08 – The Growth of Presidential Powers in Foreign Policy-Making
At a Glance
Time
Two weeks:
Tuesday, Jan. 13 – 20, 2026
9 – 10:30 a.m. CT
Cost
$40.00
Location
Online with Zoom
Class limit 25
Course Description
Presidential powers in directing U.S. foreign policy have grown dramatically over the course of the 250 years of the American Republic. This growth stems from historical, structural, bureaucratic, and individual factors within the American government. This course outlines the evolution of this executive expansion over time, especially since World War II. While Congress and the courts have attempted to rein in these executive powers in recent decades, they have met with limited success.
Instructor
James M. McCormick is an ISU emeritus professor of political science, retiring in 2023 after 48 years. His area was foreign policy and international relations. He authored seven editions of American Foreign Policy and Process and numerous foreign policy articles, as well as editing The Domestic Sources of American Foreign Policy.