Public Policy and Governance (PGOV 101)

A society’s ability to rationally consider different perspectives, approach problems from multiple directions, and discuss issues with an open mind, is closely linked with the health and well-being of its political discourse and governance system. Likewise, critical thinking and problem solving are at the foundation of effective policymaking, along with research, analysis, communication, and teamwork. The overarching objective of this course is to create a space where you can practice these skills and endeavour to think rationally, creatively, and empathetically as you consider how to best shape the world around you. In this class, students discuss ideas with people from different backgrounds and perform hands-on public policy research on topics of pressing concern to Canada and the world. We will explore questions such as: What is public policy and how is it made? What are the staples of effective governance? How might we best approach complex problems as a society? What are some of the indicators of good leadership? The ultimate learning goals for PGOV 101 include developing superior research, writing, and analytical skills – all of which can be directed towards a better and more nuanced understanding of complex public policy challenges.

Public Management (PGOV 302)

This course provides students with an introduction to the structures, processes, and debates in public administration in Canada. It is an examination of the mechanisms by which the state is run and the crucial governing principles that underpin Canadian democracy. This includes state finances and administration, federal-provincial relations, the bureaucracy, and the role of the judiciary in policy making. Students will practice policy writing, budgeting, research, and analysis – tying together theory and practical case studies to generate a comprehensive understanding of what makes the state function.

Strategic Governance (PGOV 401)

Over the past three years, the PGOV program has endeavoured to show students the human element of public policy. Law, regulations, and programs do not take place in a vacuum; they require public support and the politicians shaping them desire re-election. This class is a look at the strategic level of governance. We study the shaping of public opinion and the creation of friendly environments for the execution of that policy. Conversely, we are also going to study attempts by our adversaries to create hostile information environments, which make effective governance more difficult. Students should leave this class with a better understanding of how governments win support for their ideas, convey their messages, and work within their legal, political, and other systems to advance their agendas. 

Senior Seminar in Public Policy and Governance (PGOV 402)

PGOV 402 is a senior seminar in public policy. Building on three years of PGOV courses, this course will develop and test students’ understanding of critical policy areas as well as their ability to analyse the complex costs and benefits to any government action or inaction. Based on a series of case studies, the class will see students apply broad principles and analytical frameworks to unique policy areas. As a seminar, success in this class will hinge on the ability to engage thoughtfully and critically with the topic, the readings, and other students.

Canadian Military History (HIST 297)

This course will examine Canada’s history in war, armed conflict, and peacekeeping from the early 20th century to the present. While it will touch on the development of the Canadian Militia and pre-confederation conflicts, we will focus on the First and Second World Wars and the Cold War years. Through the lens of Canada’s military history, this class will help students to better understand not only the country’s activities in global conflict, but the development of the Canadian state itself, including the industrial economy, social development, and Canadians’ very sense of nationhood.

History of the Canadian North (HIST 298)

The idea of “northerness” is central to our national identity, yet few “southern” Canadians have an appreciation of the historical development of Northern Canada.  This course will introduce students to major themes in the Canadian Northern history, with a focus on political and economic developments during the 20th century. Major themes will be sovereignty, defence, economic development, and international Arctic relations. The course will also extend beyond the history of the region to look at the contemporary Arctic, and how the historical trends observed over the past century are continuing – and evolving today.

Power & Politics (PSCI 101)

This course introduces students to the discipline of political science. It will expose students to a variety of core topics and concepts while demonstrating methods and systems for analyzing politics and power dynamics in society. The course provides a foundation for students planning on higher-level political science courses, and an overview for those with a general interest in government and politics. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify and summarize key concepts in political science, apply these concepts to contemporary events, and think critically about the world around them.