Faculty

GOVT-2306 Texas State and Local Government

Ellen Baik

Credit Fall 2026

Section(s)

GOVT-2306-011 (39424)
LEC NRG ONL DIL

LEC TuTh 10:30am - 11:50am NRG NRG2 2119

GOVT-2306-022 (39435)
LEC NRG ONL DIL

LEC MW 10:30am - 11:50am NRG NRG2 2119

Course Requirements

The 8-week Hybrid Classroom (DIL HYC) course combines 50% on-campus and 50% online instruction. This accelerated course starts in mid-October, and involves a fast-paced workload with substantial independent work outside of class. Attendance is not mandatory but regular participation is strongly encouraged. Students who do not attend during the first week may be dropped by the Registrar for non-attendance. Certain course activities require in-person attendance and cannot be made up outside of class.

Readings

The required textbook for the class is available online free of charge in the link provided below.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eW_Izl2M1te67fZ3MCQXpig0_xSf8vpe/view

Optional supplementary text

Brown, Lyle C., et al. Practicing Texas Politics, 18th Edition, Cengage Learning

Course Subjects

Introduction

Federalism & Texas Constitution

Legislative Branch

Executive Branch

Public Policy

Fiscal Policy

Political Parties

Elections

Public Opinion

Media

Interest Groups

Local Governments

Judicial Branch

Criminal Justice System

Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives

1. Explain the origin and development of the Texas constitution.

2. Describe state and local political systems and their relationship with the federal government.

3. Describe separation of powers and checks and balances in both theory and practice in Texas.

4. Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of Texas government.

5. Evaluate the role of public opinion, interest groups, and political parties in Texas.

6. Analyze the state and local election process.

7. Identify the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

8. Analyze issues, policies, and political culture of Texas.

Disclaimer

This is an abbreviated version of the course syllabus. Please see the course blackboard site for a complete version of the syllabus containing important course information, course policies, and course calendar.