Committees and Parties in Congress
Woodrow Wilson once noted that Congress in committees is Congress at work. However, the parties and their leaders play a key agenda-setting role, one of increasing importance in recent years. This course examines the role of congressional parties and committees, the inherent tension between the two, and their development over time.
Specific topics may include:
- The structure and functions of congressional parties and committees
- Development of the congressional committee system
- How committee rosters are determined and the role of chairs
- The role of committee staff
- The evolving role of party leaders and their importance
- The powers of party leaders versus committees
- Congressional polarization trends over time
- Contemporary reform issues
Research Seminars meet approximately four times for two hours, over the course of 12 weeks. The first meeting date is published, with the others determined at the first class.
NOTE: If a class is indicated that it will be conducted in an online format expect a mix of live virtual sessions/instruction and a few supplemental components to be completed independently. We will provide additional details to all enrolled participants as we get a little closer to the start date of the class.
Download the Certificate Program Application (PDF) and review the Application Procedures.
2025 Date:
September 23, 2025 (first class meeting)
Tuition: $1,400
Next Course: TBA
