POL 367: Fiscal Policy and Budgeting

Course Description

This course is intended to introduce students to the fundamental elements of the federal budget. 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 entitlements, defense spending, and discretionary 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. (OC).