Political Science B.A.

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Program Director: Bret Kincaid, Ph.D.

Overview

The political science major provides students with an increased understanding of the political world—both inside and outside of the United States. It does so through a program of study that introduces them to the discipline of political science, engages them in political analysis and enables them to develop a critical understanding of politics and its place in human society. The exploration of things political is rigorously engaged in and informed by a Christian/Anabaptist worldview. Upon completion of the major, students will be prepared to pursue advanced study or a career for which political science is an appropriate background, and to provide service to society reflective of the values expressed in the Fresno Pacific Idea.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Recognize and describe the major issues and debates within the discipline of political science.
Explain the role and impact of governmental entities in contemporary state, national and international settings.
Communicate effectively and appropriately in both oral and written forms, especially through the use of critical analysis in articulation and support of political ideas.
Assess the design and impact of historical and/or contemporary policies.
Evaluate political phenomena in the light of religious and/or ethical values.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Pathways

BA Political Science

BA Political Science - ADT

Lower Division Major Prerequisites

ECON 101 - Principles of Microeconomics Credits 3 or
ECON 102 - Principles of Macroeconomics Credits 3
HIST 150 - American Civilization Credits 4
PHIL 100 - Introduction to Philosophy Credits 3
SOC 120 - Introduction to Sociology Credits 3

Required Courses (12 Courses, 37-40 Units)

Core Program (7 courses, 22 units)

PS 120 - American Politics and Society Credits 3
PS 390 - Religion and Politics in America Credits 4 *
PS 440 - Human Rights & International Law Credits 4
PS 476 - Internship Credits 3 *

Select three of the following:

PS 400 - Comparative Politics Credits 3
PS 420 - International Relations Credits 3
PS 340 - American Public Policy Credits: 3
PS 450 - History of Political Theory and Ideas Credits 3

Breadth Program (15 units minimum)*

Select a minimum of four of the following:

BUS 475 - Law and the Business Environment Credits 3
CRIM 375 - Criminal Justice in America Credits 4
FIN 452 - Public Finance Credits 3
PS 300 - California History and Politics Credits 4
PS 325 - Civil Rights and Liberties Credits: 3
PS 371 - American Law and Legal System Credits 3
PS 373 - Nature, Law and Policy Credits 3
PS 400 - Comparative Politics Credits 3
PS 411 - Modern Latin America: History, Politics And Culture Credits 3
PS 412 - Modern Africa: History, Politics and Culture Credits 3
PS 414 - Modern Asia: History, Politics and Culture Credits 3
PS 416 - Modern Middle East: History, Politics and Culture Credits 3
PS 420 - International Relations Credits 3
PS 425 - Global Economics and Sustainable Development Credits 3
PS 430 - US Foreign Policy: History and Contemporary Issues Credits 4
PS 435 - Energy, Economics and Ethics Credits 3
PS 450 - History of Political Theory and Ideas Credits 3
PS 365 - Model United Nations Credits 1
PS 483 - Project in Political Science Credits 1 - 3 (Recommended for graduate study.)
SOC 461 - Introduction to Social Science Research Credits 3 (Recommended for graduate study.)

*American Studies Program (15-16 Units)

The American Studies Program (CCCU) in Washington, D.C., may be taken in place of PS 390 , PS 476 and two breadth courses.