COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science requires a total of 45 units within the major as part of the 120 units needed for graduation. The program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, governance, and public policy at both domestic and international levels. It begins with 15 units of core courses, including introduction to politics, U.S. government, international relations, American political thought, and expository writing for the social sciences. These foundational courses help students develop critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills essential for studying political issues.Students then complete six units of senior seminars, which focus on advanced topics such as political theory, constitutional law, comparative politics, international relations, or government. These seminars emphasize research, discussion, and in-depth analysis of complex political topics. In addition, students must take one course (three units each) in four key subfields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. This ensures a well-rounded understanding of different political systems, global affairs, and theoretical perspectives.A significant component of the program is the 12-unit concentration, where students choose between General Political Science or Law and Politics. The General Political Science concentration includes one course in public law and additional upper-division political science electives, allowing for a broad exploration of the field. The Law and Politics concentration places greater emphasis on legal studies, requiring more coursework in public law topics such as constitutional law, civil rights, and judicial processes.Overall, the program combines core knowledge, specialized study, and flexibility through electives and concentrations. It prepares students for careers in government, law, public policy, international organizations, and related fields, as well as for graduate or professional studies in political science or law.