Course Descriptions
Political science students must enroll in POS 341, POS 342 and either POS 495Z or POS 499Z (permission required; see "Honors Essay Options" below). The course number may vary for students with other majors, but the content will be the same.
POS 341: Washington in Perspective
This course uses current government and politics to evaluate or test some general scholarly ideas about how Washington works. Specific topics will vary. Three credits. A-E grading. Counts toward a POS major or minor. With alternative numbering, may count for some other majors as well.
POS 342: Washington Internship
Nine credits. S/U grading. Does not count toward a POS major or minor.
POS 495Z: Research and Writing in Washington.
Students will write a long, multi-draft research paper that will proceed through stages lasting all semester. Three credits. A-E grading. This course (perhaps with alternative numbering) is required of all Washington Semester students except those who enroll in POS 499Z with advance permission.
Honors Essay Options (POS 495Z or POS 499Z)
Honors seniors who wish to use POS 495Z for their Honors Essay will also enroll in POS 400 for one additional credit. Students who take this option should work with the Washington Semester professor or another thesis advisor during the preceding semester to define and gain approval for a thesis topic. Students who enroll in 499Z will be expected to participate in the class sessions for 495Z.