My teaching interests span the fields of American politics and public policy areas. I enjoy teaching across these fields and various multidisciplinary policy areas in the social sciences.

Professor Vicino's Courses at Northeastern University:

POLS 2345 Urban Policies and Politics
Undergraduate-Level

Analyzes the political, administrative, economic, and social dynamics of urban areas. Highlights the diversity of political institutions and practices in American cities. Introduces key policy areas at the city level such as land use, economic development, and education.


POLS 2357 Growth and Decline of Cities and Suburbs
Undergraduate-Level

Introduces students to the field of urban studies. Focuses on these central issues: how cities and suburbs evolve, what makes a city or suburb a good place to live, and how cities and suburbs are (or are not) planned. Students review the ways in which urban scholars and practitioners study cities and suburbs, their research methodologies, definition of issues, and division of labor among different disciplines. Students explore the roles of individuals, communities, the private sector, and government in planning and shaping the city.


POLS G203 Techniques of Policy Analysis
Graduate-Level

This course provides an intensive introduction to the study of public policy. Its goal is to show students a systematic approach for understanding the origins, formulation, implementation, and impacts of governmental "outputs." Following a review of key analytical concepts and theoretical perspectives, the political dimensions of public policymaking—as well as the technical aspects of program design and evaluation—will be considered within the general framework of the "natural history" of the policymaking process. Lectures and class discussions will make use of case examples drawn from a broad spectrum of policy areas.