ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2016-2017
184
general categories of human rights—for example, political, economic, social and cultural
rights. Special attention is paid to the International Criminal Court, war crimes, genocide,
children’s rights, human trafficking, modern slavery, workers’ rights, gender and health
issues, the environment, indigenous rights, torture, and punishment. Student engagement
with a human rights institution is a requirement. Prerequisite: at least junior standing.
Spring of odd-numbered years.
PS 445 Democratization (1)
An advanced course addressing the theoretical issues generated by the wave of
democratization that began in the early 1970s. It explores democracy’s diverse
understandings and practices with an emphasis on comparative analyses of transitions
from authoritarian rule and the problems associated with democratic consolidation.
Prerequisite: GCS 100 or PS 238.
PS 450 Religion and Politics in America (1)
Explores the relationship between religion and politics in America. Emphasis is placed on
the role of religion in American culture and how religion affects politics. (Also listed as
HON 450 and RE 450.)
PS 470 Seminar for Majors (1)
An exploration of issues in political science. Prerequisite: senior standing.
PS 472 Senior Research Project in Political Science (1)
Extension of PS 470 Seminar for Majors. This course functions as a capstone experience
where students conduct independent research under the supervision of the political
science faculty and where they come together to discuss key issues for the discipline. In
addition to completion of significant research, which will be presented to the campus
community, students will take up important questions for political science such as the
future and scope of the discipline, quantitative versus qualitative analysis, and the
application of political science to the solution of problems confronting community.
PS 473 Selected Topics (1)
Selected topics in political science, varying according to individual needs. Open only to
junior and senior majors in political science. Fall.
PY - Psychology
PY 101 Introduction to Psychology (1)
An introduction to the research, theory, and methods of psychological science. Fall,
Spring.
PY 108 Developmental Disabilities
(1)
An introduction to developmental disabilities and mental retardation in children. Topics
will include history, causes, treatment/education, behavioral interventions, and family
issues related to specific disabilities. Spring.