Political Science, B.A.

Political Science Mission Statement

Political science is devoted to the study of the theory and practice of government and politics. The political science program complements a student’s liberal arts education with an emphasis on understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of political philosophy, public administration, law, international relations, and American government and policy. Vocational alternatives for political science majors include teaching, public management, law, and foreign service.

General Education Core

See General Education

Core Course Requirements 16-17 credits
Knowledge Areas Requirements 16 credits

University Requirements

Experiential Education (3 Credits)

UNIV 1010 - EDGE Program Introduction 1 credits
UNIV 3925 - EDGE Project Proposal: [Engagement Center] 1 credits
UNIV 4925 - EDGE Program Completion: [Engagement Center] 1 credits

Degree Requirements (16 Credits)

BA Degree - Foreign Language Requirement (16 credits or proficiency test)

Political Science Curriculum Summary

Core Requirements (36 credits)

Political Science is a designated major. No grade below a “C-” will be accepted for credit toward the major. No more than 12 credits of lower division political science courses may be counted toward the credits requirement for the major.

POLS 1100 - American National Government 3 credits
POLS 2300 - Introduction to Political Thought 3 credits
POLS 4990 - Seminar in Political Science 3 credits
Other POLS Electives 24 credits

One of the following:

POLS 2100 - Introduction to International Relations 3 credits
POLS 2200 - Introduction to Comparative Politics 3 credits

Other Electives

Free Electives (B.A./B.S. requirement, plus recommended free electives. See Department for recommendation.)