Political Science: BA

Program Outcomes

1. Students will gain substantive knowledge of the concepts and theories of political science and its major subfields.
   SLO 1 - Identify, compare and contrast different political systems.
   SLO 2 - Analyze and explain political behavior, cultures, institutions and processes using prominent theories and frameworks.
   SLO 3 - Demonstrate an understanding of the structure and processes of the international system.
   SLO 4 - Understand the complex interrelationships between political, economic, social, cultural, and historical forces at the local, national and global levels.
   SLO 5 - Apply political science knowledge to contemporary global issues and problems to identify alternative solutions. 
    
2. Students will develop critical thinking and effective communications skills.
   SLO 6 - Develop logical and persuasive arguments political phenomena and communicate these arguments clearly and effectively in written and oral format.
   SLO 7 - Critically evaluate political claims based on careful scrutiny of the underlying argument and evidence.
   SLO 8 - Consider different sides of an issue and evaluate the basic assumptions of each side. 
    
3. Students will acquire research skills necessary to ask and answer basic political questions.
   SLO 9 - Formulate research questions, and generate hypotheses based on political science theories and frameworks.
   SLO 10 - Understand the differences between qualitative, quantitative and mixed methodologies and be able to identify the appropriate methodology for a given research question.
   SLO 11 - Be able to design and conduct a basic research project.
   SLO 12 - Demonstrate research skills necessary to write a paper in the discipline of political science.
   SLO 13 - Identity and gather information from credible primary and secondary sources and cite them appropriately.
   SLO 14 - Be able to complete independent research projects in political science, particularly via the capstone senior project. 
    
4. Students will develop competencies in multicultural diversity and global issues.
   SLO 15 - Demonstrate an understanding of and respect for diverse cultures, multiple worldviews and experiences.
   SLO 16 - Develop knowledge, attitudes, and skills to communicate effectively in intercultural settings.
   SLO 17 - Evaluate one’s own culture within a global and comparative context.
   SLO 18 - Understand the dynamic nature of globalization and its impact at the local and global levels. 
    
5. Students will engage in political and civic activities at the community, national and international levels.
   SLO 19 - Apply theories, concepts and methods learned in the classroom to real-world settings through internships and community service projects.
   SLO 20 - Develop a better understanding of some of the pressing local, national and global challenges.

Training Model

Students will complete professional development and professional practicum courses in their senior year. Students will work closely with the instructor to secure an internship in a timely fashion. Students can choose international practicum if they want a practical experience outside of the US. Professional practicum and international practicum both require the completion of 120 hours of work in a community organization, a corporation or an international organization. Students will submit an internship report to their instructor and the program coordinator at the end of their internship to get credit for the professional practice course.

Specialized Admissions Requirements

Minimum 2.0 GPA required for admission to the program.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

Completion of 120 units, consisting of 60 lower division requirements and 60 upper division requirements.

Curriculum Plan

Courses are 3 units unless indicated otherwise.