Political Science
The Department of Political Science offers courses in American government and politics, race and ethnicity in American politics, voting, urban politics, social welfare policy, the American presidency, the European Union, Chinese politics, Japanese politics, the politics of the Middle East and Africa, the history of political thought, mass media and politics, Latin American politics, political theory, American foreign policy, nationalism, and mathematics and qualitative research for political science and political research. The department also offers seminars in comparative politics, American politics, and international politics.
For questions about specific courses, contact the department.
For questions about specific courses, contact the department.
Courses
This course considers key questions at the foundation of political thought. What is justice? How do we justify the coercive power of states? Do we have an obligation to obey the government? Who should make and enforce the law? What basic rights and liberties should governments protect? How should our economic system produce and divide wealth and material resources? What are the claims of excluded or marginalized groups and how can these claims be addressed? We explore these questions through the works of several classical and contemporary political thinkers. A major goal of the course is to practice the skills needed to understand a political thinker’s arguments and to construct one’s own.
Course Number
POLS1101V001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-11:25We 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/14904Enrollment
100 of 100Instructor
Karuna MantenaCourse Number
POLS1111V001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1111V002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1111V003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1111V004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1111V005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1111V006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1201V001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 17:40-18:55Th 17:40-18:55Section/Call Number
001/00036Enrollment
221 of 380Instructor
Michael MillerCourse Number
POLS1211W001Points
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W007Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W008Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W009Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W010Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W011Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W012Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W013Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1211W014Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1501V001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 08:40-09:55Th 08:40-09:55Section/Call Number
001/14905Enrollment
127 of 150Instructor
Benjamin McClellandThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V007Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V008Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V009Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN1501.
Course Number
POLS1511V010Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis introductory course surveys key topics in the study of international politics, including the causes of war and peace; the efficacy of international law and human rights; the origins of international development and underdevelopment; the politics of global environmental protection; and the future of US-China relations. Throughout the course, we will focus on the interests of the many actors of world politics, including states, politicians, firms, bureaucracies, international organizations, and nongovernmental organizations; the interactions between them; and the institutions in which they operate. By the end of the semester, students will be better equipped to systematically study international relations and make informed contributions to critical policy debates.
Course Number
POLS1601V001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 14:40-15:55Th 14:40-15:55Section/Call Number
001/00746Enrollment
213 of 213Instructor
Gideon RoseCourse Number
POLS1611V001Points
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1611V002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1611V003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1611V004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1611V005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1611V006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS1611V007Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsDiscussion section for POLS BC3605
Course Number
POLS3005X001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsDiscussion section for POLS BC3605
Course Number
POLS3005X002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS3019X001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/00466Enrollment
8 of 12Instructor
Katherine KrimmelCourse Number
POLS3025X001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-11:25We 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/00456Enrollment
18 of 18Instructor
Katherine KrimmelThe Arctic region is warming more than twice as fast as the rest of the world, and greater portions of the Arctic Ocean are becoming ice-free much faster than anyone had expected even a few years ago. This is having a huge impact on the politics of the region, and is what social scientists call a “natural experiment” (even though it is the result of human activity) or an “exogenous shock” to the status quo. The fact of climate change has implications for virtually every realm of politics and policy: from local governance to cooperative international institutions, from commercial trade to military security, from environmental disasters to economic windfalls (including for indigenous communities). In this colloquium we will explore these changes and their implications, relating each of them to enduring concepts in political science. Each student will choose one case (or a set of related cases) to explore in depth, in an original, argumentative, independent research paper.
Course Number
POLS3060X001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/00467Enrollment
12 of 12Instructor
Kimberly MartenCourse Number
POLS3220W001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-11:25Tu 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/14907Enrollment
76 of 70Instructor
Jeffrey LaxThis course will introduce students to research on the institutions of the US carceral system, including the police, courts, prisons, and immigration control. We will focus on two questions: how race relates to experiences with the institutions of the carceral state, and how those institutions in turn influence racial politics. The main objective is not the accumulation of factual knowledge about this system, but familiarity with theoretical frameworks with which to make and critically assess arguments about the functioning of carceral institutions as they relate to racialized people and the functioning of democracy.
Course Number
POLS3255W001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 16:10-17:25We 16:10-17:25Section/Call Number
001/14908Enrollment
100 of 100Instructor
Andrew McCallCourse Number
POLS3290W001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-11:25Tu 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/14909Enrollment
74 of 100Instructor
Robert EriksonCourse Number
POLS3334X001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/00468Enrollment
12 of 12Instructor
Michael MillerThe term “kleptocracy” literally means “rule by thieves” and refers to the extensive grand corruption that elite rulers, allies and their family members engage in to privately enrich themselves at the expense of their populations. Traditionally, kleptocracy has been viewed as a scourge on developing countries, associated with greedy authoritarian rulers in conflict-prone, resource rich and/or aid dependent states. However, in recent years scholars and policymakers have increasingly become aware of the critical role played by international actors, institutions, legal structures and professional service providers that facilitate kleptocracy at a global level. Unlike other transnational illicit sectors such as narcotics trafficking or terrorism, many aspects of kleptocracy networks are publicly visible and perfectly legal. Overall, these networks function to enable the domestic plundering of these elites, the whitewashing of their reputations, and the exacerbation of vast inequality, both within the countries that kleptocrats systemically plunder and between the Global South and the West which receives and benefits from many of the proceeds of these corrupt activities.
The first part of the course (Weeks 2-5) examines the transnational actors, service professionals and institutions that facilitate money laundering by kleptocrats. The second part (Weeks 6-7) concentrates on how kleptocrats launder their reputations, by presenting themselves as global philanthropists or business professionals and by acquiring residency in other jurisdictions through the growing market for citizenship. The final part of the course (Weeks 8-10) examines recent developments in international policy efforts to counter kleptocracy, including incorporating such efforts into national security strategies, enacting extraterritorial legislation to punish corporate bribery, sanctioning individual kleptocrats and oligarchs, and amending libel laws in countries like the UK that are routinely used by kleptocrats to intimidate journalists and deter investigations into their dealings.
Finally, throughout the course we will grapple with the methodological challenges posed by trying to study and detect illegal and secretive patterns of behavior. What are the tools, resources and research techniques available to researchers and policy makers interested in making more evidence-based assessments about kleptocracy and grand corruption?
Course Number
POLS3367X001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/00469Enrollment
12 of 12Instructor
Alexander CooleyHow can we build peace in the aftermath of extensive violence? How can international actors help in this process? This colloquium focuses on international peacemaking, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding efforts in recent conflicts. It covers general concepts, theories, and debates, as well as specific cases of peacebuilding successes and failures. Cross-listed with Human Rights.
Course Number
POLS3411X001Points
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
001/00470Enrollment
12 of 12Instructor
Severine AutesserreCourse Number
POLS3500X001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
001/00471Enrollment
11 of 12Instructor
Xiaobo LuCourse Number
POLS3521X001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
001/00038Enrollment
47 of 47Instructor
Paula FranzeseClimate change mitigation is the greatest global political challenge of our times. This course uses concepts drawn from the broader political science literature to analyze the recent history and possible future trajectories of interactions between international politics and climate change, including the international political economy of various relevant commercial sectors. It has no prerequisites, and no background knowledge is required.
Course Number
POLS3605X001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 14:40-15:55We 14:40-15:55Section/Call Number
001/00458Enrollment
38 of 38Instructor
Kimberly MartenThis upper-level undergraduate course examines the intersection of international politics and international economics. It covers an analysis of the historical background to and contemporary reality of the political economy of international trade, finance, and investment; problems of economic development; and globalization. This class does not have a specific economics or political science prerequisite, but it does assume a general understanding of historical and contemporary political and economic events. As a 3000-level course, this class would not be an appropriate choice for students who have not already taken introductory courses in political science, such as in international relations or comparative politics. This course would be appropriate for economics-political science joint majors
Course Number
POLS3630W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-11:25We 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/16070Enrollment
19 of 60Instructor
Jeffry FriedenThis course is concerned with what policy the American government should adopt toward several foreign policy issues in the next decade or so, using materials from contradictory viewpoints. Students will be required to state fairly alternative positions and to use policy analysis (goals, alternatives, consequences, and choice) to reach conclusions.
Course Number
POLS3631W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 13:10-14:25Th 13:10-14:25Section/Call Number
001/14910Enrollment
90 of 90Instructor
Elizabeth SaundersCourse Number
POLS3632W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS3632W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS3632W003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS3632W004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS3632W005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS3632W006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsDiscussion section for POLS UN3630, Politics of International Economic Relations
Course Number
POLS3634W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsDiscussion section for POLS UN3630, Politics of International Economic Relations
Course Number
POLS3634W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsDiscussion section for POLS UN3630, Politics of International Economic Relations
Course Number
POLS3634W003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsDiscussion section for POLS UN3630, Politics of International Economic Relations
Course Number
POLS3634W004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis course examines the basic methods data analysis and statistics that political scientists use in quantitative research that attempts to make causal inferences about how the political world works. The same methods apply to other kinds of problems about cause and effect relationships more generally. The course will provide students with extensive experience in analyzing data and in writing (and thus reading) research papers about testable theories and hypotheses. It will cover basic data analysis and statistical methods, from univariate and bivariate descriptive and inferential statistics through multivariate regression analysis. Computer applications will be emphasized. The course will focus largely on observational data used in cross-sectional statistical analysis, but it will consider issues of research design more broadly as well. It will assume that students have no mathematical background beyond high school algebra and no experience using computers for data analysis.
Course Number
POLS3704W001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 08:40-09:55We 08:40-09:55Section/Call Number
001/14914Enrollment
35 of 35Instructor
Shigeo HiranoThis class aims to introduce students to the logic of social scientific inquiry and research design. Although it is a course in political science, our emphasis will be on the science part rather than the political part — we’ll be reading about interesting substantive topics, but only insofar as they can teach us something about ways we can do systematic research. This class will introduce students to a medley of different methods to conduct social scientific research.
Course Number
POLS3720W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 18:10-19:25Th 18:10-19:25Section/Call Number
001/17424Enrollment
3 of 70This is the required discussion section for POLS UN3720.
Course Number
POLS3722W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN3720.
Course Number
POLS3722W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN3720.
Course Number
POLS3722W003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN3720.
Course Number
POLS3722W004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN3720.
Course Number
POLS3722W005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS UN3720.
Course Number
POLS3722W006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsSeminar in Political Theory. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3911W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/14915Enrollment
6 of 20Instructor
David JohnstonSeminar in Political Theory. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3911W002Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
002/14916Enrollment
13 of 20Instructor
Jean CohenPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 18:10-20:00Section/Call Number
001/14917Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Robert AmdurPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W002Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 18:10-20:00Section/Call Number
002/14918Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Carlos Vargas-RamosPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W003Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
003/14919Enrollment
4 of 20Instructor
Judith RussellPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W004Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
004/14920Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Greg BovitzPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W005Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
005/14921Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Michael TingPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W006Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
006/14922Enrollment
20 of 20Instructor
Yamil VelezPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W007Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
007/14923Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Shigeo HiranoPrerequisites: the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Seminar in American Politics Seminar. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3921W008Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
008/14924Enrollment
17 of 20Instructor
Fredrick HarrisPrerequisites: POLS V1501 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Please see here for detailed seminar registration guidelines: http://polisci.columbia.edu/undergraduate-programs/seminar-registration-guidelines. Seminar in Comparative Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3951W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/14925Enrollment
20 of 20Instructor
Junyan JiangPrerequisites: POLS V1501 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Please see here for detailed seminar registration guidelines: http://polisci.columbia.edu/undergraduate-programs/seminar-registration-guidelines. Seminar in Comparative Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3951W002Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
002/16950Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Timothy FryePrerequisites: POLS V1501 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Pre-registration is not permitted. Please see here for detailed seminar registration guidelines: http://polisci.columbia.edu/undergraduate-programs/seminar-registration-guidelines. Seminar in Comparative Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3951W003Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
003/16951Enrollment
2 of 20Instructor
Zara RiazPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/14926Enrollment
1 of 20Instructor
Allison CarnegiePrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W002Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
002/14927Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Virginia Page FortnaPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W003Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
003/14928Enrollment
3 of 20Instructor
Jack SnyderPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W004Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
004/14929Enrollment
22 of 20Instructor
Calvin thrallPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W005Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Fr 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
005/16953Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Giulio GallarottiPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W006Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
006/16954Enrollment
6 of 20Instructor
Linda KirschkePrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W007Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 18:10-20:00Section/Call Number
007/16955Enrollment
7 of 20Instructor
Jayme SchlesingerPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W008Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
008/16956Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
David SpiroPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W009Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
009/17605Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Sarah DalyPrerequisites: POLS UN1601 or the equivalent, and the instructors permission. Seminar in International Politics. Students who would like to register should join the electronic wait list. For list of topics and descriptions see: https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/undergraduate-seminars
Course Number
POLS3961W010Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
010/17663Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Tenzin DorjeeCourse Number
POLS3998W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/14930Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Kimuli KasaraThis course will compare and contrast the theories of the political, the state,freedom, democracy, sovereignty and law, in the works of the following key 20th and 21st century continental theorists: Arendt, Castoriadis, Foucault, Habermas, Kelsen, Lefort, Schmitt, and Weber. It will be taught in seminar format.
Course Number
POLS4110G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/17478Enrollment
1 of 20Instructor
Jean CohenPrerequisites: Contemporary Civilization or a comparable introduction to political theory course. This course examines ancient political thought from its origins in the archaic Greek poleis through the development of classical Greek political philosophy and the transmission and adaptation of Greek political ideas in the Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian traditions. Our texts will include major ancient works of political theory by Plato, Aristotle, and Cicero as well as works of poetry, drama, history, and ethical and natural philosophy that offer insight into ancient thought on politics. We will approach these texts not only as reflections on the ancient democratic, oligarchic, monarchical, and republican political systems they address, but also as foundations for modern political discourse that still prompt us to consider the questions they raise—questions about the ideal form of government in theory, and the best form in practice; about the nature of law and justice, and the relationship between law and custom, science, or religion; about the rule of law, and the rights and obligations of an individual citizen living in a participatory state; and about the reach of empire, and the implications when a self-governing people attempts to direct the affairs of non-citizens or of other states.
Course Number
POLS4132G001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 11:40-12:55Th 11:40-12:55Section/Call Number
001/17431Enrollment
0 of 15Instructor
Diana MoserCourse Number
POLS4461W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 14:40-15:55Th 14:40-15:55Section/Call Number
001/15260Enrollment
79 of 90Instructor
Maria Victoria MurilloCourse Number
POLS4466W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4466W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4466W003Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4466W004Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4466W005Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4466W006Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4471G001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-11:25Tu 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/15261Enrollment
19 of 70Instructor
Junyan JiangCourse Number
POLS4472G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
001/17644Enrollment
0 of 20This course presents basic mathematical and statistical concepts that are essential for formal and quantitative analysis in political science research. It prepares students for the graduate-level sequence on formal models and quantitative political methodology offered in the department. The first half of the course will cover basic mathematics, such as calculus and linear algebra. The second half of the course will focus on probability theory and statistics. We will rigorously cover the topics that are directly relevant to formal and quantitative analysis in political science such that students can build both intuitions and technical skills. There is no prerequisite since this course is ordinarily taken by Ph.D. students in their first semester. The course is aimed for both students with little exposure to mathematics and those who have taken some courses but wish to gain a more solid foundation.
NOTE: This course does not satisfy the Political Science Major/Concentration research methods requirement.
Course Number
POLS4700W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 11:40-12:55We 11:40-12:55Section/Call Number
001/17464Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Benjamin GoodrichThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4700.
Course Number
POLS4701W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis course examines the basic methods of data analysis and statistics, through multivariate regression analysis, that political scientists use in quantitative research that attempts to make causal inferences about how the political world works. The same methods apply to other kinds of problems about cause and effect relationships more generally. The course will provide students with extensive experience in analyzing data and in writing (and thus reading) research papers about testable theories and hypotheses.
Course Number
POLS4710W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 16:10-17:25Tu 16:10-17:25Section/Call Number
001/16962Enrollment
9 of 30Instructor
Abdullah AydoganThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4710.
Course Number
POLS4711W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4710.
Course Number
POLS4711W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThe digital revolution has created previously unimaginable opportunities to learn about political behavior and institutions. It has also created new challenges for analyzing the massive amounts of data that are now easily accessible. Open source software has reduced barriers and inequities in coding, but it also requires different kinds of effort to employ optimally the latest innovations. Harnessing the power of political data is more critical than ever, given the threats that misinformation and alternative “facts” present to democratic forms of government.
This course will teach students both essential tools and general strategies of data science within the domain of politics. Whether students’ goals are to analyze political behavior for academic or professional purposes, successful analysis requires skills for handling a wide array of issues that stand in the way of creating knowledge and insights from data.
This course prioritizes breadth over depth in the sense that we will introduce a broad range of topics relevant for data science to develop basic skills and form a foundation that students can build on. More complete mastery of these skills will require additional engagement beyond this course.
Course Number
POLS4716W001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 14:40-15:55Th 14:40-15:55Section/Call Number
001/15862Enrollment
14 of 40Instructor
Gregory WawroFitting and understanding linear regression and generalized linear models, simulation, causal inference, and the basics of design of quantitative studies. Computation in R. Textbook: Regression and Other Stories by Gelman, Hill, and Vehtari.
Course Number
POLS4720W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-11:25We 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/15418Enrollment
6 of 40Instructor
Andrew GelmanThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4720.
Course Number
POLS4721W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsIn this course, we will discuss the logic of experimentation, its strengths and weaknesses compared to other methodologies, and the ways in which experimentation has been — and could be — used to investigate social phenomena. Students will learn how to interpret, design, and execute experiments. Special attention will be devoted to field experiments, or randomized trials conducted in real-world settings.
Prerequisites: Students should have taken at least one or two semesters of statistics. Some understanding of probability, hypothesis testing, and regression are assumed. Familiarity with statistical software such as R is helpful. We will be working with data in class throughout the term. The examples used in the textbook and lectures are written in R, and R tutorials will be taught in special sessions early in the term.
Course Number
POLS4724W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 16:10-17:25Tu 16:10-17:25Section/Call Number
001/15263Enrollment
14 of 40Instructor
Donald GreenThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4724.
Course Number
POLS4725W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4724.
Course Number
POLS4725W002Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS4732W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-11:25We 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/17641Enrollment
0 of 15Instructor
Carlo PratoCourse Number
POLS4733W001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsThe course focuses on the nexus between energy and security as it reveals in the policies and interaction of leading energy producers and consumers. Topics include: Hydrocarbons and search for stability and security in the Persian Gulf, Caspian basin, Eurasia, Africa and Latin America; Russia as a global energy player; Analysis of the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on energy markets, global security, and the future of the energy transition; Role of natural gas in the world energy balance and European energy security; Transformation of the global energy governance structure; Role and evolution of the OPEC; Introduction into energy economics; Dynamics and fundamentals of the global energy markets; IOCs vs NOCs; Resource nationalism, cartels, sanctions and embargoes; Asia's growing energy needs and its geo-economic and strategic implications; Nuclear energy and challenges to non-proliferation regime; Alternative and renewable sources of energy; Climate change as one of the central challenges of the 21st century; Analysis of the policies, technologies, financial systems and markets needed to achieve climate goals. Climate change and attempts of environmental regulation; Decarbonization trends, international carbon regimes and search for optimal models of sustainable development. Special focus on implications of the shale revolution and technological innovations on U.S. energy security.
Course Number
POLS4814W001Format
In-PersonPoints
3 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 10:10-11:25We 10:10-11:25Section/Call Number
001/16960Enrollment
9 of 30Instructor
Albert BininachviliCourse Number
POLS4845G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
001/17463Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Charles FreilichThis course examines how domestic and international politics influence the economic policies of developing countries. We will critically evaluate different theoretical debates related to foreign economic policymaking in emerging markets, and introduce chief methodological approaches used in contemporary analyses. We will focus attention on different types of cross-border flows: the flow of goods (trade policy), the flow of people (immigration policy), the flow and location of production (foreign investment policy), the flow of capital (financial and monetary policy), and the flow of pollution (environment policy). In the process, we will address several themes that are central to understanding the politics of economic policymaking in emerging economies, including, the legacies of colonialism, trade protectionism and liberalization, globalization and the race to the bottom, the relationship between economic policy and culture, and development and redistribution. There will be an emphasis on applying concepts through the analysis of policy-relevant case studies designed for this course.
Course Number
POLS4863W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/15264Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Nikhar GaikwadThis course explores key frameworks and issue areas within international political economy. It examines the history and key characteristics of (economic) globalization, the theories of international cooperation, as well as the nature and role of international organizations (such as the World Trade Organization) in fostering trade and international economic cooperation. Furthermore, the course discusses the pros and cons of globalization and its implications on domestic policies of nation-states, with a particular focus on the tensions globalization creates and the lines of cleavages between winners and losers from globalization. Finally, the course reflects on the future of globalization and international trade and the challenges faced by national and supranational policy makers.
Course Number
POLS4865W001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 14:40-15:55Th 14:40-15:55Section/Call Number
001/16958Enrollment
4 of 20Instructor
Davit SahakyanThis is the required discussion section for POLS GU4865.
Course Number
POLS4866G001Format
In-PersonPoints
0 ptsCourse Number
POLS5000G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Fr 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/15265Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Chiara SupertiCourse Number
POLS5000G002Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Fr 12:10-14:00Section/Call Number
002/15266Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Chiara SupertiPrerequisites: the instructors permission prior to registration. A survey of selected issues and debates in political theory. Areas of the field discussed include normative political philosophy, history of political thought, and the design of political and social institutions.
Course Number
POLS6101G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/15268Enrollment
1 of 20Instructor
Turkuler IsikselCourse Number
POLS6211G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/15269Enrollment
3 of 20Instructor
Yamil VelezThis is the first course in the two-semester sequence surveying covering foundational research in comparative politics across the developed and developing world. The course is designed for Ph.D. students preparing for comprehensive exams and who intend to conduct research relating to comparative politics, and has two core objectives. The first objective is to expose students to a range of arguments organized around questions motivating major research agendas in comparative politics. The second objective is to expose students to processes of theorizing, hypothesis formation, and testing and to strengthen students’ analytical skills in evaluating and critiquing political science research. It should go without saying that these two classes cannot exhaustively cover the many important works, topics, and methodologies in the field.
The Fall semester of this sequence will primarily focus on citizen-level and politician-level behaviors, while the Spring semester will focus on more macro-level institutions and applications of the building blocks covered in this course. However, it is not necessary to take the classes in a particular order.
Course Number
POLS6411G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/15270Enrollment
1 of 20Instructor
John MarshallCourse Number
POLS6801G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/15271Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Jack SnyderThis course will examine the work of the twentieth-century thinkers often lumped together as “neoliberals,” as well as some of the scholarly literature around neoliberalism that has proliferated in recent decades. We do not begin from the assumption that neoliberalism has a single clear and coherent meaning. Instead, we will ask some of the following questions: Is there such a thing as neoliberalism at all? If so, how does its meaning differ from other terms of analysis such as “liberalism” or “capitalism”? Is neoliberalism best understood as an intellectual movement, or as a social formation whose key characteristics may not be captured in the works of its theorists? When did neoliberalism begin, and how might identify its end?
Course Number
POLS8160G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 14:10-16:00Section/Call Number
001/17629Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Daniel LubanPOLS GR8228 is designed as a graduate-level introduction to the study of political communication. As an introduction to the field, it is structured to cover a wide range of topics and methodological approaches. No single course can provide comprehensive coverage of a fascinating subfield with as long and diverse a history as political communication. As such, this seminar will focus on relatively recent work. Students will leave this course with a strong grasp of major theories, trends, methods, findings and debates in this area of study, as well as the gaps in our knowledge and promising directions for future research.
Course Number
POLS8228G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Mo 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
001/15272Enrollment
3 of 20Instructor
Eunji KimCourse Number
POLS8235G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 08:10-10:00Section/Call Number
001/15632Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Andrew McCallPrerequisites: the instructor's permission. A graduate seminar designed to explore the content, process, and problems of China's political and economic reforms in comparative perspective. Please see the Courseworks site for details
Course Number
POLS8471G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
We 16:10-18:00Section/Call Number
001/00459Enrollment
11 of 20Instructor
Xiaobo LuPrerequisites: the instructors permission prior to registration. This is a survey course in international political economy. This course examines how domestic and international politics influence the economic relations between states. It will address the major theoretical debates in the field and introduce the chief methodological approaches used in contemporary analyses. We will focus attention on different types of cross-border flows and the policies and international institutions that regulate them: the flow of goods (trade policy), the flow of people (immigration policy), the flow and location of production (foreign investment policy), the flow of capital (financial and exchange rate policy), and the flow of pollution (environment policy). The goal of this course is to cover, in some depth, many of the main topics and readings in international political economy. The readings each week are designed to tackle some of the essential points of a substantive topic, as well as raise deeper methodological questions that have application to other issues and themes in the sub-field. Not coincidentally, a related goal is to partially prepare students for the IR Field Exam. To help with that, a number of recommended readings accompany each weeks topic.
Course Number
POLS8804G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Th 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/15274Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Nikhar GaikwadThis course explores the causes, dynamics and outcomes of civil wars and insurgencies. It addresses when and why violence is employed in place of peaceful solutions to conflict and what accounts for individual and mass recruitment into armed organizations. It aims to understand variation in warring groups’ cohesion, repertoires of violence, and relations with civilians, state counterinsurgency methods, and the political economy of conflict. The course concludes by examining war duration and termination. Students will be pushed to grapple with research written in many traditions including philosophical, statistical, game theoretic, and qualitative materials.
Course Number
POLS8854G001Format
In-PersonPoints
4 ptsFall 2024
Times/Location
Tu 10:10-12:00Section/Call Number
001/17643Enrollment
0 of 20Instructor
Sarah DalyThis course explores the literature on domestic politics and international relations. It is intended to be an illustrative, rather than exhaustive, overview of this area of international
relations scholarship. It will concentrate on recent developments in the literature, including new understandings of the domestic politics of both authoritarian and democratic regimes