This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2025-2026 VCU Bulletin. Courses that expose students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning may be added and notification of additional program approvals may be received prior to finalization. General education program content is also subject to change. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
DMCY 200. U.S. Democracy United/Divided. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. As the United States anticipates the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the course brings together faculty experts from a variety of disciplines in the College of Humanities and Sciences to lecture on topics relating to American democracy. The course examines the history of American democracy, the role of institutions, civic participation, political polarization, media influence and issues of representation. Students will critically assess the current state of democracy and areas of unity and division in the country through readings and discussions and engage in a group research project to explore in-depth an area of American democracy and propose pathways for the future.