EPLS 101 introduces students to the history and fundamentals of the American electoral system.

Topics include the foundation of U.S. Democracy and governmental structures; the three branches of government; the roles of local, state, and federal elections; the differences between primary and general elections; an overview of political parties and independents; and modern day considerations for the conscientious candidate.

Course Sections:

1. The Creation of U.S. Democracy
2. The Structure of the U.S. Federal Government: The Executive Branch & Checks and Balances
3. The Legislative Branch
4. The Life-Cycle of a Law
5. The Judicial Branch
6. An Introduction to Federalism
7. Local Government Structures
8. The American Electoral Process
9. Local and State Elections and Their Importance
10. Federal Elections
11. Primary Versus General Elections
12. Political Parties & Independents
13. Partisanship, Polarization, & Platforms
14. Navigating Partisanship & Developing Your Policy Aims