NORAM2578 – Critical Challenges of American Government and Politics
Course description
Course content
While supplying a thorough introduction to government and politics in the United States, this course emphasizes a series of historical developments that have altered America's political processes and institutions, focusing on those that cause controversy and challenge the maintenance democratic principles in the republic. These critical issues include the rise of media-based mass parties, the nationalization of politics, the development of an "imperial" presidency and judiciary, persistent inequality, low voter participation, and the growth of the national security state.
Learning outcome
After completing this course you will have:
- acquired a foundation of knowledge about the primary actors, dynamics, and processes of the American political system;
- gained a critical awareness of the currently most significant areas of change and controversy.
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Prerequisites
Recommended previous knowledge
The course assumes a good proficiency in written and oral English.
Overlapping courses
This course overlaps with NORAM4578 – Critical Challenges of American Government and Politics (discontinued).
Teaching
Seminar, two hours per week for 10 weeks, 20 hours in total.
Attendance is obligatory 8 out of 10 seminars. Additional absences must be justified by documentation to the exam adviser.
You must also submit an essay in the middle of the semester. This essay must be approved by the teacher in order to take the exam.
Examination
A 4 hour written exam.
Earlier given assignments (note that the exam form has changed!): http://www.uio.no/studier/emner/hf/ilos/NORAM2578/eksamensoppgaver./tidligere-gitte-eksamensoppgaver.html
Examination support material
You are allowed to use an English–English Dictionary.
Language of examination
English
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
The results will be found on the StudentWeb within three weeks of the exam.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Withdrawal from an examination
It is possible to take the exam up to 3 times. If you withdraw from the exam after the deadline or during the exam, this will be counted as an examination attempt.
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.
Evaluation
The course is subject to continuous evaluation. At regular intervals we also ask students to participate in a more comprehensive evaluation.