AMER0115: US Elections and Political Behaviour

***RUNNING IN 2025/2026***  Term 2, Thursdays 9-11am (provisional timing, subject to change).  Please email ia-programmes@ucl.ac.uk to enrol (details will appear in the module catalogue in the end of August refresh). 

Tutor: Dr Andrew Proctor

Level: 5

Credits: 15

Term: 2

The module introduces students to the study of US electoral politics and political behaviour. It includes historical and contemporary applications to provide a wholistic examination of US elections. The module examines how diverse actors, including voters, political parties, candidates, and media interact to shape elections. Lectures will highlight theories and debates in the US politics literature, focusing on how social groups form the basis of political life in the US. The module introduction will include a primer on the US election system to provide a foundation for students unfamiliar with US politics. Next, we proceed with foundational concepts in studies of US political behaviour. Here we unpack theories and concepts regarding partisanship, ideology, and polarization. The module then examines political participation by exploring theories of civic engagement, self-interest and identity, and the political behaviour of marginalized groups. Next, we focus the lens on political parties and candidates, political campaigns, and the media to better understand the context of elections. Finally, the module concludes with a reflective discussion about the future of US electoral politics and democracy around the globe.

Assessment:

100% Essay (3,000 words)