Course Descriptions
Not all courses described in the Course and Program Catalogue are offered each year. For a timetable of courses offered in 2013-2014, please consult the online registration information.
As of 2005-2006, certain course abbreviations have changed. Students with credit for a course under its
former label may not take the relabeled course for credit.
The following conventions are used for course numbering:
- 010-099 represent non-degree level courses
- 100-699 represent undergraduate degree level courses
- 700-999 represent graduate degree level courses
Please use the following form to look up courses and find detailed information on course
prerequisites, corequisites, and other special notes. To view all 100-level courses in a subject,
select a Subject Code and type 1% in the Course Number field. (200-level = 2%, etc.)
Results
POLS 111.3 — 1/2(3L)Democracy in North America
An introduction to the study of politics through an examination of contemporary issues and ideas that arise in and between the democratic systems of Canada, the United States and Mexico, including democracy, sovereignty, aboriginal issues, NAFTA, globalization, identity, rights, representation and political participation.
Formerly: POLS 110.6
POLS 112.3 — 1/2(3L)Political Ideas and Change in Global Era
An introduction to political ideas and change in a global era. The course explores themes such as nationalism, ideology, development, democratization, globalization, sovereignty, conflict and human rights.
Formerly: POLS 110.6
POLS 204.3 — 1/2(3L)Governance of Canada
Introduces students to the main structures and processes of Canada's national government, including the Constitution and federalism, the Crown, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, Parliament and the courts.
Formerly: POLS 203
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 203 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 205.3 — 1/2(3L)Politics in Canada
Introduces students to the societal context of, and individual and group participation in, Canadian political life. Covers the Canadian political culture, the politics of regionalism, language, ethnicity and federalism, and the main processes of political participation, including political parties, elections, pressure groups, and the mass media.
Formerly: POLS 203
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 203 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 222.3 — 1/2(3L)Aboriginal Governance and Politics
An analysis of existing and emerging systems of Aboriginal governance and politics at the local, regional, provincial and national levels in Canada.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
POLS 225.3 — 1/2(3L)Canadian Public Administration
An introduction to the basic structures, processes, and principles of public administration at the national and sub-national level within the Canadian political system. Special attention is devoted to the various policy-making, regulatory, management, and administrative components of the various public administrative systems. Students will learn why the various components of the administrative system exist, how they operate, and what implications they have both for governmental and non-governmental agencies and actors within the political system.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 220 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 226.3 — 1/2(3L)Canadian Public Policy
An introduction to the basic conceptual frameworks for describing and analyzing the nature, determinants, and effects of public policy within the Canadian political system at the national and sub-national levels. Special attention is devoted to the fundamental nature of policies such as health, education, welfare, family, immigration, intercultural relations, language, environmental, and Aboriginal, as well as other policies of interest and importance at the time the course is offered.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 220 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 236.3 — 2(3L)Classical Medieval and Renaissance Political Thought
Examines the political theories of such classical, medieval and renaissance philosophers as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine, Aquinas and Machiavelli.
Formerly: POLS 235.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 235 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 237.3 — 2(3L)Modern Political Theory
Examines the works of such modern political theorists as Hobbes, Locke, Jefferson, Smith, Bentham, Kant, Marx and Mill.
Formerly: POLS 235.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 235 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 246.6 — 1&2(3L)Politics of Third World
An examination of the political processes and structures within developing countries with primary emphasis on states in sub-Saharan Africa and the South Pacific. Topics covered include the colonial period, the rise of nationalist parties, ideology and political leadership, the roles of traditional and modern groups, and problems of development and underdevelopment.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
POLS 248.3 — 1(3L)Foundations of American Government
Will offer an introduction to the constitutional foundations of American Government. Topics studied will include the origins and basic structure of the Constitution and its amendments, the role of the Courts, civil liberties, federalism, political culture and elections.
Formerly:POLS 242.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 242 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 249.3 — 1(3L)Institutions and Processes of American Government
Will examine the formal and informal processes of the American system of government. Topics will include the institutions of the Presidency, the Congress, and the bureaucracy and their interaction, as well as the mass media, public opinion, political parties and interest groups.
Formerly:POLS 242.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 242 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 250.3 — 1/2(3L)State and Society
This course examines various political and sociological approaches to understanding the state and its relationship to society including liberalism, pluralism, functionalism, elite theory, Marxism and Neo-Marxism.
Formerly: POLS 252.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or SOC 111 and SOC 112; or 60 credit units at the university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 252 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 251.3 — 1/2(3L)Social Movements and Change
This course focuses on the study of social movements as they contribute to political change and stability and offers various theoretical approaches and concepts relevant to the study of social movements and collective behaviour.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or SOC 111 and SOC 112; or 60 credit units at the university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 252 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 253.3 — 1/2(3L)Conquest and Revolution in Latin America
This course is a comparative analysis of Latin American politics at the introductory level and it has three main objectives: Firstly, it aims to introduce students to the key issues and concepts of politics in the region. Secondly, it intends to study critically the roots of the revolutionary upheavals that engulfed the region in the latter part of the 20th century, the legacies of these revolutions, and the factors that led to ‘wave’ of democratic transitions by century’s end. Finally, the course seeks to develop student’s research, writing and analytical skills.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111.3 and POLS 112.3; or 60 credit units at the university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 247.6 may not take POLS 253.3 for credit.
POLS 254.3 — 1/2(3L)Democratization and Development in Latin America
This course is a comparative analysis of Latin American politics at the introductory level and it has three main objectives: Firstly, it aims to introduce students to the key issues and concepts of politics in the region. Secondly, it intends to study critically two major developments which have marked Latin America’s recent history (since the end of the 20th century), the twin developments of democratization and neoliberalism, which some have referred to as the silent revolutions. Finally, the course seeks to develop student’s research, writing and analytical skills.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111.3 and POLS 112.3; or 60 credit units at the university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 247.6 may not take POLS 254.3 for credit.
POLS 256.3 — 1/2(3L)Methods of Political Research
An introduction to selected methods of conducting political science research. Course investigates logical and systematic strategies for analyzing political phenomena.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 255 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 261.3 — 1/2(3L)Introduction to International Politics
An introduction to the dynamics of international politics. It introduces students to the evolution of international politics with a focus on major events and ideas in the development of the modern international system, with particular emphasis on political concepts, ideologies and theories regarding the nature, meaning and development of the international system.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 260 will not receive credit for this course.
POLS 262.3 — 1/2(3L)Introduction to Global Governance
Examines major international institutions - such as the United Nations, the European Union, NATO and others to understand how they work and to assess their success in dealing with various issues that challenge the international community – for example, in the promotion of human rights, assisting economic development, ameliorating violent conflicts, and promoting nuclear nonproliferation.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and POLS 112; or 60 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 260 will not receive credit for this course.
POLS 298.3 — 1/2(3L)Special Topics
Offered occasionally by visiting faculty and in other special situations. Students interested in these courses should contact the department for more information.
POLS 299.6 — 1&2(3L)Special Topics
Offered occasionally by visiting faculty and in other special situations. Students interested in these courses should contact the department for more information.
POLS 303.3 — 1/2(3L)Public Law and the Courts in Canada
Will introduce students to Canada's constitution, with special emphasis on the judicial system. It will also examine Canada's constitutional debates, with specific emphasis on the judicial role in shaping federal/provincial division of powers since Confederation.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS
POLS 304.3 — 1/2(3L)Democracy and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Will introduce students to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Special attention is devoted to the intersection between law and politics, including debates surrounding the introduction of the Charter, ongoing debates concerning judicial power and extensive case reviews.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS (Students are encouraged to take POLS 303 before taking POLS 304).
Note: Students with credit for POLS 307 Topics in Canadian Politics: Law, Politics and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms (offered in 2010-11 and 2011-12) may not take this course for credit.
POLS 305.3 — 1/2(3L)Provincial Politics
An examination of the institutions and processes of Canadian provincial political systems with particular emphasis on Saskatchewan.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 306.3 — 1/2(3L)Local Government
An examination of various aspects of local government in Canada, including the evolution of the structures, functions, finances and powers of local government, and the purposes and politics of various contemporary reform issues.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 307.3 — 1/2(3L)Topics in Canadian Politics
An examination of major issues of contemporary concern in Canadian politics, such as constitutional and environmental issues and issues affecting women. The content of the course varies from year to year, but is announced in advance of registration deadlines.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units of 100-level POLS or 30 credit units at university level.
POLS 322.3 — 1/2(3L)Aboriginal Management and Administrative Systems
An examination of current and emerging systems of management and administration at the local, regional, provincial and national levels within the Aboriginal sector in Canada.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 323.3 — 1/2(3L)Aboriginal Policies and Programs
An examination of government policies and programs within the Aboriginal sector in Canada, including those established by the federal and provincial governments as well as those developed by Aboriginal communities themselves.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 326.3 — 1/2(3L)Introduction to Comparative Public Policy
Introduction to the approaches and methods for comparing the public policies of various countries. Introduction to the nature and determinents of the similarities/differences in the substance of their respective policies, and the structures and processes used to produce them.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS and 30 credit units at the university level.
POLS 328.3 — 1/2(3L)Public Policy Analysis
An introduction to the purposes, approaches, methods, ethics and politics of public policy analysis. It is designed to provide an understanding of how to produce and analyze documents needed for policy-making and decision making purposes in various organizational settings both in the governmental sector and in the non-governmental sector.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS and 30 credit units at university level.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 327 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 329.3 — 1/2(3L)Governance of Nonprofit Organizations
Introduces students to the subject of governance in nonprofit organizations today. It assesses: the role of governing boards in nonprofits; the nature of governance structures and processes in nonprofits; the relationship between boards and management in nonprofits; the key external and internal influences that affect how nonprofits are governed; and the impact of partnering with government on the role and authority of nonprofit boards.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units of 100-level POLS, or 60 credit units of undergraduate courses, or by permission of the instructor.
POLS 336.3 — 1/2(3L)Justice Freedom and Democracy
Democracy implies both justice and liberty as preconditions and goals while justice requires and strives for democracy and liberty. Further, there can be no liberty without justice and democracy. This course examines the ways in which the three concepts of justice, freedom and democracy are linked to one another both theoretically and in practice. Reference will be made to some classical theorists, but the focus will be on contemporary thinkers and writers.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 236 and 237 or ( formerly POLS 235); or PHIL 262.
POLS 337.3 — 1/2(3L)Canadian Ideologies and the Pursuit of the Common Good
This course will examine all of the major ideological currents in Canada such as Toryism, conservatism, liberalism, social democracy, feminism, environmentalism, English Canadian nationalism, Québécois nationalism, and Indigenous nationalism. Focusing on the various political parties and actors that represent these traditions, the course will further explore how these conflicting ideologies purport to pursue the common good.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 236 and 237 (formerly POLS 235); or PHIL 262.
POLS 341.3 — 1/2(3L)Asian Governance and Politics
The course provides an introduction to the government, politics and issues that face the countries of the Asia Pacific region, and seeks to provide students with a foundation for a lifelong engagement with a fascinating and increasingly important part of the world.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111.3 and (POLS 112.3 or IS 100.3).
POLS 342.3 — 1/2(3L)Russia and Former Soviet Union Politics of Change
Examines the process of transition in Russia and the other post-Soviet states with special emphasis on nation building, economic restructuring, democratic reform, the emergence of civil society, and geopolitical adaptation.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 343.3 — 1/2(3L)Ukraine Processes and Problems of Nation and State building
This course examines the historical as well as contemporary political, social and cultural processes that have shaped Ukraine’s national identity while exploring their impact on current state-building efforts.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 346.3 — 1/2(3L)Topics in Governance of the Developing World
An analysis of governance in the developing world, focussing on topics such as leadership, democratization, ethnicity and women, and institution-building.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 246 or POLS 253 and POLS 254 or permission of the department.
POLS 349.3 — 1(3L)The Public Policy of Multiculturalism in Canada
As Canada becomes an increasingly multiethnic country and demands for the recognition of diversity multiply, the policy of multiculturalism will continue to gain importance within the Canadian polity. This course is intended to introduce students to the study of the practice of multiculturalism in Canada. It will examine how the management of ethnic diversity is integrated into Canadian public policy. As such, it explores the relationship between multiculturalism and public policy areas such as immigration, employment equity, anti-racist education, the welfare state, and federal-provincial-municipal relations. Further, it attempts to put Canadian multicultural policy within the perspective of nation-building, English Canadian nationalism, Québécois nationalism, partisan politics, and globalization.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 362.3 — 1/2(3L)Global Political Economy
This course will introduce students to the foundations and theory of political economy including Classicism, Neo-Classicism, Marxism, Keynesianism, and Neoliberalism. The course will further introduce students to the concept of globalization, exploring how recent shifts in the global political economy have challenged the legitimacy of liberal democratic states.
Prerequisite(s): 12 credit units POLS or 60 credit units at university level.
POLS 364.3 — 1/2(3L)International Terrorism
Examines the goals, strategies and actions of international terrorist groups, the efforts of governments to combat terrorism, and the effect of international terrorism on contemporary international relations. Special attention is given to philosophies of violence and to ethical issues surrounding terrorist and counter-terrorist actions.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 112.3 or permission of the instructor.
POLS 368.3 — 1/2(3L)Ideology and American Foreign Policy
An examination of American foreign policy since 1945, with an emphasis on how American ideological perspectives affect American political, economic, and military objectives and strategies. Major attention is given to imagery in the post-Cold War period and to American efforts to promote democracy and human rights.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 261.3 or permission of the instructor.
POLS 370.3 — 1(3L)War Peace and International Order
Seeks to identify and assess those issues that historically have generated conflict and examines the various political and diplomatic efforts that followed epochal wars to create international orders and mechanisms that would manage, control or prevent future international conflicts.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 371.3 — 1/2(3L)International Conflict I Cold War
Critically assesses, by way of theory, the nature of the Cold War as a system of international relations, including its rise and demise.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 372.3 — 2(3L)War Peace and Political Reconciliation
This course examines various approaches to peace-building in the aftermath of conflict, focusing on the restorative role of political reconciliation.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 375.3 — 1/2(3L)Canada and the World
Introduction to Canada's role in the world, studying the factors that continue to shape Canada's position on global issues and the processes by which Canadian foreign policy is made.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 365 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 376.3 — 1/2(3L)Issues in Canadian Foreign Policy
Introduces students to contemporary themes and issues in Canadian foreign policy, including the future of multilateralism in Canadian foreign policy, the relevance of the Middle Power concept for Canada, public influences on foreign policy, and the evolving dynamics of Canada-US relations.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 375.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 365 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 379.3Washington Center Topics in Political Studies
Covers topics in Political Studies, offered by the Washington Center, Washington D.C. Possible topics include Religion and Global Politics, Peaceful Solutions, The Road to the White House, Ethics and the U.S. Congress, How Washington Really Works, U.S. Foreign Policy in the 21st Century, Peaceful Solutions, International Human Rights, The Rationality/ Psychology of Conflict, Violence, and War, Most Dangerous Woman in the World, Intercultural Communications, Public Policies that Reduce Hunger and Poverty, U.S. and China in the 20th and 21st Centuries, Global Policy Issues, Strategic Communication for the Policy Making Process, Press, Politics, and Power, Campaigning for a Cause, Scandalous Washington, Crime, Power, & Punishment, Citizenship in Multicultural Society, Government and Business in the New Economic and Political Reality, Introduction to Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure, International Organizations and Humanitarian Law, Managing the American Intelligence Community, Non-profit Leadership and Management, or other topics approved by the Political Studies Department.
Prerequisite(s): 60 credit units of university level study including 6 credit units senior POLS
Note: Registration in this course is restricted to students selected for the Washington Center Term Abroad program.
POLS 383.3 — 1/2(9P)Career Internship
Designed to provide students with an opportunity to study policy, management, and administrative matters of importance to organizations in Saskatchewan through a combination of direct observations, directed readings, and research and analysis.
Prerequisite(s): 60 credit units at university level and permission of the department.
POLS 384.3 — 1/2(1.5S-5P)Aboriginal Administrative Internship
Provides an opportunity for students involved in the Aboriginal Administrative Internship to deepen their understanding of various governance, policy, management and administrative issues in the Aboriginal sector, through a combination of direct observations, directed readings and research and analysis.
Prerequisite(s): 60 credit units at the university level and permission of the department.
POLS 385.3 — 2(3L)Topics in Central American Politics
Part of the La Antigua, Guatemala Study Term Abroad. An analysis of the contemporary politics of Central America. Topics include democracy, development, integration, inter-American relations, and political processes. Includes guest lecturers from the region and field trips within Guatemala.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
Note: Students may take this course more than once for credit, provided the topic covered in each offering differs substantially. Students must consult the Department to ensure that the topics covered are different.
POLS 398.3 — 1/2(3S)Special Topics
Offered occasionally by visiting faculty and in other special situations to cover, in depth, topics that are not thoroughly covered in regularly offered courses.
POLS 399.6 — 1&2(3S)Special Topics
Offered occasionally by visiting faculty and in other special situations to cover, in depth, topics that are not thoroughly covered in regularly offered courses.
POLS 403.3 — 1/2(3S)Advanced Topics in Public Law and Public Policy
Students will be introduced to theories of law, politics and justice in modern Canadian society. In addition to examining judicial decision-making, the course will also question how law influences administrative actors with regards to such policy fields as labour, immigration, health, multiculturalism, the environment and aboriginal rights.
Prerequisite(s): 60 credit units at the university level including 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 404.3 — 1/2(3S)Issues in Canadian Federalism
An examination of Canadian federalism that deals with enduring and contemporary issues such as the constitutional division of powers, intergovernmental relations, fiscal federalism, the federal spending power, regionalism, the role of Quebec in the federal system, and constitutional change.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 405.3 — 1/2(3S)Political Representation in Canada
An examination of issues relating to the institutions and processes of political representation in Canada such as Parliament, political parties, interest groups, social movements, courts, and the electoral process.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 422.3 — 1/2(3S)Aboriginal Development Strategies
Examines Aboriginal development strategies in Canada with particular attention to Aboriginal Nations in Saskatchewan. Attention is devoted to cultural, economic and political development. The course examines the various factors that foster or inhibit the various types of development within Aboriginal communities. It is designed to provide students with a an academic basis for analyzing existing development strategies in Aboriginal communities.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 111 and 112.
POLS 424.3 — 1/2(3S)New Public Management in Canada
An analysis of recent developments in public management, administration and policy through an examination of the development and implementation of various public programs, services, and the utilization of human and financial resources of the federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments in Canada.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 425.3 — 1/2(3S)Governance and Management Partnerships
An analysis of the growth and importance of partnerships between governmental and non-governmental organizations in developing and implementing programs and services within various jurisdictions in Canada.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 431.3 — 1/2(3S)Contemporary Problems in Political Philosophy
An analysis of particular contemporary problems in political philosophy.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 434.3 — 1/2(3S)Politics and Literature
An introduction to the role of literature and other art in the appreciation and understanding of the nature and dilemmas of politics. The course first examines theoretical issues concerning the place of politics in literature and the place of literature in politics and then examines some classic works of literature.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 441.3 — 1/2(3S)Themes and Issues in Democratic Thought
An examination of current topics in democratic thought, including group-specific rights, direct democracy and more participatory politics.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level POLS.
POLS 446.3 — 1/2(3S)Democracy in Africa Challenges and Prospects
An assessment of the prospects for multi-party democracy in Africa. Special attention is given to issues of re-democratization since 1989 and to the setbacks which have resulted from military interventions or from autocratic rulers manipulating their instruments of power to block a successful political transition.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 246, or POLS 253 and POLS 254, or IS 200.
POLS 447.3 — 1/2(3S)Ethnicity and Governance in Selected Third World Countries
An examination of ethnicity and politics in the Third World, with an emphasis on the role of political and ethnic leadership, party formation and competition, policy formation and implementation, electoral competition, government formation and multi-ethnic relations.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 246, POLS 253 and POLS 254, or IS 200.
POLS 448.3 — 1/2(3S)Development Implementation at the Base Monitoring and Evaluation
Is designed to introduce students and practitioners to Monitoring and Evaluation models and techniques that can be applied to governmental programs and projects at the national, provincial/regional and local levels, to donor country development assistance programs, as well as to international and national non-governmental organizations' projects and assistance offered by international institutions such as the United Nations Development Program. The focus is on developing countries in an effort to sensitize students to the challenges of M&E in different cultural settings. This course will draw on extensive field-based research to offer a more appropriate Monitoring and Evaluation model for development.
Prerequisite(s): IS 200 or POLS 246 or POLS 253 and POLS 254.
POLS 449.3 — 1(3S)The Theory of Multiculturalism
States today are under increasing international scrutiny regarding their treatment of ethnocultural groups and are expected to meet evolving international standards regarding the rights of ethnic minorities and immigrants. Within this context, the political theory of multiculturalism takes on great importance. This course is intended to introduce students to the study of the theory of multiculturalism. It will examine the theoretical underpinnings of multiculturalism as well as theoretical critiques of multiculturalism. As such, it explores the theory of multiculturalism within the context of liberalism, identity, social justice, nationalism, and gender.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 236 or 237.
POLS 456.3 — 1/2(1.5L-1.5P)Quantitative Political Analysis
This course provides students with an applied introduction to quantitative analysis in political science. Building on students’ prior understanding of social science data collection research methods (through the completion of POLS 256 Methods of Political Research or an equivalent course), POLS 456 introduces students to a variety of univariate and bivariate quantitative techniques, up to but not including regression analysis.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 256 or an equivalent social science research methods course; and 60 credit units at university level.
POLS 460.3 — 1/2(3S)International Ethical Thought
An examination of major traditions and ideas concerning the nature and role of ethics in international relations, including, among others, Realism, Marxism, Feminism and Liberalism, as well as the Natural Rights, Just War, and International Law traditions. Attention is also given to terrorist justifications for their actions.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 261.3 or permission of the instructor.
POLS 461.3 — 1(3S)Topics in International Studies
Designed as a selected topics seminar in international relations. Each offering will focus on one of the subfields- including Canadian Foreign Policy Processes, Ethical Issues in International Relations, International Terrorism, International Political Economy, International Trade and Globalization. The undergraduate students will investigate the methodology and applications of the theory and evidence related to that subfield.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 246; or POLS 261.3 and 262.3; or IS 200; or permission of the department.
POLS 462.3 — 1/2(3S)Ethical Issues in International Relations
An examination of specific issues in contemporary international politics about which difficult ethical choices have been made or about which there is ethical controversy, including international intervention, threatened use of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, sanctions, and promotion of international human rights.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 460.
POLS 465.3 — 1/2(3S)Nationalism and the International System
An introduction to the role of nationalism in the formation and development of the modern international system, both in shaping international society as well as in threatening its security. The future and continuing relevance of nationalism in the post-modern world is also considered.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 261.3 and 262.3.
POLS 466.3 — 1/2(3S)Ethnic Conflict and Democracy
An introduction to the problem of ethnic conflict in international society, with emphasis on special challenges to democracy in ethnically divided societies, and on legal, political and moral issues associated with external efforts to resolving ethno-political conflicts and disputes.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 261.3 and 262.3.
POLS 471.3 — 1/2(3S)Globalization and Challenges
An examination of the impact of globalization, with emphasis on groups such as labour, women, and the poor, and on the effects of particular transnational processes such as environmental degradation, refugee flows and the spread of ethnic conflicts.
Permission of the department required.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 261.3 and 262.3.
POLS 482.6 — 2Saskatchewan Legislative Internship
The study of Saskatchewan's provincial political institutions, politics, public policies, public management and public administration through a combination of direct observations, mentorship, comparative study and research analysis.
Note: Admission to the course is by application and selection through the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 382 will not receive credit for this course.
POLS 498.3 — 1/2(3S)Special Topics
Offered occasionally by visiting faculty and in other special situations to cover, in depth, topics that are not thoroughly covered in regularly offered courses.
POLS 499.6 — 1&2(3S)Special Topics
Offered occasionally by visiting faculty and in other special situations to cover, in depth, topics that are not thoroughly covered in regularly offered courses.
POLS 807.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in Canadian Governance and Polictics
An examination of selected aspects of Canadian governance and politics. Topics include the Canadian constitution, the prime minister and cabinet, Parliament, the courts, political parties, elections, public opinion, federalism, political culture, and provincial governance and politics.
POLS 809.3 — 1/2(3S)Theories of Canadian Governance and Politics
Provides an examination of some of the major theories employed in the modern study of Canadian governance and politics. It pays particular attention to the theoretical works and perspectives of scholars who are engaged in the study of institutions, processes and/or policies at the national level of Canadian politics.
Prerequisite(s): B.A. in Political Studies.
POLS 815.3 — 1/2(3S)Research Design and Methods in Political Science
A required course for all graduate students in Political Science. Introduces students to conceptual, theoretical and methodological issues in the discipline of Political Studies and teaches them skills that will prepare them to write their thesis. It also examines current themes in the political and policy discourse.
Formerly: First half of 818.6.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 818.6 may not take this course for credit.
POLS 819.3 — 1/2(3S)Theoretical Readings in Political Studies
A required course for all graduate students in Political Studies. Sub-disciplines are explored through an examination of theoretical and some attendant empirical literature by means of reading, student presentations, and seminar discussion. Seminars are led by faculty teaching and researching in the respective sub-disciplines.
Formerly: Formerly half of POLS 818.3 and formerly POLS 816.3
Prerequisite(s): Honours degree or its equivalent in Political Studies.
Note: Students with credit for POLS 818 or POLS 816 will not receive credit for this course.
POLS 825.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in Northern Governance
An examination of selected topics in Northern Governance. Topics include issues of Northern governance, politics, and policies of selected circumpolar countries; such as regional governance, devolution, co-management, self-government and land claims, resource development, Arctic sovereignty, climate change, and international cooperation.
POLS 826.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in Aboriginal Public Policy and Administration
An examination of selected topics in Aboriginal public policy and administration. Topics include Aboriginal policy in Canada, comparative Aboriginal-state relations, political theory and rights of Aboriginal peoples, and Aboriginal administrative and management systems.
POLS 827.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in Public Policy and Administration
An examination of selected topics in public policy and administration. Topics include immigration, citizenship, and multiculturalism; health care and social policies; science, technology and innovation; the new public management; management of intergovernmental relations; and accountability in the public service.
POLS 828.3 — 1/2(3S)Policy Planning and Evaluation in Northern Communities
The objective of the course is twofold. The first objective is to provide students with an understanding of various conceptual, theoretical, methodological, ethical, and political issues of relevance for policy and program planning, analysis and evaluation. The second objective is to provide students with an opportunity to produce documents that are commonly used for policy and program planning, analysis and evaluation in the governmental and non-governmental sectors in northern communities.
Permission of the department is required
Restriction(s): Restricted to students in the College of Graduate Studies and Research
Note: Students with credit for POLS 898 "Policy, Planning and Evaluation in Northern Communities" cannot receive credit for this course. Students in the M.N.G.D. program can only receive credit for one of POLS 828 and POLS 848. Students not in the M.N.G.D. program that would like to receive credit for both of POLS 828 and POLS 848 should consult the Head of the Department of Political Studies.
POLS 829.3 — 1/2(3S)Theories of Public Policy and Administration
An introduction to the theories and methods used for describing and analyzing the nature, determinants, and effects of public policy and administration within various political systems at the national and sub-national levels. The theories examined are valuable both for academic and applied analysis of public policy, administration and governance.
POLS 837.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in Political Thought
Examines a topic or issue in political theory, or the work of a particular political theorist, through the examination of selected works in classic and/or contemporary political theory. Topics include problems in the philosophy of social sciences, natural rights, the public interest, justice, obligation, and freedom.
POLS 839.3 — 1/2(3S)Contemporary Political Philosophy
This course studies the scope of Political Theory and the methods of analysis and argument used in the area through an examination of selected classic and contemporary works in political theory.
POLS 847.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in Comparative Government and Politics
An examination of selected topics in Comparative Government and Politics. Topics include Comparative Public Policy, Comparative Politics: Developing Countries, Comparative Politics: Industrialized and Post-Industrialized Countries, Comparative Federalism, and Political Parties and Voting Behaviour.
POLS 848.3 — 1/2(3S)Development Implementation at the Base Monitoring and Evaluation
Is designed to introduce students and practitioners to Monitoring and Evaluation models and techniques that can be applied to governmental programs and projects at the national, provincial/regional and local levels. The goal is to sensitize students to the challenges of M&E in different cultural settings. Local indigenous communities draw on different values, patterns of leadership and behavioral norms than is assumed within Western analytical frameworks. The course will draw on extensive field-based research to offer a more appropriate Monitoring and Evaluation model for development.
Permission of the department is required
Restriction(s): Restricted to students in the College of Graduate Studies and Research
Note: Students in the M.N.G.D. program can only receive credit for one of POLS 828 and POLS 848. Students not in the M.N.G.D. program that would like to receive credit for both of POLS 828 and POLS 848 should consult the Head of the Department of Political Studies.
POLS 849.3 — 1/2(3S)Theory and Method in Comparative Government and Politics
Investigates the range of theories that are being used in contemporary Political Science to examine political phenomena from a cross-national perspective. Also examines the methodological issues that arise in approaching the study of politics and government in this way.
POLS 867.3 — 1/2(3S)Topics in International Relations
An examination of selected topics in International Relations. Topics include The Canadian Foreign Policy Process, Ethical Issues in International Relations, International Terrorism, Nationalism, International Political Economy, and International Trade.
POLS 869.3 — 1/2(2.5S)Theories of International Relations
Surveys and assesses major theories of international relations and examines the assumptions and methodological approaches that underlie them. While this is a survey course and many different theories are examined, the major emphasis is upon those that concern the nature, causes and significance of terrorism in contemporary international relations.
POLS 898.3 — 1/2(3L)Special Topics
Reading, essays, and discussion in an approved special field.
POLS 899.6 — 1/2(3L)Special Topics
Reading, essays, and discussion in an approved special field.
POLS 990Seminar
Papers and discussions on topics in political studies. Graduate students are required to attend and take part in these meetings.
POLS 994Research
Students writing a Master's thesis must register for this course in each term before completion of their degree.
POLS 996Research
Students writing a Ph.D. thesis must register for this course.
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