PLSC 309HQuantitative Political Analysis

3 credits · Political Science · Penn State

This course introduces students to research design and quantitative analysis techniques used in political science with an aim toward developing transferrable skills for future coursework in the political science major, especially the senior thesis process. Students will learn how to construct theories and design studies, how to quantify concepts, and how to test theories using a variety of statistical techniques, including descriptive analysis, correlation, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis. The course will include classroom lectures and computer lab time to enable students to work hands-on with datasets. This course is the first in a three-course sequence for students interested in writing an honors thesis in political science.