General provisions

The course is a self-contained course.

Entry requirements

En B (specific entry requirements 2)

Requirements have been lowered in relation to the original specific entry requirements.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will

- be able to account for the basic features of the political system in the US

- be able to demonstrate insights into US domestic and foreign policy and into issues involving voter participation, political parties, and the roles of the courts and the media

- be able to give oral and written accounts of some of the problems and challenges facing US politics today.

Content

The course provides an overview of the basic features of the US political system. Special attention is paid to the challenges facing US domestic and foreign policy today. Challenges include globalisation, a more and more multicultural society, the impact of the media on politics, and the voter participation in political life.

Instruction

Campus course: Lectures and group instruction. English is the language of instruction.

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.

Internet-based course: Teaching is done in the the virtual learning environment. A number of on-campus meetings for group instruction may be added. English is the language of instruction.

Assessment

Campus course: Examination is done both orally and in writing and by continuous assessment. Grades used are either Fail, Pass, or Pass with Distinction.

Internet-based course: Written exam. 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.

A student who has failed certain test two times has at one's own request right to obtain another examiner appointed.

Course level in relation to degree requirements

The course cannot be included as main field of study in a Bachelor's degree.

Other directives

For admission to the course American studies B1 a further 22.5 credits from American studies A are required. The course cannot be counted toward a degree together with the course American Studies A1

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 two occasions during the following semester. Normally this right then expires. Otherwise there are no limitations on the number of examination opportunities.

Transitional provisions

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