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Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Degree awarded: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

A major in Political Science offers an opportunity for the systematic examination of political institutions and processes as a specialization within an arts and sciences degree. Courses are offered in the following areas of study: (1) political theory, behavior, and philosophy, (2) American political institutions and processes, (3) foreign and international political institutions and processes, and (4) public policy and administration. Special features of the program include opportunities for field research, internships in government agencies, and a senior seminar for all political science majors. Majors in political science are required to meet all of the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree, as described in the IU Northwest Bulletin and in Arts and Sciences web pages.

Required Courses (in addition to meeting all other requirements for the arts and sciences degree):

• Y103 Introduction to American Politics, and 27 additional credit hours in Political Science
• Y218 Comparative Politics: Europe and Canada
• Y219 Introduction to International Relations
• Y301 Political Parties and Interest Groups
• Y304 American Constitutional Law I
• Y318 The American Presidency
• Y319 The United States Congress
• Y381 History of Political Theory I
• Y382 History of Political Theory II

And, one of the following:

• Y302 Public Bureaucracy in Modern Society
• Y306 State Politics in the United States
• Y316 Public Opinion and Political Participation
• Y360 United States Foreign Policy
• Y362 International Politics of Selected Regions
• Y366 Current Foreign Policy Problems
• Y392 Problems of Contemporary Political Philosophy
• Y401 Studies in Political Science

Political science graduates are able to enter the public service by taking advantage of government internships and professional training programs. A degree in political science provides excellent preparation for specialized graduate degree programs, including the Master of Public Affairs, and for Law School. Finally, the study of political science prepares students for responsible roles as citizens in the increasingly complex political systems of the contemporary world.

For further information about this degree, please contact Professor by phone at 980-6840 or by fax at 980-6737.