2.6

David Darmofal

Political Science - University of South Carolina

2.6
Quality
3.0
Difficulty
34%
Would Retake
115
Reviews
2.6
Quality
3.0
Difficulty
2.6
Helpful
2.6
Clarity

34%

Would Retake

115

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

12

4

21

3

26

2

24

1

32

What Students Say

Easy A if you put in the studying time

POLI360 - 3.0 rating

There are only 3 tests but if you show up to class and take notes the test comes directly from them

POLI201 - 4.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

9%

Textbook Required

13%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 77 grades
Most common grades:
A (23)
A+ (15)
Not sure yet (15)
Grade Distribution
A(38)B(14)C(4)D(8)F(0)A-/B+(17)
Based on 96 reported grades
A: 23
A+: 15
Not sure yet: 15
B+: 12
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (51)
Lecture heavy (51)
Graded by few things (47)
Test heavy (37)
Get ready to read (9)
Clear grading criteria (6)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
Skip class? You won't pass. (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-1.36 avg change
Jan
Apr
May
Jun
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

POLI502

4.5

(2)

POLI105

4.0

(1)

POLI463

4.0

(4)

POLI360

3.4

(14)

POL360

3.3

(3)
+3 more courses
Difficulty by Course

POLI502

5.0

POLI2O1

3.7

POL201

3.3

POLI201

2.9

POL360

2.7

Reviews (115)
5.0
5.0
POLI502
Dec 3, 2006

This is a really difficult graduate class but he made it very understandable. If you have to take Stats, take it with him!! He is very approachable and will help you any time he can. Exams are very fair. Don't use your cellphone in class!!!!!!!

5.0
2.0
POL360
May 17, 2007

Great class and friendly prof. He gives you a study guide before each of the 3 tests that will make up your grade so you know exactly what to study for the test. Readings are a must as is attendance as the notes are crucial. Tests are all M/C but the ?s can be tricky so do the study guide. He'll help you any way he can. Class was interesting.

4.0
5.0
POLI502
Aug 22, 2007

He does well at explaining difficult concepts. However, I got more out of 'Stats for Dummies' than our text book. He seems irrationally hard at times. He wouldn't accept homework from people 3 min late for class. He relied on his TA too much(he would leave)for the STATA segment of class when he should have been there to explain difficult concepts.

3.0
2.0
POLI360
May 13, 2008

has a very monotone voice and will put you to sleep. doesn't put the notes online so unless you have someone to get them all from, you pretty much have to go. bring your laptop to type your notes on so you can play solitaire while he repeats himself 3 or 4 times. tests aren't that hard if you study. slides come right out of the book, but he's picky

4.0
1.0
POLI105
May 13, 2010

This class was extremely easy (it was virtually the same as my high school government class). His monotone voice could lull anyone to sleep. Attendance was not mandatory, but you needed to go to class if you wanted to get the notes. It was definitely advantageous to get the notes though because the exam questions came from the notes.

4.0
1.0
POLI463
Dec 10, 2011

Attendance is not mandatory but if you want the notes you need to go. Class is extremely boring. Read the notes over and over starting two days before the test and you should be fine. Wasn't that hard to make an A. If you can hustle people in your class to send you notes from each day and you won't have to go.

3.0
3.0
POLI360
May 6, 2012

Alright professor, not the nicest person, repeats himself, I couldn't focus on what he was saying because he was so boring. Not a hard class, but the tests are the only things that are graded in this class, 30% for the first two exams (equaling 60%) and then 40% for the final exam. Offers one extra credit opportunity that adds 2pts to final grade.

5.0
2.0
POLI360
Mar 24, 2015

This class is a breeze. You need to go to class to get the notes, but you can sit on your computer the whole time while he repeats himself. All you need to study are the notes he gives: tests questions come directly from them. I got a 100 on the first test. Super boring, but an easy A and I'm not even a poli sci major. Don't buy the textbook.

4.0
3.0
POLI360
May 15, 2015

Grade was made up of 3 tests which were multiple choice; gave an opportunity for extra credit; very bland lectures, no chance for participation and attendance isn't mandatory. If you're looking for a class to be a zombie in or just not come at all this is it.

3.0
2.0
POLI360
May 28, 2015

Boring lectures, but all you do is copy down notes that he puts on slides. Extremely simple. Does not take attendance, but you have to have the notes in order to do well on the tests. Easy A if you put in the studying time.

3.0
4.0
POLI201
Grade: B
Mar 24, 2016

I would not recommend taking Professor Darmofal for this class. You have to go to class to get the notes, which are so vague and terrible, and the whole class is only 3 exams but they are very hard, he doesn't give you any info or help on what to study, other than an inaccurate list of terms. Get the book!! only good thing is he gives extra credit

3.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2016

He reads straight from the powerpoints for lectures. If you take good notes and read the book you will be okay. He also gives a lot of extra credit although it's tough. Typically a few 3-5 page papers on video lectures will give you some extra points.

3.0
2.0
POLI2O1
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2016

His lectures for poli 201 were really long but he doesn't take attendance, only 3 tests including the final and most of the questions come from the lecture notes. Boring but easy class. he gives a lot of extra credit so its an easy A if you put a little effort in! i wouldn't buy the textbook, his lecture is basically word for word the chapters.

5.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
May 4, 2016

This class was great. He didn't take attendance, but you need to get his lecture notes so you need to go. His lectures are long, but super clear and if you just study the notes you'll make an A on his exams. There's three exams which are the only grades, and he gives lots of opportunities for extra credit. If you need to take 201, take him

3.0
1.0
POLI360
Grade: A+
Sep 5, 2016
Would take again

Easiest professor at USC. Literally just copy down the notes and regurgitate them on the 3 multiple choice tests. I think I maybe got 3 questions wrong ever in two semesters of Darmofal. If you don't pass this class you don't belong in college

Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
POLI201
Sep 20, 2016
Would take again

Amazing professor. Lectures are directly from the book so i've never used it. he is very intelligent and explains things with clarity. his only vice is that he is a bit inaccessible (has 3 TAs). overall great teacher and offers a ton of extra, just study hard for tests and you'll do fine.

Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 17, 2016
Would take again

This class is manageable if you take the time to study and prepare for the exams. Only 3 exams, but there is a TON of extra credit throughout the semester. If you just do the extra credit you'll be fine. Exams are only easy if you study, but all of the extra credit will save you. Take him!!

Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
Dec 2, 2016
Would take again

Gives easy notes. Gives extra credit papers which will help out your grade if you are willing to do the work. Relies on the textbook. His tests are all multiple choice. I would recommend his cclass.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
4.0
POLI201
Dec 6, 2016
Wouldn't take again

His lectures are boring but attendance isn't mandatory. Even though he gives a lot of extra credit opportunities, they are all 4 page papers based off and hour long youtube video. He only gives 2 tests and the final and you have to study a lot to be able to pass.

Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
3.0
POLI201
Dec 12, 2016
Wouldn't take again

His lengthy, boring lectures will leave you confused and with more questions about government than you had before you took the class. Gives only three exams, yet offers plenty of extra credit in papers and event attendance. If you attend every class and take notes, you will pass. However, you will not benefit from taking this professor.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2016
Would take again

His lectures are long and somewhat boring but manageable. He doesn't post his notes online, so if you skip, you've missed those notes completely. Content comes straight from the book. In my class, he ended up offering 24 points of extra credit to the OVERALL grade, which was awesome, however most are 3 page papers on 1+ hour video lectures.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A
Apr 22, 2017
Would take again

There are only 3 tests but if you show up to class and take notes the test comes directly from them. Lecture can be boring but all the notes are on a powerpoint so you just have to copy it down. In my class he offered over 20 points of extra credit to your final grade for watching a few hour long videos and writing a paper on them.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
Apr 27, 2017
Would take again

Doesn't put anything online so you have to go to class. However, I should've gotten a C in the class but I got an A from doing a ton of extra credit. I would literally only take this prof again for this reason alone.

Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
1.0
POLI201
Grade: A
May 10, 2017
Would take again

This was an easy online class and Prof Darmofal was helpful. I had something come up one week and wasn't able to take the exam in time but he reopened it up for me after I told him what happened. Offers enough extra credit to raise your final grade by 15 points. The online homework is annoying but exams are easy

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
POLI360
Apr 23, 2018
Would take again

Really nice guy. Dr. Darmofal basically gives slide show lectures the whole class. Take good notes, study them verbatim, and you will probably get an A. You're graded on 3 exams, all scantron. Don't have to show up for class but I highly recommend it considering most everything on the test is from the notes. Don't be lazy and it's an easier class.

Clear grading criteria
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
POLI201
Nov 12, 2018
Wouldn't take again

awful teacher

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: B
Nov 13, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This class is made up taking notes from powerpoints in lecture, extra credit papers on YouTube videos (average 1 hour +), and 3 tests. To get a good grade you just have to know the material which you can learn from the book and do the extra credit.

TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
Nov 15, 2018
Would take again

This class is purely a lecture class but the tests are straight from the notes. Professor is fairly boring but take notes and study them for an hour or two before the exam and it's an easy A. Also offered 19 points of extra credit to our final grade so no excuse at all to not get an A.

EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
1.0
POLI360
Grade: A
May 7, 2019
Would take again

The class is boring and the lectures dry but if you want an easy A for the american politics credit for the major, just show up and you'll pass no problem. Hes a pretty interesting guy but the lectures are just really dry

Graded by few things
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
POLI360
Grade: A
May 7, 2019
Would take again

There are only two exams and a final that are taken directly from the notes, so you need to show up to get them because he doesn't post them online. He gives study guides before each exam which are pretty helpful. Don't bother buying the textbook.

Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: A
Apr 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

You will do fine if you show up to class. He doesn't take attendance and the class is pure lecture and can get extremely boring. 2 exams 30% each and a final which is 40% of your grade. However he gives soooo many extra credit opportunities that you should easily get an A. Just take notes and study because the questions come directly from the notes

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
May 7, 2020
Would take again

Darmofal's class wan't hard at all and he gave multiple extra credit opportunities. He doesn't post his PowerPoints online so going to class is the only way to get the notes. The TA is the main point of contact for this class but the professor is always available and responds quickly. Your whole grade are just three exams but they are doable.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
POLI360
Apr 16, 2021
Would take again

I took this course as an asynchronous course so it wasn't anything special. The only grades were 3 exams which were okay (you definitely need to study). He only gave out PowerPoints and he randomly posted them throughout the week.

1.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: C
Apr 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

DO NOT TAKE!! Rude, unorganized, not helpful, should not be a prof. Do yourself a favor and take a different class.

1.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: D
Jun 8, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Terrible class structure and prof. He was very rude, did not help or teach anything. Waste of time and money.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: A
Oct 19, 2021
Would take again

SInce Covid is a thing the lecture notes were posted online and since attendance isn't mandatory you could get away with not going but if he decides not to post them as years to come then you have to attend the lectures in order to get the notes. No homework just 3 exams. He includes a study guide. Nice professor easy class.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
2.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: B+
Oct 21, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Heavy lectures. Attendance is not mandatory but he does not post notes online. He gives out extra credit assignments and we only have 3 exams so they count by a lot. He is a basic teacher that will never know your name. He is nice though

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
Nov 30, 2021
Would take again

Professor Darmofal is a good professor. He will move on quickly unless you ask questions but he will answer questions. You want to go to class. He does not post the powerpoint. Tests are multiple choice, but not easy. Heavy note taking. Good guy. Extra credit at the end of the semester. But it is not easy.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 7, 2021
Wouldn't take again

VERY content heavy boring lectures. Your grade consists of only 3 exams the final counting for 40% of your entire grade. It's not that the content is hard, it is just a lot of content. Extra credit is 3-5 page essays from over 2 hour online videos. Would not recommend.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: B+
Dec 8, 2021
Wouldn't take again

His class is just lectures. Very boring and waste of time. Choose another professor if you want to actually enjoy learning. 3 exams, no homework, and extra credit worth 5 points to your final grade. Exams have hardly anything to do with the study guide he gives you.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
1.0
1.0
POLI201
Dec 8, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Prof. Darmofal's lectures are dull and not meaningful. He reads word for word from the lecture slides. Your grade only consists of three exams, with the final weighted heavily. If you are interested in this taking this course, please select another professor as you will learn nothing from him. Overall this course was a waste of time and money.

Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
3.0
POLI360
Grade: B-
Dec 10, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Prof. Darmofal's lectures are so dry and dull. Only 3 tests and 1 extra credit assignment. At first, he put all his slides on BB, and tests were online. At midterm time, he changed the class, and you had to come to get notes, didn't post slides on BB anymore, and tests were in person. You'll pass if you get all the notes. Don't buy book.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: B+
Dec 23, 2021
Would take again

Professor Darmofal is very nice. He knows a lot about politics, but I'm not sure he is very passionate about teaching. All you will do is sit through a very boring lecture, take notes, and study for one of the three tests of the semester. Maybe it's because I didn't have the book, but the notes never covered everything on the test.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
4.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 13, 2022

2 Midterms and a Final with no Homework or attendance. However, lecture notes are not posted online so I recommend getting someone to share notes with to not sit through the most boring lecture I have ever sat in every class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
2.0
3.0
POLI360
Grade: B+
Apr 14, 2022

His lectures are just read off from a PowerPoint, and just not very engaging. He is INCREDIBLY smart and has memorized so much information. Smart man.

Test heavy
1.0
5.0
POLI201
Grade: D+
Apr 20, 2022

Awful. Lectures are long and so boring. Useless information and the tests are very hard even if you study. Extra credit is 2 hour long videos and writing papers. No other homework given which you think would be nice until you realize theres only 3 tests and your grade entirely depends on that. If you want to save yourself a headache DO NOT TAKE HIM

Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
POL360
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2022

He is vary smart but by far the most boring course I've ever taken... and I love politics/political science. Every class was just long lectures directly from a plain powerpoint that was not posted online. Not an engaging lecturer. All grades are from 3 tests and one extra credit paper. If you aren't interested or familiar with politics, stay away!

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A
May 2, 2022

Textbook isn't necessary since you only need to study the lectures notes from class. Lectures are only in person so attendance is important to get the notes. Study guides are given out before the exam and display what is on the exam. Only 3 exams and some extra credit for your grade. Personally the class is very boring but wasn't that difficult.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
POLI360
Grade: B
May 3, 2022

Smart guy but this class is one of, if not THE most boring class I've ever taken. Lectures are very long and very boring. Reads directly from powerpoints that are plain black and white text, that are also not posted online. Your grade is entirely determined by 3 tests and extra credit if you choose to do it. Don't take if you don't have to.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: A
Jul 25, 2022
Would take again

The class was very laid back. There were 3 extra credit assignments for 5% each of your final grade (15% of your total grade). Tests questions were very similar to the powerpoint lectures, if not the exact same. He was very willing to meet outside of class to help discuss the material. An overall great professor, but the class did drag a little.

EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
Apr 3, 2023
Would take again

Although lectures are boring, the material is just like AP Gov if you took that. It is SO easy as long as you take notes, come to class, & study for exams. He offers extra credit that raises your grade a LOT. It's not the most exciting class, but it is so easy. I think people are giving him a hard time. I'd take again only because of how easy it is

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: B+
Apr 13, 2023

Really nice professor, but the class is just him reading off a powerpoint presentation for an hour. He also offers extra credit opportunities and the tests are straightforwards and from the notes. There is a textbook for this class, but you do not really need it (I didn't buy the textbook)

2.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: A+
Apr 14, 2023

Professor Darmofal is a very sweet guy, but his class is terribly boring. He literally reads off the slideshow and doesn't post the notes, which forces you to come to class. There are some very generous extra credits but other than that your entire grade is based on three big exams, which are much harder than they need to be. Wouldn't take again.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B
Apr 17, 2023
Would take again

The class is boring unless you are really interested in politics, but professor Darmofal is very nice and does offer 2 to 3 extra credit assignments in the semester. Your entire grade is based on 3 exams and he does not post the lecture slides so if you should definitely go to class or know someone who goes to class.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 17, 2023

Professor Darmofal seems like an ok guy, he knows a ton about Political Science but reads verbatim off of the slideshow which is incredibly boring and incredibly hard to learn from. He is so boring and the material of the class itself is also ungodly boring and uninteresting. I would avoid this class at all costs. There are 3 exams and that's it.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: B+
Apr 18, 2023

If you dont go to class you won't pass, lectures are very very boring.Your only graded on a few things but you have a couple extra credit opportunities.

Test heavy
4.0
1.0
POLI463
Grade: A
Apr 21, 2023
Would take again

Professor Darmofal is extremely nice and he does offer several extra credit opportunities. His lectures are a little dual, but he's an easy professor and very knowledgable on class material.

2.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B-
Apr 27, 2023

Lectures are often very boring but he gives you more than enough time to take notes. Textbook was recommend but is certainly not required. He offers long extra credit assignments as the whole class is graded on 3 tests. Pretty standard 250+ person lecture class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: B+
May 5, 2023

The most boring class ever. He only reads off a slide deck and does nothing to make the class interesting. We're graded on 3 exams and a few extra credit assignments (which are pretty dense). Attendance isn't mandatory, but he doesn't post his powerpoint's on BB. Overall, I would've rather watched paint dry for an hour and fifteen minutes.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
1.0
POLI463
Grade: A
May 5, 2023
Would take again

Prof Darmofal's class was the easiest poly sci class I've ever had. The lectures were= just writing down what the slides say. The exams were really easy. I appreciated the class because I am graduating and didn't want a large workload, but would have liked a more focused and assessed class if I were a few years younger.

1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 7, 2023

I took notes in class which he very quickly flipped through & I struggled to keep up in class. your grade is completely based off of 4 exams & the final is mandatory. If you do bad on one test you are screwed. oh and if you get on your phone in class he will call you out in front of the 300 person lecture. do NOT take him if at all possible.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
POLI463
Grade: A+
May 30, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Darmofal gave very clear grading guidelines; 3 exams, a presentation (graded on completion), and participation. Attendance wasn't mandatory, and you got participation for simply showing up most of the time and being engaged with presentations. Gave extra credit worth 10 points to your overall grade. Exams were easy and based directly on notes.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
POL201
Grade: A-
Oct 26, 2023

THE WORST EVER!!!! so boring and i wanted to drop out every single time i went to class. pleasseeeee never take this class for your sake. thank you!

EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: B+
Nov 2, 2023

By far one of the most boring professors and classes I have ever taken. Attendance is not mandatory but he doesn't post the slides so you basically have to go to class to do well on exams. Exams are very long and come straight from lectures. He reads straight off the slides and does not add any insight to the slides/lectures.

Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2023

Darmofal seems like a nice man, but his lectures are very boring and he only gives three tests. He also doesn't take attendance but doesn't post the notes for lectures so it's your responsibility to get the notes you missed from class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B
Dec 12, 2023

This class was solely based on 3 exams which seems unfair to me. Attendance is not mandatory but it might as well be if you would like to pass. He does not post the notes online. This lecture hall is huge but this professor will go out of his way to yell at students to get off of their phone, even if they are done taking notes for a slide.

Graded by few things
4.0
1.0
POL201
Grade: A+
Dec 14, 2023
Would take again

Boring as hell but anyone who gets below an A or B in his class simply did not put in the minimal effort. 3 exams determine your grade, but if you go to class and skim the textbook you will get at least a B. He gave us 4 opportunities to get extra credit and if you take advantage of them you get 17 points added to your FINAL grade.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B-
Dec 19, 2023

whole class is based off of 3 exams and if you don't go to lecture you will be lost. lectures are boring and he just reads the slides without really explaining them. if you take this class DO THE EXTRA CREDIT. each one is worth 5 points towards your final grade and brought me up from a D to a B

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
POLI2O1
Dec 21, 2023

One of the worst courses I have taken at the university. He does not post any materials besides study guides and the syllabus. He does offer extra credit throughout the semester (because you'll need it). Your whole grade is based on 3 exams throughout the semester which are terrible and the study guides don't help. Take another professor!

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 12, 2024

You have to show up for class, notes are not available online. DO NOT take if you need a Carolina core, it is a class for mainly poly sci majors/minors. He is boring and lectures go the whole time. Passionate about poly sci but do not understand attendance and only grades are the 4 exams throughout the semester.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 25, 2024

PLEASE TAKE A DIFFERENT TEACHER!!!! His lectures were very boring and a snooze-fest. Most of the class barely showed up because of it. Would read off the slides and has a monotone voice. Only good thing was the extra credit but even those were about watching an hour-long video and writing about it...videos were just like the class, boring.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B
Apr 25, 2024

His lectures are SO BORING. He doesn't really add anything he just reads off of the slides yet refuses to post them online. He wasn't the worst professor ever but definitely isn't good by any means.

EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
2.0
POLI201
Grade: A
Apr 26, 2024

The main flaw with this class is that none of the material is posted online, essentially requiring that you attend every lecture. While it's clear the professor is really passionate about political science and I learned a lot, it felt like a chore to attend the lectures. There are also only 3 exams for the semester and some extra credit options.

Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 28, 2024

He is not good. He puts you to sleep and all he does is lecture. You have 3 tests the entire semester and that is it. Do not take him.

Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B+
May 2, 2024
Would take again

me and my girlfriend love this guy! he was so nice to us and treated us better than any other professor has in our first year. darmofal is a very nice guy, with a passion for the subject!

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Accessible outside class
3.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: A+
May 3, 2024
Would take again

Really not a difficult class. He gives study guides, and it's given a week in advance. A lot of the material on study guides are on tests, but also helps to read some of textbook and notes. He also offers around 15-17 extra credit points that go towards your overall grade. Easy class, just can be boring. Easy A if you actually try.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
POLI201
Grade: A
May 12, 2024

Very straight forward class --long lectures with notes on slides. He is rather boring to listen to, but gives you enough time to write the notes. Gave a lot of extra credit and study guides that saved by grade. Average difficulty course topics, just make sure you attend the non-mandatory lectures and STUDY.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
POL201
Grade: A
Jul 29, 2024
Would take again

He was a great professor, take him for a founding doc class, and take it online. The only complain I have is that I was not able to see my grade in that class ever. I knew what I got after he put the grade in self serve Carolina.

Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
1.0
POL201
Grade: A
Oct 22, 2024

It is relatively a straightforward class. The professor is a nice guy but he does not post notes and isn't super clear on test date reminders. Class takes a little bit of self accountability, but it isn't hard.

Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 18, 2024
Would take again

Prof. Darmofal is a nice guy, however is classes are very lecture heavy. To do well in the class you really have to really read the textbook and study the notes from class. He doesn't post the notes so it is important to go to the lectures, no matter how boring they may be. The study guide helps a lot for the tests. Grade is made up of 3 tests

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
4.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 19, 2024
Would take again

Super sweet guy who knows the content well and explains well but can be hard to hear in big classes. Your grade is based on 3 tests in total, but you can get extra credit points that go to your overall grade (I have earned 10 points so far). Notes aren't posted so you have to be in class for them, but attendance isn't taken

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
POL201
Dec 3, 2024

There is no homework, the class is an entire lecture and he just reads off the slides. The lectures are so boring and long, and he talks so quietly you can't even hear him. He won't post the notes online but attendance is not mandatory. There is so much extra credit and it isn't that hard.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 5, 2024

He only uses 3 tests the whole semester for your final grade. They are multiple choice questions and he gives you a study guide in advance. If you can't make it to class don't take his course. You have to take all the notes he reads from the slide which can be 30-40 pages per test. He does give extra credit which helps your grade A LOT. DO THEM.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: D+
Dec 10, 2024

Only has two exams and a final. Attendance isn't mandatory for class but you need to go to understand the work as he refuses to post the notes. He only reads directly off the slides and adds nothing. Class is a huge lecture hall and he talks so quietly and does not have a mic so you cannot even hear him half of the time.

2.0
5.0
POLI2O1
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 11, 2024

You are only graded on three things the whole semester: two tests and the final. He likes to talk when you are still typing your notes so you never catch what he's actually saying. The only good thing is he gives extra credit that can move you up a whole letter grade, maybe 2.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2024

I honestly think if you put in a bit of effort, it's easy to get an A in this class. Your grade depends on 3 exams, BUT he has a ton of extra credit opportunity's and if you just take a bit of time to do them, they're sooo helpful. I ended with a 98, but if I didn't do the extra credit I would have ended with an 80.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B+
Dec 15, 2024

DO NOT TAKE HIM! There are other professors who are more willing to help and have a better attitude towards teaching/students. Darmofal hardly shows up to teach, passes off work to his (rude) TA's, only gives 3 tests (including the final) but decent extra credit. Save your breath and find someone else. Class is a waste of time/poorly taught/boring.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: A-
Dec 17, 2024

Probably the most boring professor I've ever had. Could barely even hear him when I was trying to pay attention. Doesn't post notes, no homework. Only exams. About a quarter of my class dropped after the second exam. Take a different prof if you can but I guess he's alright if you study and take notes.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: B+
Dec 20, 2024

DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR! The only grades for the class are two exams and the final. He just reads off slides and talks while you are trying to copy the slide. He hands off work to his TAs. Attendance is not mandatory but you will miss all the slides and he does not post them. Him and the TA's are very rude in emails and do not help.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: A
Jan 6, 2025
Would take again

This class isn't for people who want to not study and still pass. All the materials are straight out of the book, but he puts the slides up in class and gives plenty of time to take notes. He is also quick to respond to emails and very kind if you have questions in class. Tests aren't bad. Just don't be lazy, and you'll be fine.

EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: A
Jan 8, 2025

He was a fine professor but the subject is boring. I took it bc it counts for multiple req. Only 3 tests but he does give big extra credit opportunities that I would definitely do. He gives plenty of time to write down the notes but everything comes straight from the powerpoints that he does not post. Attendance not mandatory but would go to pass.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
POL360
Grade: A
Apr 16, 2025
Would take again

He does not care about attendance but if you want the lecture content you have to attend. Slightly boring but that mostly because the content isn't very entertaining. LOTS of reading. Most of the exam content is from the reading, if you don't read you're gonna struggle. But if you read/study you'll honestly be fine

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
3.0
2.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 16, 2025

3 exams and extra credit are the only grades. His lectures are very boring as someone who actually takes interest in politics. Probably wouldn't be as boring if he had a microphone I genuinely just cannot hear him most of the time.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: C
Apr 29, 2025

the whole class is based on 3 tests. yes, he gives extra credit but its watching an hour and a half long speech on youtube and then writing a 3 page essay on the information in the video. you have to go to lectures to do good in the class but the lectures are boring and very slow. the exams are only based off of the notes you get from the lectures.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 30, 2025

Do not take this professor, you'll regret it. You are only graded by three exams. He does offer extra credit which can bump up your grade like 15 percentage points but they are literally five page papers you have to write on an hour long video. The TA's are actually no help at all and are so rude because they think they know everything.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B+
May 1, 2025

Honestly I feel bad for Darmofal, because he is really nice, but this class was so boring. attendance is not mandatory, I started going to class, but the lectures were so boring. Your only graded with the 4 exams. no other assignment or homework. DO THE EXTRA CREDIT. This saved my grade. If you're good in history this class will be good for you.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
POLI360
Grade: A+
May 5, 2025
Would take again

Professor Darmofal is such a down-to-earth professor, and I highly recommend him. I honestly don't see how so many people give him low reviews. Exams are very straightforward. Copy his slideshow notes, study them thoroughly, and you'll be just fine! He offers multiple extra credit opportunities throughout the semester to help boost your grade.

Caring
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
POLI201
Grade: A
May 20, 2025
Would take again

the tests are hard but if you go to class and take the notes and do some studying you will be fine. Gave 15 points of extra credit

Test heavy
1.0
5.0
POL201
Grade: C
May 29, 2025

would not recommend

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: B
Jun 24, 2025

Your final grade is only made up of the two exams and the final which leaves little room for error if you do badly on one exam. attendance is not mandatory but if you don't go you won't have any way of knowing what was talked about in class. Although if you do go to class you will be bored.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
POLI201
Grade: C
Oct 22, 2025

avoid at all costs. you will be forced to copy 1500 words a class from his slides and graded by 2 exams and a final. there is so much material to cover and he doesn't give any help. the extra credit he gives is worth 5% but you need to watch an hour long video and do a 5 page essay. the material he says is on the exam is in fact not on the exam.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: B
Dec 1, 2025

Ur grade is gonna be 3 tests. 3 hard tests. He does give extra credit so I reccomend u do it. He is an adorable sweet old man but his lectures r so boring and he reads right off of the slides. I genuinely fell asleep. run. do not take.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: B-
Dec 2, 2025

Only three grades the entire year, being exams. YOU HAVE TO STUDY. He reads straight from the slides and doesn't give extra information. You need to make your own content to actually understand what he is teaching, or you will have no idea what you're doing. If you have the option to take a different professor, please do so.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: A-
Dec 2, 2025

Teaches strictly from PowerPoint. Only grades are 3 tests, but does give 15 points of extra credit.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
POL201
Grade: A-
Dec 3, 2025

The only thing I had learn is this class was check rate my professor before registering for this class. Every class you take at least 4 pages of notes. The study guides do not help the 3 exams you take that is the majority of your grade. There are extra credit assignments but they are long papers.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: A-
Dec 4, 2025

Class isn't hard if you put in effort. He's a sweet guy, but lectures are super boring; he just reads off slides. I barely went and still did well by making Quizlets from the study guides. Only 3 exams and up to 15% extra credit on your final grade. Easy class if you can teach yourself, not great if you need engaging lectures.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 4, 2025

This class was so boring I alternated with someone else every class period and still managed to be miserable the entire time. You are graded by three tests but he does offer up to 15 extra credit points. His lectures are dragged and boring. There is definitely a better professor for this class.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
POL201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 5, 2025

Reads from his slides the entire class, which are basically quoted from the textbook, and so so boring. He doesn't post them on blackboard. Grade is made up of 3 hard tests that require a lot of studying. I had to teach myself the content. Only the TAs have office hours, he doesn't. A lot of people are almost failing the class, would not recommend.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
POL201
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 8, 2025

He's not an effective instructor. He mainly reads directly from the slides, and he doesn't hold his own office hours only the TAs do. The course is based on three exams: the first two are each worth 40% of your grade, and the final is worth 20%. Overall, the class experience is pretty poor.

Get ready to read
1.0
5.0
POL201
Grade: B
Dec 8, 2025

Worst professor I've ever had. Sat in the front of the class and read directly from the slides and would pause for a couple of minutes for people to write down the slides word for word. Nobody is learning that way. Doesn't seem like he should be teaching any subject if this is how enthusiastic he is about life.

5.0
1.0
POL201
Grade: A+
Dec 9, 2025
Would take again

Professor Darmofal is a very kind, caring man. I do not understand the critiques about his lectures, as every other lecture based class operates the exact same way. No homework, 15 points of total score extra credit available, it's not hard to succeed. He is so much better than what they say. Lowkey is just high school government class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
POLI201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2025

Professor Darmofal is a very kind and caring person, but he is simply a lecturer. He mainly just reads from the slides and will add a little bit of extra info while giving time to write notes. You will need to read the textbook, come to the lectures, and study a bunch. 15% of extra credit possible on your grade. Tedious but easy to do.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
1.0
POLI201
Grade: A+
Dec 11, 2025

The most boring professor ever. He doesnt take attendance but he also doesnt post the slideshows with the notes, however, he does post a study guide, so halfway through the semester I stopped going to class and just used the study guide to study for the test and did great. Would not recommend though.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
POLI201
Grade: D
Dec 16, 2025

Does not respond to emails. Little to no help at all.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
POLI201
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 16, 2025

Took this class for founding documents credit, ended up having to Withdrawal because I wasn't going to pass. I have always been a A+ student and this by far was the hardest class for me. If you don't do well in long lectures, this is NOT the class for you. The only grades you receive in the class are from 3 tests and there is no room for error.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

9%

Textbook Required

13%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 77 grades
Most common grades:
A (23)
A+ (15)
Not sure yet (15)
Grade Distribution
A(38)B(14)C(4)D(8)F(0)A-/B+(17)
Based on 96 reported grades
A: 23
A+: 15
Not sure yet: 15
B+: 12
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (51)
Lecture heavy (51)
Graded by few things (47)
Test heavy (37)
Get ready to read (9)
Clear grading criteria (6)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
Skip class? You won't pass. (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-1.36 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

POLI502

4.5

(2)

POLI105

4.0

(1)

POLI463

4.0

(4)

POLI360

3.4

(14)

POL360

3.3

(3)
+3 more courses
Difficulty by Course

POLI502

5.0

POLI2O1

3.7

POL201

3.3

POLI201

2.9

POL360

2.7

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