2013-14 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Dec 21, 2024  
2013-14 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Political Science [POL]


This major in the Political Science Department  examines the broad range of concerns surrounding people and the power of government; it provides a strong grounding in American government, comparative/international politics and political theory.

Political science majors are expected to complete a core curriculum covering the basics of U.S. and world politics, research techniques and political theory. In addition, students are expected to explore the different fields of political science through upper division course work. Finally, all students must complete a capstone course either through a seminar or internship experience.

Career Potential

  • State or federal legislative aide
  • Campaign manager
  • Local, state or federal elected representative
  • Journalist/reporter
  • Federal Agent

A. Required Courses: 12 credit hours


B. Other: 24 credit hours


Political Science Elective Courses: 18 credit hours


At least 15 credit hours of Political Science courses must be at the 300 level and above.

Capstone Experience Requirement - select one of the following:


Total Credit Hours Required for Graduation: 120


Example of the B.A. in Political Science over four years


This chart is simply a model and does not reflect the expectations for all political science programs.

First Year


Fall Total credit hours: 16-17


  • Foreign language 101
  • GE 1: Quantitative Skills (e.g. POL 112)

Spring Total credit hours: 15-16


  • Foreign language 102
  • POL elective/concentration
  • GE elective
  • GE elective

Second Year


Fall Total credit hours: 15


  • Foreign language 201
  • POL elective/concentration
  • GE elective
  • GE elective
  • GE elective

Spring Total credit hours: 18


  • Foreign language 202
  • GE elective
  • GE elective
  • POL elective/concentration
  • POL elective/concentration
  • Free elective/minor

Third Year


Fall Total credit hours: 15


  • POL elective/concentration
  • Free elective/minor
  • Free elective/minor
  • Free elective

Spring Total credit hours: 15


  • POL elective/concentration (WI)
  • POL elective/concentration
  • Free elective/minor
  • Free elective/minor
  • Free elective

Fourth Year


Fall Total credit hours: 15


  • POL elective/concentration
  • POL elective/concentration
  • Free elective/minor
  • Free elective
  • Free elective

Spring Total credit hours: 15


  • POL elective/concentration (WI)
  • POL elective/concentration
  • Free elective
  • Free elective
  • Free elective