Political Science, A.B.

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Major Requirements

The departmental courses are organized into four groups that represent the major subdivisions within political science as recognized by the American Political Science Association: American Government, Comparative Politics, International Politics and Foreign Policy, and Political Theory. Majors will complete a minimum of ten courses, including the CUE: Senior Capstone Seminar. Additionally, at least one writing intensive course in political science is required for majors.

Required Courses:

PSC 101 - Introduction to American National Government 1 course unit
PSC 103 - Introduction to Comparative Politics & International Relations 1 course unit
PSC 201 - Political Ideologies 1 course unit
PSC 301 - Political Science Research Methods 1 course unit
PSC 490 - CUE: Senior Capstone Seminar 1 course unit

Five advanced courses; two numbered 300 or greater:

Five advanced courses with at least two at the 300 level or higher and at least one from three of the following areas:

American Government and Political Processes
Comparative Politics
International Politics and Foreign Policy
Political Theory

Note:

Introductory courses, Political Ideologies, and Research Methods should normally be completed by the end of the sophomore year. Majors must maintain at least a 2.00 grade point average in political science courses to remain in good standing in the department. No more than one political science internship and no more than two courses taken outside the department will count toward the political science major. PSC 960 - Political Science Internship will count as a 200 level course. Selected courses in philosophy, sociology, economics, and history are recommended for majors. Foreign language competency is strongly recommended.

Majors are urged to participate in the Washington Semester, study abroad programs, service learning and community-based research experiences, internship, and opportunities with the Muhlenberg Institute of Public Opinion. All majors are eligible for internship programs in local, state, and national governments as well as in appropriate nongovernmental organizations. Consult with faculty in the department to discuss internship opportunities.