PAM 3930

Legislative Agenda

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2022-2023.

The course explores the intersection of policy and political strategies on Capitol Hill. Students will learn the inner dynamics of how Members of Congress select, pursue and achieve their policy objectives on Capitol Hill; how policy proposals are developed within various platforms (congressional leadership, committees, working groups and caucuses, the White House); the role of communications strategies in supporting legislative initiatives; the interplay of constituents; the incorporation of policies into amendments, committee markups, report language, managers amendments and other devices. Each session will offer a guest perspective from a Member of Congress or senior staff member. Students will be expected to choose a policy initiative and develop a legislative strategy to achieve implementation.

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Recommended prerequisite: GOVT 1111.

• Describe how congressional offices advance their policy goals on Capitol Hill.
• Analyze how to mount informed strategies that translate policy proposals into public law.
• Outline to prepare themselves to work in a congressional office or other entities which require familiarity with legislative dynamics.
• Demonstrate how students will benefit from intensive guidance on exploring career paths and strategies on Capitol Hill.

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