must be related to the student’s course work. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Consent of
instructor. ([1-9]-0) S
PA 8V99 Dissertation (1-9 semester hours) May be repeated. Total hours
may not exceed 18 semester hours. Students will design and implement an
improvement effort within an organization in their chosen field of
specialization. The goal of this course is to provide students an applied
experience dealing with the challenges of institutional and organizational
change. Prerequisite: Permission of the Program Director. ([1-9]-0) Y
Political
Science
PSCI 5306 The American
Legal System and the Practice of Law (3
semester hours) The American legal system will be examined through seminar
presentations by speakers experienced in judging and in legal practice. (3-0) Y
PSCI 5307 Legal Reasoning and Writing (3 semester hours) The process of reaching legal decisions by relying on
precedent, history, policy concerns, and tradition will be studied.
Additionally, techniques for researching and citing case law and statures will
be examined. (3-0) Y
PSCI 5308 Immigration Law (3
semester hours) This course will cover the core body
of immigration law and regulation in the United States, with a special emphasis
on asylum law. (3-0) T
PSCI 6300 Proseminar in
Comparative Politics and International Relations (3 semester hours) Studies major theories of democracy,
democratization and globalization, relationships between democratization and
globalization, and their implications for citizen politics, government
performance, and regime legitimacy. (3-0) Y
PSCI 6301 Constitutional Law (3 semester hours) This class addresses the evolution of the American
Constitution. The course will examine major constitutional concepts that
are important to an understanding of American Government. Additionally,
major interpretations of the Constitution and the role of courts in the
American legal system will be explored. (3-0) Y
PSCI 6304 Internship in Constitutional Law Studies (3 semester hours) Students will gain practical legal experience by working as an
intern in a law office, court, or in the office of a legal organization such as
a district attorney's or public defender's office. (3-0) Y
PSCI 6305 Workshop in Constitutional Law Studies (3 semester hours)
Students will undertake a major research topic on a law-related matter which
will develop skills in legal research and writing, quantitative research, or
field research. (3-0) Y
PSCI 6306 Human Rights and International Law (3 semester hours) This
course explores international agreements and their effects on individual rights
in a variety of contexts such as international conflicts, civil wars, and
oppressive political regimes. (3-0) R
PSCI 6308 International Organizations
(3 semester hours) An analysis of international
intergovernmental organizations such as the United Nations, the International
Monetary Fund, and the European Union. Topics include their historical
development, internal political processes, and consequences for the
international political system. (3-0) T
PSCI 6309 International Political Economy and Organizations (3 semester
hours) An integration of the international relations and
international economics. The politics of international trade and finance, or
economic globalization, investigates the simultaneous pursuit of wealth and
power in states and other international actors. (3-0) T
PSCI 6311 Proseminar in Law and Courts (3
semester hours) The purpose of
this graduate seminar is to survey the different areas of
empirical/quantitative research in the subfield of judicial politics. The
course will assess the courts as political institutions and examine the
interactions between the judiciary and other institutions. We will address the
core theoretical debates and assess key methodological issues concerning
judicial decision-making in the U.S. context. We will also place these debates within
the growing body of comparative judicial behavior literature. (3-0) Y
PSCI 6312
Comparative Constitutions and Courts (3 semester hours) The purpose of
this graduate seminar is to survey the growing body of comparative research on
constitutions and courts. The course will examine both qualitative and
quantitative research that examines the development of constitutions and
courts, particularly in newly independent states or states transitioning from
authoritarian regimes. We will address the core theoretical debates and
research concerning 1) why states adopt these documents and legal institutions
and 2) the role these institutions ultimately play in transitioning states,
especially in regard to the rights protection. These examinations will span
comparative politics, international relations, and the broader sub-field of
public law. (3-0) R
PSCI 6313 (PA 6323 and POEC 6313) Public Policymaking and Institutions
(3 semester hours) Surveys the major institutions associated with policymaking,
including Congress, the Presidency, the bureaucracy, and interest groups. These
institutions are studied by linking them to the decision-making theories or
organizations, social choice and incrementalism.
(3-0) S
PSCI 6314 Policy Processes, Implementation and Evaluation (3 semester
hours) Applies models of the policy system to the analysis of legislative,
administrative and judicial processes at different points in the policy cycle. Uses case
studies, empirical analysis, direct observation, and group projects. Prerequisite: PSCI 6313 or permission of instructor. (3-0)
Y
PSCI 6315 Judicial Selection (3
semester hours) This is a course that focuses on the
ways in which political systems place judges on courts. We will focus primarily
on American courts, with our time split evenly between the appointive systems
used by the federal government and some states and the elective systems used by
most other states. We will also discuss the methods used in other countries for
the selection of judges. (3-0) R
PSCI 6317 (PA 6317) Intergovernmental/Intersectoral
Relations and Management (3
semester hours) This course explores the conceptual
foundations of federalism that prescribe the relationships among federal and
state governments in the U.S. It considers the practice if intergovernmental
administration (federal, state, local) and intersectoral
management (public, private, nonprofit) including devolution, fiscal
federalism, and through a review of current issues in the field. (3-0) Y
PSCI 6323 Public Choice (3 semester hours) This course covers the application of economic reasoning to
non-market decision making in situations involving collective choice.
Topics include market and government failure, collective action, properties of
different voting rules, design of constitutions, and the behavior of
candidates, elected officials, bureaucrats, and voters. Recommended prerequisite: POEC/PA 7317 or equivalent. (3-0)
R
PSCI 6324 Local and State Government and Politics (3 semester hours)
Examines public policy institutions and processes at the local and state levels
in the United States, with particular attention to developments in the
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and the State of Texas.
Addresses
issues of policy convergence, divergence, and representation. (3-0) R
PSCI 6325 Decision Theory (3 semester hours) Explores the development of decision-making models and theories
across organizational and institutional environments. Includes details analysis of
decision making under conditions of certainty, risk and uncertainty. (3-0) T
PSCI 6330 Campaigns and Elections (3 semester hours) This course surveys the state of the art research on campaigns
and elections in American politics with a focus Congressional and Presidential
elections. (3-0) T
PSCI 6331 Executives, Legislatures and Public Policy (3 semester hours) An investigation of the role played by executives and
legislatures in shaping public policy in the United States. (3-0) T
PSCI 6332 The U.S. Congress (3 semester hours) This course examines the most recent research on the legislative
branch of the United States. We examine the role of parties, incumbency,
elections, and organized interests on who gets elected to Congress, how
Congress organizes itself, and how Congress makes public policy. (3-0) T
PSCI 6333 Political and Civic Organizations (3 semester hours) An
institutional perspective on political parties, interest groups, and other
organizations such as labor unions and nonprofit organizations that are
important actors in political and civic affairs. The emphasis is on
internal operations of organizations, their strategic behavior, and
interactions with government, including both regulation by the state and
attempts to influence public decision makers. (3-0) T
PSCI 6335 (POEC 6335) Institutions and Development (3 semester hours) An
overview of leading theories, institutional perspectives, issues and policy
debates concerning urban, regional, national and global development. Topics may
include economic growth, technology and innovation, shifts in industrial
structure, spatially imbalanced change, and their welfare consequences. (3-0) T
PSCI 6337 Comparative
Institutions (3 semester
hours) A comparative analysis of political and economic institutions in
different settings. Includes a consideration of
different theoretical approaches to the comparative study and design of
institutions in the United States and elsewhere. (3-0) T
PSCI 6339 Election Law and Electoral Systems (3 semester hours) An examination of election law in America from redistricting
to ballot access to campaign finance. We also spend time looking at
different electoral systems in the U.S. and around the world. (3-0) R
PSCI 6340 Texas Legislative Affairs Workshop (3 semester hours) The
Texas Legislative workshop is a course offered during semesters when the Texas
Legislature is in session. This course is designed to afford students the
opportunity to explore the working of the Texas Legislature up close with
sessions held in both Dallas and Austin. Students enrolled in this
course will have the opportunity to interact with members of the Texas
Legislature and their staff as they examine the current public policy issues
confronting Texas. (3-0) T
PSCI 6341 Texas Legislative Process (3 semester hours) This course examines the legislative process in the Texas
Legislature. Students will learn the intricacies of passing legislation by
examining the constitutional rules of Texas’ lawmaking and the evolution of
each chamber’s parliamentary rules. This course also offers a practical
element as specific case studies are examined to illustrate the importance of
legislative process in Texas. (3-0) T
PSCI 6343 Law and The Policy Process (3 semester hours) Provides the legal perspective on public policy and emphasizes the
role of the judicial system in the recent evolution of public policy in
selected problem areas. (3-0) T
PSCI 6350 Logic, Methodology, and Scope of Political Science (3 semester
hours) Promotes understanding of how and why research projects are conducted,
and when and why research programs cease to contribute to knowledge production.
Attention also is paid to major modes of analysis in Political Science, the
state of the discipline, and future directions in field-specific, cross-field,
and cross-disciplinary research. (3-0) T
PSCI 6352 Empirical Democratic Theory (3 semester hours) Encourages
critical and constructive thinking about complex and simple, as well as stable
and variable, developments in citizenship, government, and politics. Additional
consideration is given to formal, game-theoretic, and other approaches to individual
action, institutional design, and individual-institutional interactions. (3-0)
T
PSCI 6353 Mathematical Models in Political and Social Science (3
semester hours) Introduces students to a variety of models in the Economic, Political
and Policy Sciences, including primarily rational choice approaches but also
some computational work. The course will allow students to understand and
compose rudimentary models, including prisoner’s dilemma, assurance games, and
strategic voting. (3-0) T
PSCI 6357 (POEC 6357) Political Economy of Latin America (3 semester
hours) Addresses historical and contemporary issues
in Latin American political economy. Uses case studies and
cross-regional comparisons to assess competing explanations. Analyzes the current
political and economic situation facing Latin America in its quest for economic
growth and development. The emphasis
is to understand the broad patterns of development and change in the region and
the physical, historical, social and economic
constraints which have affected development, broadly understood. (3-0) R
PSCI 6358 Refugee and Migration Policy
(3 semester hours) This course will examine core policy issues related to
refugees, migration, trafficking, forced migration, internally displaced
person. The course will survey relevant
political and social science literature, and seek to understand these issues in
the context of theories within international relations, comparative politics,
and international law. (3-0) T
PSCI 6361 (POEC 6361) Political Violence and Terrorism (3 semester
hours) In this discussion-based
seminar, we will cover the topics of terrorism, political violence, and civil
war. We will examine concepts, causes, and consequences of
different types of political violence. Additionally, we will discuss
topics relevant to research, including discussions of different approaches
(quantitative, qualitative, and formal) and a perusal of different data
sources. We will take advantage of literature from multiple
disciplines. (3-0) T
PSCI 6362 (POEC 6362) Political Development (3 semester hours) This course surveys different perspectives on and theories of
political development. Topics covered include the role of the state,
democratization, political stability, civil society and environmental concerns.
(3-0) R
PSCI 6363 (POEC 6363) Conflict and Development (3 semester hours) This module will explore the nexus between violent intrastate
conflict and development. It will examine some of the key conceptual frameworks
advanced to understand conflict and will explore specific themes which have
preoccupied researchers and policy practitioners in recent years. In addition
to assessing the economic costs of the conflicts, this course will also examine
the traditional factors that have been purported to explain the prevalence of
insurgency. (3-0) R
PSCI 6364 Public Opinion and Survey Research (3 semester hours)
Introduces students to the principles and practices of survey research.
Topics include the selection of an appropriate survey method, questionnaire
design and testing, response problems, interviews and surveys, and the analysis
of survey data, including those on political attitudes and public opinion
dynamics. Also examines how these data are used in developing successful
political campaign strategies. (3-0) T
PSCI 6v42 Legislative Affairs Internship (1-6 semester hours) Students will work with the professor to
identify with a relevant government office approved by the professor. Students
will be asked to participate in the daily operations of that office and learn
the intricacies of staffing from a first-hand perspective. ([1-6]-0) S
PSCI 7320 (POEC 7320) International Negotiations (3 semester hours) This course examines both the substance and the process of
international negotiations. Students study the theory and analysis of
negotiations and identify issues, interests and positions of the parties. The
course covers the substantive areas of arms control, trade, and environmental
negotiations. The course moves from the analysis of simple, bilateral
negotiations with only a few issues in contention to complex multilateral
negotiations. (3-0) R
PSCI 7330 Contemporary International Security (3 semester hours) An examination of current
research on security and interstate conflict, with emphasis on
social-scientific explanations for why wars occur and how they can be
prevented. The course begins with theories of war and models of crisis
bargaining, then proceeds to empirical analysis of how war-making is affected
by such factors as regime type, domestic audiences, economic interdependence,
multinational production, balances of power, environmental and demographic
pressures, intergovernmental organizations, American hegemony, international
hierarchies, and social networks. (3-0)
T
PSCI 7350 Institutions and Citizen Behavior (3 semester hours) Examines
the major theories, concepts and models associated with relationships between
public institutions and citizen behavior, particularly how such institutions as
elections, interest groups, political parties and social movements mobilize
behavior and how behavior, in turn, influences institutional processes and
outcomes. (3-0) T
PSCI 7352 Choice and Decision Making (3 semester hours) This course integrates theories of political choice with models
of decision making in the fields of social cognition, economics, and consumer
behavior. (3-0) T
PSCI 7372 Game Theory for Political Scientists (3 semester hours) An introduction to formal models with more than one
decision-maker, this course will cover basic solution concepts in game theory.
The course will pay particular attention to applications in political science,
rather than the foundational models in economics. (3-0) T
PSCI 7381 Special Topics in Political Science (3 semester hours) Topics
vary semester to semester and are rotated typically among the three fields of
the program. May
be repeated for credit (9 hours maximum).
(3-0) R
PSCI 7V83 Independent Study (3-9 semester hours) Provides faculty
supervision of student’s individual study of a topic that is directly relevant
to dissertation or practicum research and is agreed on by the student and the
faculty supervisor. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and Political
Science Program Director. May be repeated for credit. ([1-9]-0) R
PSCI 8381 Research Seminar in
Political Science (3
semester hours) Promotes faculty-student research collaboration and students’
dissertation or practicum and professional development. May be repeated
for credit. (3-0) Y
PSCI 8V99 Dissertation or Practicum (1-9 semester hours) Provides
faculty supervision of a student’s dissertation research. Prerequisite: Permission
of instructor and student’s Advisory Committee. May be repeated for credit. ([1-9]-0) S
Public
Policy and Political Economy
POEC 6301 Political-Economic Theories (3 semester
hours) A critical analysis of theories of politics and economy. Focuses on such
thinkers as Smith, Marx, and Keynes, and on bodies of theory about political
and economic systems.
Explores
the controversies that have shaped the development of political economy and
their implications for interdisciplinary policy analysis. (3-0) Y
POEC 6319 Political Economy of MNCs (3 semester hours) The Political Economy of Multinational Corporations
will approach the rise of international firms and their behavior from a social
scientific approach, utilizing research in economics, political science, and
other disciplines. In addition to the historical rise of international firms,
the course covers the economic theory of the firm, MNCs as political actors,
the dynamics of foreign direct investment, and the relationship of MNCs to
developing countries. The aim of the course is to understand the causes and
effects of the behavior of transnational corporations, particularly in regard
to economic policy. (3-0) R
POEC 6323 (PA 6313 and PSCI 6313) Public Policymaking and Institutions (3 semester hours) Surveys the major
institutions associated with policymaking, including Congress, the Presidency,
the bureaucracy, and interest groups. These institutions are studied by linking
them to the decision-making theories of organizations, social choice and incrementalism. (3-0) S
POEC 6335 (PSCI 6335) Institutions and Development (3 semester hours) An
overview of leading theories, institutional perspectives, issues and policy
debates concerning urban, regional, national and global development. Topics may
include economic growth, technology and innovation, shifts in industrial
structure, spatially imbalanced change, and their welfare consequences. (3-0) T
POEC 6353 (ECON 6362) Industry, Technology, and Science Policy (3
semester hours) Focuses on the impact of social, economic, and political
factors on industry as critical units of production, and how these interact
with technology and science. Topics include availability of skilled labor,
research and development in industry, business-university relationships,
innovation, and international competitiveness of the U.S. economy. (3-0) Y
POEC 6354 Theories and Issues of Development (3 semester hours) In approaching development, there is
an important interaction between theories and issues, each to some extent
defining the other. This course will review a number of prominent
instances in which we see this interaction-where theory has shaped the way
people defined and approached practical problems and also where pressing
practical problems have sometimes demanded new theoretical developments.
Specific theories and issues discussed vary. Possible theories of interest
include arguments for and against slavery, mercantilism, the idea of economic
"takeoff," central planning versus pluralism, and the role of
democracy and human rights. Issues include labor conditions, urban living
conditions, population growth and population quality, environmental pollution
and sustainability, and governmental ineffectiveness and corruption. (3-0) Y
POEC 6355 Political Economy of the Middle East (3 semester hours) Analysis of the
interplay of cultures and conflicts in the Middle East. The course
will examine ancient cultures, Islam and the Ottoman Empire, the Arab-Israeli
conflict, the rise of the Oil Kingdoms, the Kurds, the Gulf wars, and terrorism
in the name of Islam. The course will also focus on U.S. relations with a
number of Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, and
Israel. (3-0) R
POEC 6357 (PSCI 6357) Political Economy of Latin America (3 semester
hours) Addresses historical and contemporary issues in Latin American political
economy. Uses case studies and cross-regional comparisons to assess
competing explanations.
Analyzes
the current political and economic situation facing Latin America in its quest
for economic growth and development.
The emphasis is to understand the broad patterns of development and change in
the region and the physical, historical, social and economic constraints which
have affected development, broadly understood. (3-0) R
POEC 6358 Political Economy of South and Southeast Asia (3 semester hours)
Political Economy of South and Southeast Asia. South Asia is the
Indian peninsula. Southeast Asia is the great swath of countries from Burma and
Thailand through Malaysia to Indonesia and Australia. This is a region of
great cultural, political, economic, religious, and historical diversity.
This course surveys the political economy of the region by selectively
examining key countries and their mutual interactions. The major
countries, all of which are rising military and economic powers, are
Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Australia. Additional countries which
will be included according to interest and available material, include Sri
Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Burma, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia,
Singapore, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and New Zealand. (3-0) R
POEC 6360 (ECON 6352) World Political Economy (3 semester hours) An
overview of the major economic, social, political and cultural forces that
influence the nature of the international economic and political environment,
as well as global economic and political relations. Topics include: theories of
global political economy; economic and political transformation in Eastern
Europe, China and the former Soviet Union; democratization and development in
the less developed countries; military and non-military approaches to national
and international security; environmentally sustainable economic development;
and the international implications of technological failure. (3-0) T
POEC 6361 (PSCI 6361) Political Violence and Terrorism (3 semester
hours) In
this discussion-based seminar, we will cover the topics of terrorism, political
violence, and civil war. We will examine concepts, causes, and
consequences of different types of political violence. Additionally, we
will discuss topics relevant to research, including discussions of different
approaches (quantitative, qualitative, and formal) and a perusal of different
data sources. We will take advantage of literature from multiple
disciplines.
(3-0) T
POEC 6362 (PSCI 6362) Political Development (3 semester hours) This course will survey different perspectives and theories
of political development. Topics covered include the role of the state,
democratization, political stability, civil society and environmental concerns,
among others. (3-0) R
POEC 6363 (PSCI 6363) Conflict and Development (3 semester hours) This module will explore the nexus
between violent intrastate conflict and development. It will examine some of
the key conceptual frameworks advanced to understand conflict and will explore
specific themes which have preoccupied researchers and policy practitioners in
recent years. In addition to assessing the economic costs of the conflicts,
this course will also examine the traditional factors that have been purported
to explain the prevalence of insurgency. (3-0) R
POEC 6364 Development Economics (3 semester hours) An overview of theories of national
economic growth and development, with emphasis on economy-wide modeling,
application of micro-economic theories, and domestic sectoral policy. (3-0) T
POEC 6366 International Economics (3 semester hours) The course focuses on international
trade theory and the ongoing process of regional integration in the Americas,
with particular emphasis on the North American Free Trade Agreement. (3-0) R
POEC 6367 Topical Issues in Conflict and Conflict Resolution (3
semester hours) This course will examine in detail three recent international
or ethnic conflicts and the national and international efforts to resolve the
conflicts and/or mitigate their effects. The course will examine theories
of conflict including ethnic conflict and just war theory. It will
examine the historical sources of the conflicts, the regional and international
dimensions, the precipitating causes and the intensification of the
conflicts. Examples of conflicts that could be used include: the former
Yugoslavia, India/Pakistan, Iraq and Kuwait, North Korea, Israel/Palestine and
Sudan. (3-0) T
POEC 6368 Population and Development (3 semester hours) Examines the relations among population,
resources, economic development, and the environment in light of conflicting
Malthusian and anti-Malthusian paradigms. Topics include fertility, mortality,
public health, human capital, use of resources, and environmental impacts at
local, regional, and global scales. (3-0) R
POEC 6369
National and International Security Strategies and Policies (3 semester hours) With the end of the
decades-long Cold War, the US has become the world's only
superpower. But the problem of national and international security
continue to be a dominant concern of national and international political and
economic life, just as it has been for more than sixty years. Many nations
continue to maintain high levels of military expenditure as a mainstay of their
security policy. Yet, there has been a profound change in the nature
of the threats to security since the Cold War. Some, like the threat
of intentional full-scale global nuclear war, have receded. Others,
like the threat posed by nuclear proliferation and the terrorism of mass
destruction, have increased. From acute hot spots to longer-term
questions of restructuring power and security arrangements in a post-Cold War
world, understanding the deeper issues of national and international security
is critical to understanding what lies behind the headlines -- and what
strategies are likely to be effective in achieving real security. Topics
include: the nature and meaning of security; security and military force;
terrorism, accidents and accidental war; nuclear proliferation; the
international arms trade; the experience of war; the economics of security
policy; social and psychological factors; strategies for achieving security by
nonmilitary means. (3-0) T
POEC 6379 Special Topics in Development Studies (3 semester hours)
Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated
for credit (9 hours maximum).
Prerequisite: POEC 6354. (3-0) R
POEC 6V81 Special Topics in Political Economy (1-9 semester hours)
Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated
for credit as topics vary.
([1-9]-0) S
POEC 6V91 Evaluation Research (3-6
semester hours) Individual or group project in evaluation research performed for
a public or private community organization under faculty supervision. Students will normally enroll in this course
for two consecutive semesters. The first
semester of enrollment will culminate in the completion of a formal evaluation
research proposal; the second will end with a final research report based on
conclusions of the proposed research. Permission of the program coordinator required. May be repeated for a total
of six semester credit hours. ([3-6]-0) Y
POEC 7306 Macroeconomic Theory and Policy (3 semester hours) Studies
various schools of macroeconomic theory, their political and economic
implications and the policies that flow from them. Discusses the
design and implementation of policies related to inflation, unemployment,
business fluctuations and long-term economic growth. (3-0) R
POEC 7317 (PA 7317) Economics for Public Policy (3 semester hours) Introduces
students to the use of economic methods of the analysis of public policy. The primary theoretical framework for the
course is microeconomics, but the course may include macroeconomics at the
discretion of the instructor. A variety
of public policy topics are covered including education, employment and the
labor market, taxes and redistribution, access to health care, poverty and inequality,
and public assistance programs. (3-0) S
POEC 7318 (PA 6308) Ethics, Culture and Public Responsibility (3
semester hours) This course provides a general consideration of traditions of
ethical thought, the interactions between personal behavior and cultural
groups/norms, and the implementation of public responsibility. Topics to be
considered shall include tensions between personal and collective goals, the
nature and limits of tolerance, and the role of institutions such as the
family, government, business, churches and interest groups. (3-0) S
POEC 7319 Economics of Education (3
semester hours) This seminar examines educational
policy issues from an economic perspective. The issues considered include the link between educational achievement
and earnings, the role of early childhood, assessments of head start and
pre-school programs, the effectiveness of compensatory education and tutoring
programs, the achievement gap for poor and minority children, educational
production functions, the extent and consequences of school segregation,
bilingual education programs, special education programs, international
comparisons of student achievement and schools, school finance, and an
examination of various school reform proposals. (3-0) R
POEC 7320 (PSCI 7320) International Negotiations (3 semester hours) This course examines both the substance
and the process of international negotiations. Students study the theory and
analysis of negotiations and identify issues, interests and positions of the
parties. The course covers the substantive areas of arms control, trade, and
environmental negotiations. The course moves from the analysis of simple,
bilateral negotiations with only a few issues in contention to complex
multilateral negotiations. (3-0) R
POEC 7321 Seminar on Business and Government (3 semester hours) Examines the interactions between markets
and the state from a comparative and public policy perspective. Special
emphasis will be placed on issues involving industry regulation/deregulation,
antitrust/competition, innovation/industrial policy, infrastructure investment,
intellectual property, social regulation, and global trade/investment. (3-0) Y
POEC 7327 Innovation Dynamics and Economic Change (3 semester hours) Examines the convergence of the information
technology and telecom industries. Explores the
role of technological innovation together with economic, institutional, and
legal-regulatory issues shaping the new IT-Telecom industry within both
domestic and geopolitical contexts.
(3-0) T
POEC 7329 Special Topics in Industry and Public Policy (3 semester
hours) Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated
for credit (9 hours maximum).
(3-0) R
POEC 7340 (SOC 6340) Domestic Social Policy (3 semester hours) Overview of governmental and nongovernmental
programs, policies, and institutions dealing with those who cannot function
self-sufficiently within the American market economy, including low-income
families, the elderly, the unemployed, and people with disabilities. Analyzes how social policy in the United
States reflects the political economy and culture, as well as social and
demographic trends. (3-0) Y
POEC 7341 Health Policy (3
semester hours) The history and political economy of the U.S. health care
system and a review of major governmental programs to expand access to
appropriate services, control rising costs, ensure the quality of care, and
promote health through prevention. Analysis of current and recent proposals for reform of health care
policy. (3-0) R
POEC 7359 Special Topics in Policy Methods (3-9 semester hours) Topics vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours maximum). (3-0) R
POEC 7V26 Policy Research Workshop in Institutions and Processes (3-9
semester hours) Students join a faculty member in a group research project on
the political economy of public policy decisions in the context of
institutional settings, such as legislatures, executive or administrative
agencies, courts, or metropolitan systems. May be repeated
for credit (6 hours maximum).
([3-9]-0) R
POEC 7V47 Policy Research Workshop in Health Care Policy (3-9 semester
hours) Students join a faculty member in a group research project. May
be repeated for credit (12 hours maximum). ([3-9]-0) R
POEC 7V62 Policy Research Workshop in Social Policy (3-9 semester hours)
Students join a faculty member in a group research project. May
be repeated for credit (9 hours maximum). ([3-9]-0) R
POEC 7V64 Policy Research Workshop in Poverty Research and Policy (3-9
semester hours) Students join a faculty member in a group research project. May
be repeated for credit (6 hours maximum). ([3-9]-0) R
POEC 7V76 Policy Research Workshop in Development Studies (3-9 semester
hours) Students join a faculty member in a group research project. Topics vary
from semester to semester. However, students may substitute an individual Field
Research Project for this workshop; the project must be approved by the faculty
of the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences. May
be repeated for credit (12 hours maximum).Prerequisites:
POEC 6341, POEC 6364, and an additional course in the concentration. ([3-9]-0) R
POEC 8398 Dissertation Seminar (3 semester hours) A seminar for students
preparing proposals or writing dissertations. Prerequisite: Successful
completion of qualifying examination or permission of instructor. May
be repeated for credit.
(3-0) S
POEC 8V01 Independent Study (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty
supervision for student’s individual study of a topic agreed upon by the
student and the faculty supervisor. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May
be repeated for credit.
([1-9]-0) R
POEC
8V97 Internship (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision for a
student’s internship.
Internships must be related to the student’s coursework. Prerequisite: Permission
of instructor. ([1-9]-0) R
POEC
8V99 Dissertation (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision of a
student’s dissertation research.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be repeated
for credit.
([1-9]-0) S
Applied Sociology
SOC 5V92
Internship in Applied Sociology (1-9 semester hours) Provides faculty supervision for a
student’s internship. Internships
must be related to the student’s course work. Prerequisite: Permission of
instructor. ([1-9]-0) R
SOC 6312
Social-Economic Theories
(3 semester hours) A critical analysis of early and modern social and economic
theories. Select classical works of Smith,
Marx, and Weber are explored, as they pertain to Western capitalist
development, along with more contemporary perspectives related to the
accumulation and exchange value of human, social and cultural capital. Emphasis
is placed on understanding how social relations and social institutions
influence economic exchanges. (3-0) Y
SOC 6340 Domestic Social Policy (3 semester hours) Overview of
governmental and non-governmental programs, policies, and institutions dealing
with those who cannot function self-sufficiently within the American market
economy, including low-income families, the elderly, the unemployed, and people
with disabilities. Analyzes how social policy in the United States reflects the
political economy and culture, as well as social and demographic trends. (3-0)
Y
SOC 6341 (ECON 6371) Urban Development (3 semester hours) Presents
methods and models for understanding urban processes. Topics include analysis
of urban growth, land use patterns, transportation and local public good
delivery systems. Welfare consequences of various urban policy options are
explored. (3-0) Y
SOC 6344 Gender and Policy (3 semester hours) Explores issues of gender
and public policy in the U.S. Topics include poverty, politics, and workplace
and family issues. (3-0) R
SOC 6350 Social Stratification (3 semester hours) This seminar will
examine the major theories and lines of research on social stratification,
defined as the hierarchical ranking of groups based on the unequal distribution
of societal resources and positions. Focusing primarily on the U.S. class
system, topics covered include: class reproduction and mobility, the educational
system and policy, empirical definitions, the implications of race and gender
for social class, and forms of legitimation. (3-0) Y
SOC 6353 Immigrants and Immigration in U.S. Society (3 semester hours)
The course examines the assimilation into U.S. society and its main public
social institutions of immigrants arriving after 1965 with a focus on the two
largest groups: Mexicans and Asians, including immigrants from the Middle East.
The course considers the effects of the economy and immigration law and policy
on assimilation. Other topics include the impact of these "newest"
immigrants on the racial and ethnic as well as cultural diversification of the
U.S. population, multiculturalism, the second generation, and the future of
immigrants and immigration in U.S. society. (3-0) R
SOC 63xx Immigrant Religious Organizations in U.S. Society (3 semester hours) The course examines the
religious organizations of immigrants who entered the United States after 1965,
their congregational structure and community-center model in providing a
variety of resources that assist in their settlement, and how these contribute
to these new immigrants’ assimilation into U.S. public institutions. The course also examines these organizations’
role in reproducing immigrants’ ethnicity in a multicultural society. Students will design a course project around
their literature review. (3-0) R
SOC 6355 Race, Ethnicity, and Community (3 semester hours) Considers
cultural and social behavior in multiracial and multiethnic societies.
Issues include the formation and maintenance of individual and group identity,
patterns of socioeconomic achievement, intergroup conflict, and the causes and
consequences of public policy. (3-0) R
SOC 6356 Health and Illness (3 semester hours) A review of medical
sociology and related fields, including social epidemiology and the social
demography of health and illness; health and illness behavior; health
institutions and professions; economic factors and trends in health care; and
health policies and programs. (3-0) R
SOC 6357 Health Policy (3 semester hours) The history and political
economy of the U.S. health care system and a review of major governmental
programs to expand access to appropriate services, control rising costs, ensure
the quality of care, and promote health through prevention. Analysis of
current and recent proposals for reform of health care policy. (3-0) Y
SOC 6370 Special Topics in Applied Sociology (3 semester hours) Topics
vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit (9 hours
maximum). (3-0) T
SOC 6380 (PA 6380) Nonprofit Organizations (3 semester hours) This course examines issues related to the rise, scope,
development and impact of nonprofit organizations. The course explores both the
unique missions of nonprofit organizations and the management challenges posed
by this expanding sector of the organizational environment. (3-0) T
SOC 6381 (PA 6382) Nonprofit Management(3 semester hours) This course examines issues, strategies,
and techniques related to leadership and management in nonprofit organizations.
(3-0) R
SOC 6V91 Evaluation Research (3-6 semester hours) Individual or group project in evaluation research
performed for a public or private community organization under faculty
supervision. Students will normally enroll in this course for two
consecutive fall/spring semesters. The first semester of enrollment will
culminate in the completion of a formal evaluation research proposal; the
second will end with a final research report based on conclusions of the
proposed research. Students also are expected to participate in a weekly
seminar on topics in evaluation research featuring faculty and student
presentations, guest speakers, and group discussion. Permission of the
program coordinator required. May be repeated for a total of six semester credit hours. ([3-6]-0) Y
SOC 6V92 Research Workshop in Applied Sociology (3-6 semester hours)
Students join a faculty member in a group research project. May be repeated
for credit (6 hours maximum). ([3-6]-0)
T
SOC
6V98 Master’s Thesis (3-6 semester hours) Provides faculty
supervision of a student's master’s thesis research. Completion
of all, or concurrent enrollment in, major requirements. Prerequisite:
Permission of Program Coordinator. May be repeated for credit
(6 hours maximum). ([3-6]-0) R