Seminar in Urban Affairs

Course Description

An examination of influences affecting decisions in the urban political arena. Covers segments of the community that impact the decision-making process (i.e., employee groups, labor influences, community groups, media and other special interests). Examines the relationship between intergovernmental agencies.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the American political structure.
• Explain the concept of American Federalism and its implementation in national, state and local government administration.
• Analyze the political party system and its effectiveness in representing citizens, minorities, issues, staffing and government funding for programs and services.
• Describe the roles of political leaders at the state and local level and their influence on government management, finance and bureaucracy.
• Explain the structure of court systems and the impact of judicial decisions on law enforcement and community politics, participation and programs.
• Analyze the models of community power and their effectiveness in determining and controlling land use and urban planning.
• Explain the role of ethics in the political decision-making urban arena.
• Analyze key urban cases and political philosophy, programs and procedures for dealing with civil rights and education.
• Describe, analyze and evaluate how voting patterns and demographic factors impact political urban decisions.