History, Political Science, Philosophy, & Geography Department

The programs in history, political science, philosophy, and geography are intended to provide domains of study both for students who desire knowledge for personal enrichment and for students who desire to apply knowledge toward career objectives. Students who major or minor in the fields of the department should expect to develop and refine knowledge of other cultures and the historical and political development of the modern world. Students should also expect to engage in methodical research. Other expectations of students include the ability to prepare rationally cogent papers and the ability to understand political theories, historical movements, and the connections between each.

Departmental programs not only prepare students for occupations in government, business, education, and industry, but also are central to the University’s traditional function of transmitting culture from generation to generation.

Geography

The department extends classes in Geography primarily for students who wish to gain Colorado teacher licensure. There is no major or minor in Geography, but students majoring in a variety of areas would benefit from the Geography classes; e.g., History and Political Science.

Philosophy Program

In addition to exploring the methods, ideas, problems and history of philosophy, the minor in philosophy trains students to think with rigor, clarity and precision. Since these qualities are valuable in virtually any discipline, the minor supports a wide range of majors or career tracks. Philosophy and its sub-discipline of ethics pair particularly well with history, politics, law, literature, the arts, the sciences, business, healthcare, and technology.

Academic Programs

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Geography (GEOG)
History (HIST)
Philosophy (PHIL)
Political Science (POLS)

Geography (GEOG)

Undergraduate Courses

GEOG 101 Physical Geography 3(3-0)

Three Earth spheres: the hydrosphere (oceanography, hydrologic cycle); the atmosphere (meteorology and climatology) and the lithosphere (geology, internal/external processes) are emphasized and examined. (F, S, SS)

GEOG 103 World Regional Geography 3(3-0)

The interconnectivity and interrelationship of the world regions by stressing physical, economic development, agricultural, cultural and population characteristics. Strengthening of one's mental world map. (F, S) (Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS2) (CC)

GEOG 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special Topics. Repeatable.

GEOG 491 Special Topics 3(3-0)

Devoted to special topics in Geography (human, physical, and regional). Prerequisite: Jr. or Sr. standing with adequate preparation and permission of instructor. (F, S, SS) Repeatable (99).

History (HIST)

Undergraduate Courses

HIST 110 World History to 1500 3(3-0)

Emergence of agricultural civilizations; political, economic, and social developments; growth of empires, trade, impact of geography, climate, disease; contact between Eurasia, Africa, Australasia, the Americas. (F, S) (Gen Ed: HS, GT-HI1) (CC)

HIST 111 World History since 1500 3(3-0)

Columbian Exchange; growth of global empires, commerce, and international rivalries and cooperation; industrialization, spreading revolutions, the information age, and the emergence of the modern world. (F, S) (Gen Ed: HS, GT-HI1) (CC)

HIST 136 (CS 136) The Southwest United States 3(3-0)

This course traces the culture and historical development of the southwestern United States, including cultural contributions of the American Indian and Hispanic peoples. (F, S) (Gen Ed: HS, GT-HI1) (CC)

HIST 201 U.S. History I 3(3-0)

United States history from founding of North American colonies to 1877 Reconstruction era. (F, S) (Gen Ed: HS, GT-HI1)

HIST 202 U.S. History II 3(3-0)

United States from 1877 Reconstruction era to contemporary era. (F, S) (Gen Ed: HS, GT-HI1)

HIST 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special Topics. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (AN)

HIST 295 Independent Study (1-3 V)

An individualized program of study designed by ranked, full-time History professor for a promising student. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (AN)

HIST 301 America to 1787 3(3-0)

HIST 302 America, 1787-1877 3(3-0)

HIST 303 America, 1877-1945 3(3-0)

HIST 304 America, 1945-Present 3(3-0)

HIST 311 U.S. & Them: America in the World 3(3-0)

From colonies to superpower, Americans?ÇÖ changing relationships with the world?ÇÖs other peoples, official and unofficial; war and peace, trade and embargo, policy and politics. (S, O)

HIST 312 Colorado History 3(3-0)

History, government and economic factors important to the settlement and development of Colorado. (S, E)

HIST 330 Ancient Greece 3(3-0)

History of Greece from the Bronze Age to the Fourth Century B.C.E., emphasizing political, social, intellectual and cultural developments. (S, E)

HIST 333 Roman Republic 3(3-0)

History of the Roman Republic emphasizing the origin and expansion of Rome and its effect on political, social, intellectual and cultural developments. (F, E)

HIST 334 Roman Empire 3(3-0)

History of the Roman Empire emphasizing political, social, economic and cultural developments. (S, O)

HIST 346 (CS 346) History of Mexico 3(3-0)

This course surveys the major political, economic, social and cultural developments of Mexico from pre-Columbian times to the present. (S, E)

HIST 352 Europe-Emergence, Empire, Evolution 3(3-0)

Survey of European history from late antiquity to the present; medieval period, Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment, Revolutions; modernity, extreme ideologies, World Wars, decolonization, steps to unification. (S, E)

HIST 362 History of Russia 3(3-0)

Cultural and political development of Russian and Soviet history from 800 to the present; emphasis on impact of the Bolshevik Revolution on history. (F, O)

HIST 368 Blood, Tears & Glory: War & History 3(3-0)

How and why societies go to war, fight wars, and deal with the consequences. Provides a global view of military history emphasizing culture and combat. (F, E)

HIST 372 History Of Modern China 3(3-0)

Cultural and political developments in modern China; emphasis on the interplay between Chinese tradition and western challenges. (F, E)

HIST 395 Independent Study (1-3 V)

An individualized program of study designed by a ranked full-time Historian for a promising student who has demonstrated ability in a regular History class. Prerequisite: Previous work in History and permission of Instructor. (AN)

HIST 410 Creation of the US Constitution 3(3-0)

Explores writing and ratification of U.S. Constitution. (S, O)

HIST 413 American West 3(3-0)

Role of the individual and the group in the development of the frontier into the 20th century. (F, O)

HIST 414 The American Civil War 3(3-0)

Social, cultural, and political developments that caused the sectional crisis, secession, and war. War coverage includes military strategy, politics, diplomacy, and emancipation. (S, E)

HIST 415 Civil Rights 3(3-0)

Survey from Reconstruction to Black Lives Matter; particular focus on judicial, presidential, legislative, and grassroots efforts to promote change. (F, O)

HIST 428 (SOC 428, WS 428) Women & Work 3(3-0)

Examines historical and contemporary issues for women of various economic, social, and ethnic groups, especially in the US; examines gender ideologies about paid, unpaid work. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing or permission of instructor. (AN)

HIST 432 Religion and Politics in US History 3(3-0)

HIST 445 Topics in the History of Empires 3(3-0)

Comparative study of empires with in-depth analysis of specific topics and themes. Variable Content. (F, O) Repeatable (9).

HIST 448 Roman Law 3(3-0)

HIST 489 (CS 489) Borderlands 3(3-0)

History of the Mexican cession to the United States from its Indian and Hispanic origins to the present. (S, O)

HIST 491 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special Topics. (AN) Repeatable (99).

HIST 493 Seminar 3(3-0)

Seminar devoted to special topics and issues in history; emphasis on research paper. (S)

HIST 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

An individualized program of study designed by a ranked full-time Historian for a History major or minor. Prerequisite: History major or minor and permission of instructor. (AN)

HIST 498 Internship (3-6 V)

For advanced students. Practical experience through internship with museums, libraries with historical collections, and other community organizations. Recommended: history major or minor with junior or senior status. Prerequisite: Departmental permission. (AN) Repeatable (6).

Graduate Courses

HIST 591 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special Topics. (AN)

HIST 595 Independent Study (1-3 V)

An individualized program of study designed by a ranked Historian and approved by the Graduate Director. Prerequisite: Permission of Graduate Director. (AN) Repeatable (6).

Philosophy (PHIL)

Undergraduate Courses

PHIL 102 Philosophical Literature 3(3-0)

Philosophical literature that focuses on such questions as what is the nature of reality, how do we know what we know, and for what kind of life should we strive. (F, S) (Gen Ed: H, GT-AH3)

PHIL 107 Introduction to Religious Studies 3(3-0)

An introduction to the study of religion, including theories, methods, and practices that scholars employ as they investigate religion. (S)

PHIL 120 Islam and Non-Western Religions 3(3-0)

A study of major world religions including Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Sikhism, Shinto, Taoism, Zoroastrianism. (AN) (Gen Ed: H, GT-AH3) (CC)

PHIL 201 Classics in Ethics 3(3-0)

The logic of objective norms and standards of 'good' vs. 'bad', 'right' vs. 'wrong' from major philosophers and classics of literature. Application to contemporary issues. (F, S) (Gen Ed: H, GT-AH3)

PHIL 204 Critical Reasoning 3(3-0)

Survey of the general principles of correct reasoning with emphasis on the role of language in the reasoning process. Major concern with induction and fallacy detection. (F, S) (Gen Ed: H, GT-AH3)

PHIL 205 Deductive Logic 3(3-0)

Study of the principles and methods used to distinguish valid from invalid patterns of deductive reasoning. Especially useful for students in computer- or mathematics related fields. (AN) (Gen Ed: H, GT-AH3)

PHIL 280 The Ancients: Person, Polis, Cosmos 3(3-0)

Exploration of the ancient origins of Western philosophy with an emphasis on the Presocratics, theSophists, Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. (AN)

PHIL 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Students who have an area of special interest are encouraged to contact the department. Special topics and authors of philosophical interest. (AN) Repeatable (12).

PHIL 295 Independent Study (1-3 V)

Specialized study of select persons, ideas, schools, historical trends or problems in philosophy. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (AN) Repeatable (9).

PHIL 491 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special topics and authors of philosophical interest. May be repeated for 12 credits maximum. More advanced than PHIL 291. Students who have an area of special interest are encouraged to contact the department. (AN) Repeatable (12).

PHIL 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

Specialized study of select persons, ideas, schools, historical trends or problems in philosophy. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (AN) Repeatable (9).

PHIL 498 Internship (3-6 V)

For advanced students. Practical experience through internship with libraries, charitable groups, and other community organizations. Recommended: junior or senior status. Prerequisite: Departmental permission. (F,S,SS,E,O,AN) Repeatable (0).

Political Science (POLS)

Undergraduate Courses

POLS 101 American National Politics (3.0 V)

Basic processes in American politics. Principles and structure of national governments. (F,S) (Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS1)

POLS 102 State and Local Government 3(3-0)

Behavioral aspects, government organization and inter-relationships of state and local politics, relations with federal government and other states. Special attention to Colorado government. (F)

POLS 106 Minority Politics in America 3(3-0)

An overview of the historical and contemporary struggles for empowerment by groups traditionally excluded from full societal participation because of racial designation. (AN)

POLS 201 International Relations 3(3-0)

Introductory study of world affairs. Topics include: international economics, institutions, war, human rights, and the environment. Designed for students with no background in international relations. (F, S) (Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS1) (CC)

POLS 202 Comparative Politics 3(3-0)

Studies politics, political systems, and governance in various countries, from the UK and France to Mexico and China. The course emphasizes comparative analysis and understanding. (S) (Gen Ed: SS) (CC)

POLS 230 War and Film 3(3-0)

Exploration of the relationship between war, film, and political culture. Emphasizes portrayal of war through film and popular interpretation of historical events given this medium. (S, E)

POLS 231 Politics and Film 3(3-0)

Exploration of the relationship between politics, film, and political culture. Emphasizes portrayal of politics through film and popular interpretation of historical events given this medium. (F, O)

POLS 250 Political Analysis & Methods I 3(3-0)

Introduction to methods and tools of research in political science, with a focus on causal inference, statistical inference, and the analysis of quantitative data. (F)

POLS 251 Political Analysis & Methods II 3(3-0)

Workshop in political and policy analysis, with a focus on writing skills, critical data analysis, and independent research. Prerequisite: POLSC 250 (S)

POLS 270 Introduction to Homeland Security 3(3-0)

An overview of homeland security, key threats, challenges and potential responses. (F)

POLS 271 Terrorism 3(3-0)

An examination of extremist groups and private violence in the context of monitoring, prevention, and responses. (S)

POLS 272 Critical Incident Management 3(3-0)

The policies and practices of local first responders, inter-agency relationships, political violence and unconventional weapons. (S)

POLS 275 Public Policy for Peace Officers 3(3-0)

Content on diversity, law, policy, communication, and police procedures. Course is reserved for Peace Officers completing the Police Academy. Credit is awarded concurrently in Criminology, Political Science, & Social Work. (S/U grading). (F,S,SS,E,O,AN)

POLS 291 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Study of Political Events. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (AN) Repeatable (99).

POLS 300 Political Parties and Elections 3(3-0)

Examines the organization and function of political parties and the roles of political parties, pressure groups, and public opinion in American elections. (F)

POLS 305 International Conflict 3(3-0)

Introductory study of arguments related to the outbreak of violent international warfare. Emphasis on coercive bargaining, diplomacy, arms races, and contentious issues. Prerequisite: POLS 201 or permission of instructor. (S, O)

POLS 306 Peace Studies 3(3-0)

Introductory study of arguments related to violent conflict prevention, mitigation, and resolution. Emphasis on international law, peacekeeping, peace building, ethics, and non-violent organization. Prerequisite: POLS 201 or permission of instructor. (F)

POLS 322 American Constitutional Law 3(3-0)

Survey of American constitutional law; emphasis on Supreme Court decisions defining the extent and limits and of governmental authority and the rights and liberties of individual citizens. Prerequisite: POLS 321 or permission of instructor. (S)

POLS 323 Criminal Law and Procedure 3(3-0)

Content and characteristics of criminal law and procedures. Roles and functions of persons and agencies involved in judicial administration. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (F)

POLS 324 Family Law (3.0 V)

Survey of legal issues concerning domestic relations; Supreme Court decisions and legislative enactments. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (S)

POLS 330 Introduction to Public Admin. 3(3-0)

Role of public bureaucracy in modern society. Principles and processes of public administration, personnel management and administrative responsibility. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (F, E)

POLS 340 Public Policy 3(3-0)

Introduces the process of formulation, implementation, and evaluation of public policy. Examines program development and execution in the context of political, economic, and institutional environments. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (F, O)

POLS 350 Political Attitudes and Behavior 3(3-0)

This course studies mass political attitudes, behavior, and psychology, including party identification and opinion formation. It also studies the effects of public opinion on democracy, and methods of survey research. (F)

POLS 360 Media, Politics, and Power 3(3-0)

Assesses the role U.S. media plays in holding power accountable in the digital age. Topics include agenda setting and issue framing, the impact of media on public opinion, and how political actors shape media narratives. (S)

POLS 370 Western Political Thought 3(3-0)

Systematic survey of political thought from beginnings in Ancient Near East to present. Emphasis on contributions relevant to contemporary political theory. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (S)

POLS 373 Intelligence and National Security 3(3-0)

Examines inter-agency relations as well as practical and political elements of domestic intelligence gathering. (S)

POLS 374 Homeland Security and the Law 3(3-0)

Explores the legal and constitutional aspects of homeland security and homeland defense. (F, E)

POLS 375 Threat and Strategic Planning 3(3-0)

Topics include the development of threat assessment and planning, public-private sector resource partnering and crisis communication. (S)

POLS 376 Cyber Law 3(3-0)

Explore domestic and international law and policy governing cyber-related issues such as cybercrime, cyberwar, and the balance between civil liberties and national security in an electronic age. (F, O)

POLS 395 Independent Study (1-3 V)

Independent study involving specialized reading and research. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. (AN) Repeatable (6).

POLS 405 The American Presidency (3.0 V)

Analysis of the powers and politics of the American presidency and those who have held the office. Presidential decision making, legislative and judicial relationships, elections. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (F,E)

POLS 411 The U.S. Congress (3.0 V)

Study of the U.S. Congress structure, law-making, politics and reforms. Prerequisite: POLS 101 or permission of instructor. (F,O)

POLS 430 War and Film 3(3-0)

Exploration of the relationship between war, film, and political culture. Emphasizes portrayal of war through film and popular interpretation of historical events given this medium. (S, E)

POLS 431 Politics and Film 3(3-0)

Exploration of the relationship between politics, film, and political culture. Emphasizes portrayal of politics through film and popular interpretation of historical events given this medium. (F, O)

POLS 440 Nationalism & Ethnic Conflict 3(3-0)

Ethno-nationalist conflict characterizes many of the world's most intractable and violent conflicts. This course studies ethno-nationalist conflict and identity formation in countries around the world. (F,O)

POLS 445 Economic Development 3(3-0)

What explains economic development and inequality? How does political economics vary between rich and poor countries? The course studies the political economy of development in both developed and developing nations. (S,E)

POLS 450 Democracy & Dictatorship 3(3-0)

How do dictators and one-party regimes stay in power? Why do some democracies fail? This course studies comparative dictatorship, comparative democracy, and regime change. (F,E)

POLS 460 U.S. Foreign and Security Policy 3(3-0)

Investigate ongoing contemporary issues, and explore arguments related to strategic policy, political leadership, military development and application, and policy evolution. Prerequisite: POLS 201 or permission of instructor. (F, E)

POLS 473 American Political Thought 3(3-0)

Development of American segment of modern political thought from colonial times to present. Interrelationship of individuals, ideas and institutions shaping modern American political responses. (AN)

POLS 480 Practicum in Politics and Public Service (1-6 V)

For advanced students. Practical experience as interns in governmental agencies, political parties or legal offices. Prerequisite: Departmental permission. (AN) Repeatable (12).

POLS 491 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special topics in political science. Prerequisite: Lower division courses in political science are recommended. (AN) Repeatable (99).

POLS 492 Research (1-3 V)

Original research with a faculty member resulting in a thesis. (AN) Repeatable (6).

POLS 493 Seminar (1-3 V)

Application of research methods and materials. Emphasis on in-depth study of specific political topics. Involves writing and discussion of research papers at advanced level. Prerequisite: POLS 250 and 370 or permission of instructor. (S)

POLS 495 Independent Study (1-3 V)

An individualized program of study designed by a ranked faculty member in the political science program and approved by the program coordinator. (AN) Repeatable (99).

Graduate Courses

POLS 510 Public and Nonprofit Leadership (3.0 V)

POLS 591 Special Topics (1-3 V)

Special topics in political science. Prerequisite: Permission of program coordinator. Corequisite: None (AN) Repeatable (99).

POLS 595 Independent Study (1-3 V)

An individualized program of study designed by a ranked faculty member in the political science program and approved by the program coordinator. Prerequisite: Permission of program coordinator. Corequisite: None. (AN) Repeatable (99).

2020-2021 Catalog

Academic Catalog

History, Political Science, Philosophy, & Geography Department

Geography

Philosophy Program

Academic Programs

Geography (GEOG)

Undergraduate Courses

History (HIST)

Undergraduate Courses

Graduate Courses

Philosophy (PHIL)

Undergraduate Courses

Political Science (POLS)

Undergraduate Courses

Graduate Courses

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