PLS 113 - State and Local Government

3 credit hours - Three hours weekly; one term.
This course meets the Social and Behavioral Sciences General Education Requirement.

An intensive study of operations and roles of state and local governments in the U.S. federal system. The interrelationship between national and state governments is studied from a historical as well as from a contemporary perspective. Particular emphasis placed on problems of Maryland state and local governments. A brief review of recent studies in this field is conducted.

Prerequisite(s): Eligibility for ENG 101 /ENG 101A .

Location(s) Typically Offered: Online (OL)

Term(s) Typically Offered: Spring

Course Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Analyze key aspects of state and local government in theory and practice through lectures and readings.
Apply critical thinking skills to government studies through various written assignments.
Understand core issues such as federalism, the impact of governors and state legislatures on policies.
Examine the role of parties, elections, and political participation in state and local government.
Explore the functions of courts, law enforcement, and corrections at the state level.