Political Science, B.A.

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Four options are offered in the Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, each adapted to a different objective as described below. The options contain the same common core of foundation courses designed to provide students with a general background in the discipline of political science as well as knowledge essential for attaining a high level of civic literacy.
The General Political Science option is a general program of undergraduate preparation for graduate study that allows students to choose their own upper division courses to prepare for professions in both the public and private sectors.
The Global Politics option is a program of undergraduate preparation for graduate study that focuses on the changing nature of international politics and the emergence of a global political space.

The Prelegal Studies option provides undergraduate preparation for professions in law, education, and public service. While a strong emphasis is placed on developing skills of legal analysis and research, courses in this option also provide students with a critical understanding of the interrelationship between law and politics in American society.

The Public Administration option provides undergraduate preparation for career government service or positions in nonprofit organizations.

The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science is 180 units, of which 65 units are in the major. Consult with an advisor for the specific number of units required in all areas of the degree including GE and free electives.

Requirements for the Major (65 units)

Major requirements consist of a common core of two lower division and six upper division courses (33 units) to be taken by all political science majors, and eight elective courses (32 units) in a selected political science option. It is recommended that 200- and 300-level requirements are completed prior to enrolling in 400 level courses.

Core Requirements (33 units)

Options (32 units)

The following courses are required in addition to the core:

General Political Science Option (32 units)

Eight elective courses in political science, one of which may be at lower division level, with the approval of an adviser.

Global Politics Option (32 units)

Select one course from each of the following four areas (16 units):

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Political Science, B.A.

Requirements for the Major (65 units)

Core Requirements (33 units)

Options (32 units)

General Political Science Option (32 units)

Global Politics Option (32 units)

1. International Relations (4 units)

2. Globalization and North America (4 units)

3. Regional Politics: Asia (4 units)

4. Regional Politics: Other (4 units)

Select four elective courses in Political Science, one of which may be taken at lower division level (16 units).

Prelegal Studies Option (32 units)

Required Courses (8 units)

Select two courses from the following (8 units):

Select four elective courses in Political Science, one of which may be taken at lower division level (16 units).

Public Administration Option (32 units)

Required Courses (8 units)

Select two courses from the following (8 units):

Select four elective courses in political science, one of which may be taken at lower division level (16 units).