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Glen Sussman




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POLS407


POLS 407: American Presidency

Professor Glen Sussman
Office Hours:  Monday and Wednesday, 2 - 3:30 pm
Office:  BAL 7034
E-mail:  gsussman@odu.edu
Office Phone:  683-3857
Classroom:  BAL 2056

This course is an examination of the office of the presidency, presidential power, and presidential leadership in domestic politics and the foreign policy arena. The course describes and analyzes the presidential selection process, the president's relationship with the public and political actors within other institutions of government, the decision-making process, presidential personality, and the policy making process. The course will conclude with an evaluation of presidential performance.

Course Goals

  • Understand the theories, concepts, participants, and institutional arrangements associated with the American presidency
  • Improve descriptive and analytical skills
  • Improve writing skills
  • Improve verbal communication skills
  • At the conclusion of the course, students should have a better understanding of the institution of the presidency and the occupants of the White House.

Course Requirements

  • Two Exams.  The exams will consist of short answer and essay questions. See section on "Evaluation."
  • Research Paper.  See section on the "Research Paper."
  • Student groups. See section on "Student Group Project."
  • Participation in class discussions.

Course Expectations

  • Come to class on time, and read the assigned readings before class
  • Do not be disruptive during class (e.g., talking, arriving late, texting). Smart phones must be turned off during exams (of course, you can put them on vibrate for emergencies). Violation of this class policy (3 times) will result in a 15 point reduction in your final grade. You have been warned!
  • While I encourage student participation in class, be civil and treat the other students with respect.
  • Laugh at my jokes.  In fact, I encourage it.

Course Announcements

  • Honor Code and Code of Student Conduct: Students should be mindful of the Honor Code and the code of student conduct. See the University catalog, pp. 15-20.
  • Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment will not be tolerated. Be mindful of the University policy on this matter in the University catalog, pp. 12-13, 21.
  • Accomodation of Students with Disabilities: If you need assistance, classroom accomodations will be provided. Consult with your instructor at the beginning of the semester. See the University catalog, pp. 7-8.

E-mail Communication

Students are required to use their ODU e-mail account when communicating with the instructor.

Course Evaluation/Student Opinion Surveys

Student course evaluations are conducted online.  You will receive reminders from the university near the end of the semester encouraging you to complete evaluations of your courses. Student course evaluations are very helpful to the instructors, the college and the university. Your instructor strongly encourages you to take a few minutes and complete your evaluation of your courses each semester.