B.A. in Political Science
University of Saint Joseph
Key Information
Campus location
West Hartford, USA
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
USD 21,025 / per semester **
Application deadline
Request info *
Earliest start date
Request info
* admission to USJ is made on a rolling basis; therefore, you can apply at any time and expect a decision approximately two weeks after the application is complete
** full-time
Scholarships
Explore scholarship opportunities to help fund your studies
Introduction
This innovative major offers a variety of prospects in high-demand fields and ways to understand our world, country, and community
As a Political Science major at USJ, you will pursue your passion for learning about the dynamics of complex local and global issues. The major appeals to a wide range of students, especially those interested in policy analysis, community advocacy, political activism, public administration, journalism, conventional and social entrepreneurship, and pre-law.
Students in this major can pursue many different goals with this course of study: preparation for work in fields related to activism, policy analysis, advocacy, government, and business employment; and preparation for programs of graduate study in the Social Sciences, Public or Business Administration; Public Policy; or Law, among others.
With a variety of internships and research opportunities, you have an opportunity to earn an undergraduate degree and decide on the career path that’s best for you.
Gallery
Curriculum
Advantages
Students majoring in Political Science will demonstrate in-depth knowledge of political systems, policies, and conflicts in various nations, including the United States, and between nations. Describe major historical contributions to theories of politics. Develop and apply critical thinking skills and, in a significant research project, demonstrate communication skills. Situate political events and political writings within their historical and cultural contexts.
Required Courses (30 credits)
The Political Science, B.A. requires a total of 30 credits. 4 core courses, 3 courses from the following categories; Theory, Comparative, International, and an additional 3 elective courses that will be selected from any POLS course offering or other advisor-approved courses.
Core (12 credits)
- POLS 110 - How Politics Affects Your Life: An Introduction to Politics 3 Credits
- POLS 125 - American Government 3 Credits
- POLS 485 - Internship 3-15 Credits
- POLS 499 - Coordinating Seminar 3 Credits
Comparative Course (must select one)
- POLS 200 - Special Topics in Political Science 3 Credits(the course must be designated as Comparative to count in this category)
- POLS 227 - Latin America and the Caribbean 3 Credits
- POLS 251 - China, Germany, and Russia since World War II 3 Credits
- POLS 345 - Comparative Government 3 Credits
- POLS 357 - Israel and Palestine 3 Credits
Theory Course (must select one)
- POLS 200 - Special Topics in Political Science 3 Credits (the course must be designated as Theory to count in this category)
- POLS 310 - Leadership, Activism, and Social Justice 3 Credits
- POLS 333 - Political Philosophy 3 Credits
International Course (must select one)
- POLS 200 - Special Topics in Political Science 3 Credits (the course must be designated as International to count in this category)
- POLS 249 - International Politics 3 Credits
- POLS 273 - History of American Foreign Policy Since the Vietnam War 3 Credits
Electives (9 credits)
Three elective courses are selected from any Political Science course or other approved courses in conjunction with a student advisor.
Program Outcome
The student will:
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of political systems, policies, and conflicts in various nations, including the United States, and between nations;
- Describe major historical contributions to theories of politics;
- Develop and apply critical thinking skills and, in a significant research project, demonstrate communication skills;
- Situate political events and political writings within their historical and cultural contexts.
Career Opportunities
Political Science and Advocacy majors complete a credit-bearing internship before graduation with opportunities at the State of Connecticut, the City of Harford, Community Court, local law firms, and more. Students can pursue careers in activism, policy analysis and advocacy, government, and business. This major also prepares students for graduate study in the social sciences, public administration, or law. All graduates may pursue a variety of careers, including administrators, paralegals, client advocates, public partnership specialists, paralegals, legal assistants, community engagement coordinators, political science, and advocacy managers, and more.