Faculty with the Bob Graham Center for Public Service will be offering these courses for the Spring 2025 semester.
IDS 4911: Civic Scholars Research
(Section 24667) The Civic Scholars program offers UF undergraduates an opportunity to engage in a semester of entry-level research to gain better understanding of quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Spring 2025 scholars will gain an introductory understanding of interdisciplinary social science research approaches while learning about critical public policy issues impacting global communities. Civic Scholars should be prepared to enroll in a 2-credit course instructed by Graham Center faculty, and will present their research in an end-of-semester symposium in April. The course is offered Monday and Wednesday. Taught by Professor Marianne Vernetson and Dr. Teresa Cornacchione. Registration is departmentally controlled. Submit your interest form at this link.
IDS 4930/PAD 3003: Public Service Management and Leadership
(Section 24657) This is an upper-level interdisciplinary studies course that will serve as an introduction to managing and leading public service organizations. Knowing how these entities work and how to work within them are two of the most powerful tools that students can have. Students will learn how to diagnose and solve organizational challenges, anticipate opportunities, and influence the actions of individuals and stakeholders. Through lecture, guest speakers, case studies, small-group discussions, and a semester-long group project, the course provides students with introductory tools needed to lead impactful public service entities. Now cross-listed as PAD 3003 with the Department of Political Science.
INS 2004: Perspectives in International Studies
(Sections 12931, 12932, 12933, 12934) This course offers all UF students an introduction to international studies, exploring global regions and contemporary issues through an interdisciplinary approach. Topics include globalization, political and economic change, poverty, development, migration, nationalism, human rights, and human-environment interactions. Drawing from fields like political science, economics, and anthropology, the course equips students with tools to analyze and address global and local challenges. While it is the introductory course for the International Studies major, it is open to all students, regardless of their major.
New! IDS 4930: Comparative Gulf Studies: Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Mexico
(Section 24784) Explore two regions of unparalleled global significance in this innovative interdisciplinary course on the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Mexico – the only two gulfs in the world that are routinely referred to simply as “the Gulf” – without the geographical designation – as if their significance goes without saying. In this course, we will both capitalize on and interrogate this distinction, unveiling fascinating intersections between these pivotal regions. We will delve into the complex interplay of fossil fuel and renewable energy politics from Texas to Qatar, examine Cold War dynamics and revolutions from Cuba to Iran, investigate urban hyper-tourism from Miami to Dubai, and analyze migration politics from Florida to Saudi Arabia. No prerequisites required. Join us to uncover the surprising connections and thought-provoking contrasts that make these regions central to understanding our interconnected planet.
IDS 4930/PUP 3323/WST 4930: Women and Politics
(Section 24588/20997/23016) Women represent approximately half of the world’s population, yet they are underrepresented in government institutions, such as legislatures, party leadership, and national executives. What explains this phenomenon? In this course, students explore how descriptive representation translates to substantive representation, which electoral laws and systems favor the election of women, and how women behave once in elected office. Students will learn about the changing role of women in the electorate, including women’s voting behavior and preferences. This course will take a comparative approach and investigate women and their relationship to politics cross-nationally, across all the regions of the globe. This course is cross-listed with the Departments of Political Science and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies.
IDS 4930: Introduction to Gulf Studies: Collaborative Solutions for Sustainable Futures
(Section 24661) This course explores the environmental, social, cultural, and economic challenges facing the Gulf of Mexico region. Students will engage in design thinking methodology to explore solutions that address these complex issues. Through guest speakers, readings, discussions, case studies, and project-based learning, participants will strengthen their collaborative skills and gain insights into potential career pathways in non-profits, government, academia, and the private sector. By fostering empathy and understanding community needs, students will be equipped to make a meaningful impact on the Gulf and contribute to its sustainable and equitable future. The course is taught by Professor Rebecca Burton.