Understand Government, Democracy and Civic Engagement

Emmanuel's certificate program in civics helps you understand how government works, how public policy is shaped and how citizens can participate in civic life. Drawing on political science, history, sociology and education, you'll explore the foundations of American government, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and the institutions that influence public life.

Learning extends beyond the classroom through firsthand civic experiences, including legislative sessions, court proceedings, naturalization ceremonies, school board meetings and community engagement activities. By connecting academic study with real-world participation, you'll develop the knowledge, critical thinking and civic leadership skills needed to engage thoughtfully in public life and strengthen democratic institutions.

The Curriculum

View the 2024-2025 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.

Required Courses:

  • HIST1106 America Since 1877 (H) (HI) 
  • POLSC1201 Introduction to American Government and Politics (SA) (SS) (SJ) 
  • SOC1105 Major Institutions in US Society (SA) (SS) 

Students would also be required to attend two experiences/events and write a one to two-page reflection piece on each event. These reflection pieces would be reviewed by a member of the committee and be a requirement to begin the 4000-level experiential component:

  • Court case
  • Lobbying Day at the State House
  • School Board Meeting
  • Naturalization ceremony
  • Citizenship workshop
  • Legislative session

One of the following:

  • IDS4178 Independent Study (with any member of the Civics program)
  • IDS4194 Internship (within the School of Education, for example, tutoring individuals going through the naturalization process)

Students are encouraged to take a few of the courses from the list below, although none are required.

  • EDUC1111 The Great American Experiment (SA) (SS) (SJ) 
  • HIST1105 America to 1877 (H) (HI) 
  • HIST2105 America since the 1960's (HI) 
  • POLSC2228 State and Local Government
  • POLSC3201 Congress, Representation, and the Legislative Process 
  • POLSC3202 The American Presidency
  • POLSC3607 Constitutional Law

Upon the completion of the Civics certificate, student will:

  • Understand the structure of U.S. government, including the federalist system, the three branches of government, and the Electoral College.
  • Recognize the historical factors that led to the development of the system as it stands, including the role of slavery.
  • Examine how demographics, including gender, race, ethnicity, age, social class, and geography, have historically and through today influenced the system of government.
  • Experience in a hands-on way how all levels of government influence our daily lives.

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