POLSC 2450 State and Local Government

State and local governments in the United States play an essential, yet often overlooked, role in the lives of their citizens. From setting educational standards and enforcing criminal laws to managing elections and determining zoning and land use, the decisions made at these levels of government shape the everyday experiences of residents.

This course examines the institutions, procedures, politicians, citizens, and public policies of both state and local governments across the U.S. We explore how variations among states and communities can inform our understanding of governance, policymaking, and democratic representation.