Every four years, the election of a President of the United States captures global attention. The campaign dominates news headlines, generates intense political debate and often appears to be equal parts serious politics and public spectacle. Yet behind the rallies, advertisements and media coverage lies a complex electoral system that can be difficult to understand.

This engaging course explains how American presidential elections really work, from the selection of candidates through to the final declaration of a winner. Discover how the major political parties choose their nominees, the role of party conventions, and the challenges faced by independent and third-party candidates seeking national support.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

• American presidential elections are part politics and part circus - but the outcomes affect the whole world
• How are the candidates chosen by their Parties and what about ""Independent"" candidates - do they matter?
• What is the electoral process and what is this mysterious body called the Electoral College?

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Understand some of the complexities of the American political system and be able to separate the politics from the circus.