Students will deepen their knowledge of how presidential and semi-presidential regimes operate, and they will be able to analyze the role of the political parties as crucial actors in shaping the influence of the president.

Presidents of the Republic are crucial actors in both presidential and many (but not all) semi-presidential regimes. Despite the fact that those regime types represent the majority of all the world’s political systems, the role of the heads of state has only received more systematic attention. Particularly the presidential party remains understudied both theoretically and empirically. Drawing on comparative research and on illustrative examples from various countries, the course shows how the party of the president is a key political actor that affects presidential activity during her or his mandate and impacts on electoral and legislative outcomes.

Registration by email to the teacher before 31.3.2019.

Course evaluation is based on attendance and a written assignment (deadline 30 April). The course is taught as a three-day intensive lecture series as the teacher is visiting Tampere for a week through the Erasmus teacher exchange scheme.

Compulsory preceding studies: POLPOP02 Introduction to Political Science, or equivalent studies at sending institution (exchange students).

5 ECTS for Bachelor's level completion (POLVOA31 & POLVOA32)
10 ECTS for Master's level completion (POLVOS27)