Online Class: American Government

Explore the intricacies of the American government through this online course, which details the organization and function of its branches, the role of the public, and the influence of media and political parties on governance. Designed for a diverse range of learners, the material offers valuable insights into America's system from historical underpinnings to present-day policies within a self-paced environment.

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  • 18
    Lessons
  • 48
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 3,630
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 16
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.6
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Do you need to brush-up your knowledge of the American political system?  Have you forgotten or feel slightly 'hazy' about the structure of the American government, the details of the Constitution or the exact division of the three branches of government? Are you interested in discovering how our current political parties were formed or the impact of public opinion, mass media and special interests groups on today's American policies?  If you answered "yes" to these questions, this online course can be your ideal learning resource.

Rather than focusing on the history of the American federal government, this course is a comprehensive evaluation of how the government is set up and how it works. We will start with a look at how the American government is organized, and then we will focus on American culture and how it forms the environment in which the government functions, and the influences that the citizenry exerts on the policy-making process. Public opinion plays an important role in any republic so we will examine how public opinion is measured and how it contributes to the democratic process.

The citizens of United States enjoy many freedoms and liberties, but, as in all republics, they also live according to a Constitution and an established set of laws. We will examine the balance between freedom and law, and discuss the development of civil liberties. The political participation of Americans, both as individuals and as a part of interest groups influences nearly all functions of the government. We will also take a look at the media's increasingly important role in politics, and how the political parties of the United States work together to create legislation.

The social welfare and safety of Americans is a significant part of the priorities of the federal government. This course will outline the development of important programs that have served as model to other governments throughout the world. In the process, we will also evaluate how public policy is made from several important perspectives: economic, foreign relations, and environmental. 

Created with the belief that understanding the foundations of the America system of government is necessary to fully comprehend America's current political system, this self-paced course is appropriate for learners of any age (homeschoolers, high schoolers, college students or just inquisitive people). Our easy-to-understand online format is perfect for those seeking review, extra tutoring, test prep or general educational enhancement.

Course Motivation

More than ever, it’s important for people to have an understanding of how the American political system operates.  We live in a world where knowledge is power and studies have shown that those individuals who have an in-depth understanding of such diverse fields as American government to economics to literature tend to fall into the higher income brackets.

In addition to applications in business, those who know American government can find themselves filling important roles in their local communities.  We live in a world where it’s important to understand the American government and see where it came from and how it has changed throughout the years.

Many of us have forgotten the details of how the American government works.  We learned it in high school and then promptly forgot about it.  However, this course is designed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the government – learning about such things as the impact of mass media upon government, as well as how special interest groups can actually cause a policy change.

As yet another election cycle comes around, it’s perfect for you to brush up on your knowledge of the American government and apply that to your life.  While others might be reluctant to enter a conversation dealing with politics because of their lack of understanding of the subject, you’ll be able to voice your opinions in an intelligent, thoughtful, and historically correct manner – all of which will affect the way that you are viewed by those around you.

This course has been designed for those who wish to understand America’s current political system by exploring the foundation of the government.  The course is self-paced and is appropriate for all ages – whether you are a student being home schooled or you’re in college or you just want to enrich your own understanding of politics. 

Gone are the days when learning about government was dull and boring.  In this course, you will learn aspects of the American government that were never covered in your learning.  It is specifically designed to give you a broad understanding of how government works and to assist you in understanding the importance of each individual within the scope of the American government.

In this course, you’ll be exposed to the following:

·        The origins of the American government:  You’ll find out how this present government evolved from the original English colonies.

·        The structure of the Constitution:  In which you’ll see the care and understanding that the founding fathers put into this document, which has provided such an incredible foundation for today’s society.

·        How the Constitution applies to the individual:  You will understand what the Constitution means to the average citizen and learn how each of the various amendments works in our everyday lives.

·        The structure of the House of Representatives and the Senate:  Students will learn the differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate, and see how both are composed. 

·        The three branches of government:  You will learn the structures of the Legislative Branch, the Judicial Branch, and the Executive Branch – gaining an understanding of the three branches and how they interact with each other, working with a series of “checks and balances.”

·        The role in the political process of public opinion:  Students will understand how public opinion can be used within the political process.  You will see how mass media can be used to sway public opinion and how that can then influence the various branches of the government.

·        The role of special interest groups:  You will understand what special interest groups are, what functions they serve, and how they are a part of the governmental process. 

·        Understanding political parties:  Students will understand just what it is that makes up a political party and what the role of the individual is in the workings of the entire governmental process.

·        The voting process:  Students will examine the voting process and discover how it applies to their lives.  In addition, you will see the importance of each individual having and using their vote.

·        An introduction to American economic, foreign, and public policies:  Students will see how the role of American government affects things on a global level.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.4 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(2,770 votes)

Lesson 1. Influence of Enlightenment on American Political Ideals

55 Points
The Declaration of Independence, crafted by Thomas Jefferson, articulated democratic ideals that governments should protect citizens' inherent rights. Despite its revolutionary message, the document initially excluded many groups from its promises of equality and liberty. Additional lesson topics: Continental Congress
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: 7550446rz49179.png
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam

Lesson 2. Navigating Governance: Understanding the Separation of Powers

140 Points
The U.S. Constitution emerged as a new governance model on September 17, 1787, addressing the flaws of the Articles of Confederation by creating a federal system that shares power across three branches. This separation of powers, with checks and balances, was designed to prevent tyranny and facilitate effective governance. Additional lesson topics: The Making of the Constitution
  • Lesson 2 Video A
  • Lesson 2 Video B : Lesson 2 Discussion
  • Complete Assignment: What were they thinking about?
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam

Lesson 3. The Core of American Lawmaking: Understanding the U.S. Congress

75 Points
Congress holds extensive powers like regulating commerce, maintaining the military, and overseeing the federal budget. It leads the legislative process from bill introduction to presidential approval, illustrated by significant laws like the Affordable Care Act. Additional lesson topics: Legislative Branch; Is the Legislative Branch the Most Powerful; Indepth Look at Legislative Branch
  • Lesson 3 Video A
  • Lesson 3 Video B : Lesson 3 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment: Senate
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment: House of Representatives
  • Complete Assignment: Is the Legislative Branch the Most Powerful Agent of Government?

Lesson 4. The Role of the U.S. Judicial Branch in Upholding Justice

25 Points
The U.S. Judicial Branch is crucial for interpreting laws and ensuring justice, serving as a check on legislative and executive powers to protect constitutional rights. It comprises two parallel systems, federal and state courts, that collaborate to administer justice locally and nationally. Additional lesson topics: What it's like being a Supreme Court Justice
  • Lesson 4 Video A
  • Lesson 4 Video B : Lesson 4 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 4 Assignment: Judiciary Branch

Lesson 5. Guardians of Governance: Executive Departments Explained

135 Points
The Executive Office of the President assists in governance, housing bodies like the National Security Council, which coordinated crucial responses during crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis. By advising on security and economic policies, these offices help the President navigate complex challenges, reinforcing strategic national objectives. Additional lesson topics: Is the President an Elected King?; President Bush -- More Powerful than King George?; The Executive Branch
  • Lesson 5 Video A
  • Lesson 5 Video B : Lesson 5 Discussion
  • Complete Assignment: Is the President an Elected King?
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam

Lesson 6. Liberty and Equality: The Foundations of American Political Culture

34 Points
American political culture is a complex blend of historical legacies, ideals, and evolving societal values, vividly demonstrated in the 2016 presidential election that highlighted major themes like liberty, equality, and ideological conflicts. Despite low voter turnout, Americans partake in political discourse through voting, demonstrations, and digital platforms, showing politics' deep-rooted presence in daily life. Additional lesson topics: Separation of Church and State; Losing Liberty in America
  • Lesson 6 Video A
  • Lesson 6 Video B : Lesson 6 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam

Lesson 7. Democracy vs. Republic: Unpacking America's Governance

80 Points
Democracy, encompassing models like direct and representative systems, enables citizen participation either directly or through elected officials, facilitating policy-making. However, direct democracy's logistical challenges in large societies like the U.S. render representative democracy more feasible, balancing citizen input with efficient governance. Additional lesson topics: Public Opinion in America
  • Lesson 7 Video A
  • Lesson 7 Video B : Lesson 7 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Public Opinion and the Presidency
  • Complete Assignment: Can Public Opinion be Bought?
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam

Lesson 8. Electoral Dynamics: From Campaign Arenas to Voter Influence

34 Points
Campaign finance in U.S. elections involves vast expenditure, leading to debates about equity as candidates raise funds from individual donations and special interest groups. The rise of Super PACs and decisions like Citizens United v. FEC highlight ongoing campaign finance reform issues, reflecting on political influence and fairness. Additional lesson topics: Election Process; Electoral College v. Popular Vote
  • Lesson 8 Video A
  • Lesson 8 Video B : Lesson 8 Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Elections
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson 9. Unequal Influence: Analyzing Elite Theory and Pluralism

55 Points
Interest groups, unlike political parties, focus narrowly on specific issues, reflecting and advocating for a variety of public concerns while facing criticism of promoting elite interests. The rise of social media has empowered these groups to mobilize grassroots support, increasing their public visibility and impact. Additional lesson topics: Special Interest Groups
  • Lesson 9 Video A
  • Lesson 9 Video B : Lesson 9 Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Interest Groups
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Special Interest Groups
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam

Lesson 10. Civil Liberties: Pillars of U.S. Democracy

60 Points
Civil liberties ensure protection against government overreach, enabling individuals to participate freely in society while being shielded from discrimination. Historical civil rights movements have progressively extended these liberties, embodying the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Additional lesson topics: Civil Liberties in America
  • Lesson 10 Video A
  • Lesson 10 Video B : Lesson 10 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Are Civil Liberties all inclusive?
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam

Lesson 11. The Dynamics of Voter Turnout and Political Involvement

55 Points
PACs wield substantial influence by funding campaigns and mobilizing voters, often aligning with significant political issues. Enabled by legal changes such as Citizens United, PACs play a critical role in shaping campaign dynamics and outcomes through financial support and strategic advocacy. Additional lesson topics: Voter Turnout In America
  • Lesson 11 Video A
  • Lesson 11 Video B : Lesson 11 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Disadvantages of PAC's
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam

Lesson 12. The Heart of Democracy: Understanding Political Parties

35 Points
Founded on anti-slavery principles, the Republican Party champions fiscal conservatism and social traditionalism, promoting lower taxes and business deregulation while reinforcing Second Amendment rights and appointing conservative judges. Additional lesson topics: Conservative v. Liberal in America
  • Lesson 12 Video A
  • Lesson 12 Video B : Lesson 12 Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Political Party
  • Complete: Lesson 12 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam

Lesson 13. Media and Politics: An Ongoing Evolution

35 Points
Embedded in the First Amendment, freedom of the press is a critical aspect of democracy, enabling the press to act as a watchdog on government power without fear of censorship. Landmark cases like Near v. Minnesota reinforced this right, preventing prior government restraint and empowering the media to report truthfully. Additional lesson topics: Social Media and American Politics
  • Lesson 13 Video A
  • Lesson 13 Video B : Lesson 13 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 13 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Exam

Lesson 14. The Social Safety Net: America's Assurance in Economic Trials

55 Points
The expansion of U.S. social welfare under President Lyndon Johnson's Great Society initiatives introduced transformative programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Despite being overshadowed by the Vietnam War, these policies significantly improved American healthcare access and poverty reduction.
  • Lesson 14 Video A
  • Lesson 14 Video B : Lesson 14 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 14 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Social Welfare In America
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam

Lesson 15. Navigating the Legislative Labyrinth: U.S. Policy-Making Explained

55 Points
After thorough committee reviews, bills face rigorous debate and amendment in the House and Senate, differing mainly in procedural rules like the filibuster. Through comprehensive discussions and changes, this phase ensures legislative measures are well-rounded and vetted before presidential review. Additional lesson topics: Policy Making Process
  • Lesson 15 Video A
  • Lesson 15 Video B : Lesson 15 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 15 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Are Public Policies good for all?
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam

Lesson 16. Blueprint for Prosperity: Inside the U.S. Budget Process

53 Points
The Congressional Budget Act of 1974 lays the foundation for creating a U.S. Federal Budget, pivotal in determining government spending and revenue forecasts. The Pay-As-You-Go rule ensures fiscal discipline by requiring that any new spending on entitlement programs is matched by revenue increases or spending cuts elsewhere. Additional lesson topics: US Budget; Mandatory v. Discretionary Spending
  • Lesson 16 Video A
  • Lesson 16 Video B : Lesson 16 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 16 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: FDR and American Economic Policy
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Exam

Lesson 17. Balancing Acts: National Interests in a Globalized Age

55 Points
The Cold War era defined U.S. foreign policy through an ideological contest with the Soviet Union, leading to strategic initiatives like the containment policy. Though the Cold War ended, contemporary U.S.-Russia relations remain complex, with renewed tensions influencing modern foreign policy. Additional lesson topics: History of American Foreign Policy
  • Lesson 17 Video A
  • Lesson 17 Video B : Lesson 17 Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 17 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: President Biden's Foreign Policy in the Middle East
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Exam

Lesson 18. Progress vs. Protection: U.S. Environmental Policy Insights

116 Points
The evolution of U.S. environmental policy highlights the tension between industrial development and ecosystem preservation, notably in sectors like fossil fuels and manufacturing. Current policies emphasize renewable energy adoption, biodiversity protection, and regulatory measures to mitigate climate change effects.
  • Lesson 18 Video A
  • Lesson 18 Video B : Lesson 18 Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: What is your opinion of this course?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete: Lesson 18 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: test
  • Complete Assignment: Can any President Solve the Clean Water Issue In America?
  • Assessment: Lesson 18 Exam
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
1152
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Summarize the major points of the Bill of Rights and the U.S. Constitution.
  • Identify and describe the role and responsibilities of the Legislative Branch, the Judiciary Branch, and the Executive Branch.
  • Summarize the power of public opinion and the affects of mass media on politics.
  • Identify and describe the major political parties and interest groups.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: American Government
Course Number: 7550446
Lessons Rating: 4.4 / 5 Stars (2,770 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is offered online and is accessible in every state across the U.S., including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. Learners in English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and South Africa can also enroll.
Last Updated: March 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 1.6 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I thought that this course was very informative. I liked the fact that I was challenged because that means that I was learning new things about the American Government. This course was very well done. Thank you." -- Sarah M.
  • "The instructor was very knowledgeable in the class material. Helped with any questions I might have. I'm glad the class was available and I learned alot about the course material." -- Lance D.
  • "He is amazing and glad I got the opportunity to take his course. I will look for other courses offered by him." -- Anna D.
  • "Really enjoyed Mr. McKenna. His lecture were the best part of each session. I love to hear his opinion and thought provoking questions. He really draws you into the subject matter. He has broadened my horizons!" -- Carolyn G.
  • "The course instructor was always available and provided excellent feedback on all my assignments. And the lessons were always interesting." -- Steven C.
  • "The instructor was extremely helpful, prompt with responding to all completed assignments, and thought provoking with questions and comments relating to the submitted material." -- Sally K.
  • "The instructor is awesome. I get my scores back quickly and positive feedback is always included." -- Michael W.
  • "The professor is very knowledgeable in the subject." -- Gamal G.
  • "The instructor was helpful, enthusiastic, and provided quick feedback for my efforts." -- Judith J.
  • "One could not have a better instructor." -- John D.
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