Course Syllabus

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Class Meeting

V181 U.S. Policy and Administration, Fall 2026

Monday/Wednesday, 11:10 AM - 12:25 PM

SPEA Room PV 167

Course Description

Why has it been so difficult for the United States to deal with immigration challenges, gun violence in cities, or for Congress and the President to smoothly pass a budget? Why have U.S. state and local governments struggled to adopt anti-brutality and racial-sensitivity policies for law enforcement despite the support of nearly 90% of the American public? Why do so many actions at various levels of government seem out of step with public opinion? The answers lie in the complexities of the policy making and implementation process. This course will give you an introduction to that process, including the major groups and institutions that influence it. It will do so by helping you to understand how these forces have shaped some of the most salient policy battles of the last decade. This course will prepare students for later courses on public policy and administration.

 Learning Outcomes 

By the end of the semester, you will (be able to):

  1. Identify and understand how various levels of government (local, state, and federal) play a role in the public policy process.
  2. Understand the role of stakeholders and US institutions in the public policy process.
  3. Be able to identify various types of policy and how they are made and implemented.
  4. Explain how a social or political movement has shaped systems of power within the country.
  5. Identify one or more ways in which individuals and groups in the US have unequal experiences in the policy process.
  6. Articulate and present a case for or against a policy or policy proposal succinctly and thoughtfully.
  7. Use evidence and data to support an argument.

 Required Text

Peters, B. Guy & John Hoornbeek. American Public Policy: Promise and Performance. 13th Edition. (eText)

Additional readings will be posted on Canvas.

Course Summary:

Course Summary
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