Ellen Seljan

Ellen Seljan teaches courses in American politics, public policy, research methods, and data science. Her research is in the field of state and local politics, spanning the policy domains of fiscal institutions and election administration. Previous work on fiscal institutions includes analysis of tax and expenditure limits, supermajority requirements to raise taxes, and assessment districting. Her research on election administration has examined campaign finance enforcement and the effect of automatic voter registration laws.

Academic Credentials

PhD in Political Science, University of California, San Diego (2010), BA, Drew University (2004)

Teaching

Spring 2025 Courses:

POLS 307: Contemporary Policy Problems 
TTh 11:30AM - 1:00PM

In-depth examination of some of the most urgent and complex issues shaping the United States today. Policy topics will vary by semester but will be frequently chosen from the domains of housing, the environment, criminal justice, health care, and education. Each policy topic will be explored through an interdisciplinary lens combining political science, economics, and sociology.

Restrictions: Sophomore standing required.

POLS 350: Congressional Politics
TTh 9:40AM - 11:20AM

Constitutional foundations and the unfolding of various concepts of legislative power throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and into the 21st century. The dynamics of Congress, its staffing, and how it and individual members manage different visions of legislative power. Other branches of government examined to illuminate the functioning and malfunctioning of the legislative branch.

Prerequisites: POLS 103 Recommended.
Restrictions: Sophomore standing required.