StudyQA — Bachelor: Political Science — California State University (Page 14)

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Description Contents Requirements

Political Science at California State University offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for active engagement in the civic and political life of their communities and the world. This program provides students with a solid foundation in understanding political systems, government institutions, political behavior, policy analysis, and international relations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, enabling graduates to navigate complex political landscapes and contribute meaningfully to public discourse and decision-making processes. Students explore a wide range of topics, including American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public administration. The program incorporates various methodologies such as case studies, research projects, and simulations that foster hands-on learning and real-world application. Faculty members are accomplished scholars and practitioners dedicated to mentoring students and cultivating an inclusive academic environment. Students have opportunities for internships, research, and participating in community engagement activities that enhance their understanding of political dynamics at local, national, and international levels. Upon completion of the degree, graduates are well-equipped for careers in government, public policy, non-profit organizations, journalism, international affairs, or advanced studies in law or graduate programs. The program aims to develop informed, responsible, and ethical leaders who can analyze political issues critically, advocate for effective solutions, and contribute to the democratic process in diverse settings. With a commitment to academic excellence and social justice, California State University's Political Science program prepares students not just for employment but for lifelong civic involvement and leadership in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Lower Division Requirements (9 Units):

POLS 102 Comparative Government (3)

POLS 103 Introduction to International Politics (3)

POLS 150 American Political Institutions (3)

Upper Division Requirements (16 Units):

POLS 300 Research Methods in Political Science (3)

POLS 301 Political Theory (3)

POLS 303 Statistical Applications in the Social Sciences (4) (SOC/PSY)

POLS 306 The Politics of Race and Ethnicity (3)

POLS 499 Capstone (3)

Political Science Electives (15 units)

Students should select a total of 15 units from the following list:

ESRM 328 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (3)

POLS 140 California Government and Politics (1)

POLS 305 Gender and Politics (3)

POLS 312 Interest Groups and Collective Action (3)

POLS 313 The United States Congress (3)

POLS 314 The American Presidency (3)

POLS 315 Congress and the Presidency (3)

POLS 316 State and Local politics and policy (3)

POLS 317 Judicial Power and Process (3)

POLS 318 Campaigns and Elections (3)

POLS 319 Political Behavior and Public Opinion (3)

POLS 320 Public Administration (3)

POLS 321 Public Budgeting (3) (FIN)

POLS 325 American Public Policy (3)

POLS 326 Government and Politics of Selected Nations (3)

POLS 327 International Relations of Selected Areas (3)

POLS 328 United States Foreign Policy (3)

POLS 329 International Law and Organizations (3)

POLS 330 Political Sociology (3) (SOC)

POLS 331 Narratives of the Working Class (3) (ENGL/ECON/HIST/SOC)

POLS 334 Peace Studies (3)

POLS 335 Politics and Film (3) (COMM)

POLS 340 Environmental Politics and Public Policy (3) (ESRM)

POLS 341 The National Park (3) (ESRM)

POLS 345 Science and Public Policy (3) (BIOL)

POLS 351 International Relations of Africa (3)

POLS 352 International Relations of Europe (3)

POLS 353 International Relations of Latin America (3)

POLS 354 International Relations of the Middle East (3)

POLS 355 International Relations of South Asia (3)

POLS 401 Constitutional Law (3)

POLS 402 Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (3)

POLS 403 Comparative Foreign Policy (3)

POLS 404 Policy Leadership (3) (EDUC)

POLS 426 Politics of Developing Countries (3)

POLS 430 Political Communication (3) (COMM)

POLS 431 Education Policy and Politics (3) (EDUC)

POLS 490 Special Topics in Political Science (3)

POLS 492 Service Learning In Political Science (3)

POLS 493 Internship in Political Science (3)

POLS 494 Independent Research In Political Science (1-3)

International Freshmen Checklist

International Transfer Checklist

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs.

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S. Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better. Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests). Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.