Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2025 - POL 315 B100

Intermediate Quantitative Methods (4)

Class Number: 4988

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Jun 20, 2025: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    May 12 – Jun 20, 2025: TBA, TBA
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    POL 201 or permission of instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces intermediate quantitative methods and data analysis. Teaches students how to build statistical models and apply them to social and political research. Also covers the fundamentals of probability, sampling, and causal inference; students will learns how to conduct their own data-driven research. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course covers causal inference and intermediate quantitative methods. This course is intended for political science students who have completed POL201 and who now want to learn applied multiple regression analysis, with a focus on ordinary least squares (OLS) regression. Students will develop an intuitive and applied understanding of regression analysis/regression diagnostics.

Note:  FLEXIBLE ATTENDANCE OPTIONS—CONTACT PROFESSOR ABOUT ACCESSING LECTURES REMOTELY.

Grading

  • Participation (quizzes and student presentation) 15%
  • Problem Set 1 15%
  • Problem Set 2 15%
  • Midterm exam 20%
  • Final take home exam 35%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

TBA

REQUIRED READING:

TBA

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.