Program Description

The major in Political Science provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of governmental structures, legislative and judicial processes, political theory, and international relations. Students acquire civic literacy as they examine case studies that reveal the struggle over power and authority and methods of resolution utilized in political processes. Political science majors are encouraged to gain professional experience by participating in The College of Saint Rose internship program in order to learn, firsthand, how human relations shape and are impacted by political dynamics. The major in Political Science provides a career-oriented education for students seeking employment in government, politics, public policy, foreign service, and advocacy; to prepare students for law school; and to prepare students of demonstrated competence for graduate study.

Degree Requirements

To earn a B.A. degree in Political Science students must complete the following:
• 45 credit hours in Political Science, 24 at the 300 and 400 level
• 42 credit hours in Liberal Arts requirements
• 35 credit hours in general electives, a portion of which may be used for internship or study abroad program opportunities

Required Political Science Coursework

POS 100 Introduction to History and Political Science
POS 112 Critical Analysis of U.S. Politics
POS 142 Political Ideologies
POS 171 International Relations
POS 173 Comparative Politics
POS 200 Theories and Methods of Political Inquiry

Five additional 300 and 400-level courses including one from each of the four subfields:
U.S. Politics, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations

POS 498 Capstone Seminar