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2019-2020 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Political Science

Requirements for a Major in Political Science

Students seeking the B.A. or B.S. degree are required to take at least 36 credits in political science, including PLS 102, PLS 103, PLS 211, PLS 231 or PLS 232, PLS 495, and seven additional courses, two of which must be in American politics, and one in international relations, one in comparative politics, and one in political thought (200-level or higher). Please see a list of elective courses by category as follows. At least four of these courses must be at the 300 level; independent studies, internships, PLS 300, PLS 350, and PLS 495 do not count toward the 300-level requirement. A total of no more than nine credits of internship and independent study may count toward the major, with no more than six credits in either category. Public Administration (PA) 307 may count as an American politics elective.

Students seeking a B.A. degree must demonstrate third-semester proficiency in a foreign language. Students seeking a B.S. degree must complete the following courses: STA 215, PLS 300, and PLS 350. When taken for the B.S. degree, PLS 300 and PLS 350 do not count toward the 36 required credits for the major.

Political Science Required Courses

Additional Required Courses for the B.S. Degree

Additional Required Courses for the B.A. Degree

  • Third-semester proficiency in a foreign language

Political Science Elective Courses by Category

American Politics (take at least two courses)

International Relations (take at least one course)

Comparative Politics (take at least one course)

Political Thought (take at least one course at the 200- or 300-level)

Special Topics, Independent Study, Internship

Suggested Order of Coursework for a Major in Political Science

The flexibility in course selection makes it important for students to seek the advice of a faculty member in the department when choosing courses to fit their specific needs and interests. No sample curriculum will be appropriate for everyone, although these general guidelines should be helpful to nearly everyone. It is also assumed that some counseling will take place to match the curriculum with career plans. We strongly recommend study abroad and an internship. We also advise students to take elective courses in history, economics, and in other social science disciplines.

First Year

as these courses are good background for PLS 315 - International Political Economy (3 credits))

Second Year

Third Year

Fourth Year

Political Science Program Description

Political Science - Program Description



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