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, State, & Federal Elections
10. Primary Versus General Elections
11. Political Parties & Independents
12. Partisanship, Polarization, & Platforms
13. Navigating Partisanship & Developing Your Policy Aims