United States Politics is designed to survey a wide range of topics in the study of political institutions, policy-making, and elections in the United States. The module explores the American political system with a focus on providing students with a deep understanding of both theoretical perspectives and contemporary practical issues facing the US political system, as well as providing a framework for students to develop an original perspective on each. The module focuses on analysing the origins and logic of the US policy-making process, the means by which political actors seek power and influence in the American system, and the state of democratic representation American society. Students will gain a strong working knowledge of the American political system and an understanding of approaches to research on this topic area.