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Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2017-2018
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ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
with a human rights institution is a requirement. Prerequisite: at least junior standing.
Spring of odd-numbered years.
PS 445 Democratization (1)
An advanced course addressing the theoretical issues generated by the wave of
democratization that began in the early 1970s. It explores democracy’s diverse
understandings and practices with an emphasis on comparative analyses of transitions
from authoritarian rule and the problems associated with democratic consolidation.
Prerequisite: GCS 100 or PS 238.
PS 450 Religion and Politics in America (1)
Explores the relationship between religion and politics in America. Emphasis is placed on
the role of religion in American culture and how religion affects politics. (Also listed as
HON 450 and RE 450.)
PS 470 Seminar for Majors (1)
An exploration of issues in political science. Prerequisite: senior standing.
PS 472 Senior Research Project in Political Science (1)
Extension of PS 470 Seminar for Majors. This course functions as a capstone experience
where students conduct independent research under the supervision of the political
science faculty and where they come together to discuss key issues for the discipline. In
addition to completion of significant research, which will be presented to the campus
community, students will take up important questions for political science such as the
future and scope of the discipline, quantitative versus qualitative analysis, and the
application of political science to the solution of problems confronting community.
PS 473 Selected Topics (1)
Selected topics in political science, varying according to individual needs. Open only to
junior and senior majors in political science. Fall.
PVS – Poverty Studies
PVS 201 Introduction to Poverty Studies (1)
An examination of wealth distribution, social inequality, and the complexities of poverty
through interdisciplinary perspectives. The course uses theoretical and methodological
frameworks from different disciplines to explore how access to resources shapes all
aspects of the human experience. Through experiential learning activities, students will
learn how wealth inequality affects the community and their own lives. (Also listed as SO
201.) Fall.
PVS 470 Poverty Studies Capstone Project (1)
A capstone project for the distinction in poverty studies. Students are required to engage
in a collaborative experiential rise
3
project (research, service-learning, or internship)