School of Undergraduate Studies

Political Science Major

• Program Objectives
• Degree Requirements
• Course Requirements

Political Science Minor

• Program Objectives
• Minor Requirements

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Political Science

Minor in Political Science

The political science minor complements the skills the student gains in his or her major discipline by providing systematic study of politics and government. It exposes the student to the basic concepts, theories, policies, and the role of government at local, state and national levels in domestic and foreign settings.

Objectives

The student who graduates with a minor in political science will be able to

• Explain the scope and concepts of political science, political theories, the forms and structure of government, and their impact on the political process from a comparative and international perspective.
• Analyze recurrent patterns of international political conflict, identify underlying foreign policy issues and suggest alternative resolutions.
• Identify techniques of conflict resolution (including negotiation, compromise and accommodation) that are appropriate at various points along the policy continuum.
• Demonstrate competency in the application of social justice through effective political participation.
• Apply critical thinking and analytic and effective communication skills in oral and written work when discussing and resolving political issues.

Requirements for the Political Science Minor

A minor in political science requires the completion of 15 credits of coursework in government and politics. All GVPT courses apply. Students are recommended to take GVPT 100, 101, or 170 as the first course in the minor (if they have not already applied the course toward other degree requirements). Courses may not duplicate those used to satisfy requirements for the major. At least 9 credits must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above). Prerequisites apply for all courses.