Entry requirements

American Studies A1 or 30 credits within the humanities or the social sciences

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will

• be able to understand and analyze central dimensions of a number of current issues in American politics;
• be able to show insight into academic research on contemporary American politics;
• be able to critically reflect on different perspectives in the course literature.

Content

The course examines current problems in contemporary American politics. It focuses on a number of themes such as pollical polarization, demographics, class, religion, voter turnout, election campaigns, and foreign politics. The themes can vary from semester to semester.

Instruction

Teaching is done through lectures and seminars. Virtual meetings may occur. Active participation in course seminars is obligatory. In cases of absence students will be given the opportunity to complete an extra assignment within the framework of the course period. English is the language of instruction.

Assessment

Examination is done through spoken as well as written assignments and by continuous assessment. Grades used are either Fail, Pass, or Pass with Distinction. 

Students who do not achieve a passing grade on the regular examination will have another opportunity to take the examination within a reasonable period of time after the regular examination. 

Students who fail a certain examination twice have the right upon request, following consultation with the head of department, to have another examiner appointed.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator.

Other directives

If the syllabus or course reading for a component has been changed, students have a right to be examined under the original syllabus and course reading on three occasions during the following three semesters. Normally this right then expires. Otherwise there are no limitations on the number of examination opportunities.

The course may not be included in a degree with the course American Studies B1 or the course American Politics II (5EN723).

Transitional provisions

For transitional regulations in the case of changes in the syllabus, please contact the student adviser.