Department of Political Science
Bachelor’s in Political Science
Curriculum | View By Semester | Courses | New POLS Minors | Advising | Admissions
The Department of Political Science offers seven different minors for students outside of the department. Students must complete an application (link below) to declare one of the minors. Minor applications are reviewed weekly by the Office of Undergraduate Programs and Advising. An academic advisor will provide you with a response for your minor application.
Political Science – Legal Foundations (LFND)
Summary: Study the fundamental principles and concepts underlying legal systems, exploring constitutional law, jurisprudence, and legal frameworks to comprehend the role of law in shaping societal norms and governance.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 233
Choose one: POLS 229, 231, 203 or 233
Select from (choose two): POLS 353, 355, 358, 357, 461, 462
Political Science – Comparative Politics (CMPL)
Summary: Explore the diversity of political systems worldwide, examining governance structures, political behavior, and institutions across different nations to understand comparative political dynamics and their impact on global affairs.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 229
Choose: POLS 352, 358, 322, 424, 323, 325, 324, 432, 326, 312, 328, 475, 315, 365, 338, 367, 368
Political Science – American Politics & Policy (AMPP)
Summary: Examine the structures, processes, and institutions of the United States government, critically assessing public policies, political behavior, and the intersection of power dynamics in American society.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 233
Select from (choose two): COMM 302/JOUR 302, POLS 302, 304, 314, 315, 316, 319, 320, 340, 342, 355, 359, 375, 413, 435, 447, 475
Political Science – International Relations (INRL)
Summary: Investigate the complex interactions between nations, international organizations, and non-state actors, delving into diplomacy, conflict resolution, global governance, and the socio-political implications of globalization on a global scale.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 231
Select from (choose two): POLS 328, 439, 333, 335, 366, 338, 412, 420, 312, 447, 318
Political Science – Political Theory (PTHE)
Summary: Analyze foundational political ideas, ideologies, and philosophical frameworks shaping political thought and governance, studying the evolution of political theory and its application to contemporary societal challenges.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 203
Select from (choose two): POLS 352, 359, 362, 369, 364, 454, 455, 349, 350
Political Science – Political Data & Research (PDRS)
Summary: Gain proficiency in quantitative research methodologies, data collection, analysis, and interpretation to inform evidence-based political decision-making and policy analysis.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 308, 309
Select from (choose one): POLS 229, 231, 203, 233
Political Science – Race, Ethnic, & Gender Politics (REGP)
Summary: Investigate the intricate dynamics of race, ethnicity, and gender in politics, examining their impact on policies, representation, and socio-political movements.
Required: POLS 206, 209, 229 or 233
Select from (choose two): POLS 304, 312, 317, 320, 367, 462
