SRES 325 Public Policy and Federal Budgets
This course is intended to introduce students to the fundamental elements of the federal budget in the context of political economy and public policy. During the class we will examine the budgetary process and how it has evolved over time. Contemporary proposals to reform the budget process will be considered as well. Careful attention will also be paid to important components of the federal budget including Social Security, Medicare, defense spending, and non defense spending. We will consider various policy reforms as legislators seek to find ways of maintaining popular programs while controlling costs. Finally, the course will conclude by examining some famous budgetary conflicts in recent American history.
Prerequisite
Open to undergraduates with sophomore or higher standing