B.A in Political Science || Minor in Political Science || MPA Program || MA Program || Pre-Law

MAJOR IN POLITICAL SCIENCE

Degree Requirements for Major in Political Science (PDF)

What is Political Science? College students may ask the same question when the academic adviser recommends a course in “Polly Sigh.” Everyone had heard of history, economics, and even sociology and psychology. But what was Political Science?

The term “political science” (science politique) was coined by a French political philosopher, Jean Bodin (1530-1596). Bodin was also a lawyer, and his focus on the characteristics of the state gave political science long lasting concern for the organization of institutions related to law.

Later, this definition of politics was reinforced by another French philosopher, Montesquieu (1689-1755) who argued that all functions of government could be encompassed within categories of legislation, execution and the adjudication of law.

These categories found their way into the Constitution of the United States. We know them today as: the legislative branch (Congress), the executive branch and the judicial branch (the courts).

Political Science has expanded beyond this definition. Today, political science has many facets… American politics, international affairs, health, the environment, civil rights, political theory, public administration, political behavior…and much more!

POLITICAL SCIENCE AND PRE-LAW

The Political Science and Pre-Law program at Arkansas State University offers both a balanced selection of courses and specialization within many areas of discipline. It is designed to prepare students for a wide variety of programs and vocations. Including law, teaching, executive positions in political parties, public relations and business firms, careers in government agencies on the federal, state and local levels, and graduate studies in political science and public administration. Numerous courses are offered in the areas of public administration, comparative politics, political theory, American Politics and international politics. The degree offered is the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science. A minor in Political Science, or in any of the sub-fields is also offered.

A student majoring in Political Science or Pre-Law must earn a total of 124 semester credits for the Bachelor of Arts degree. Requirements include Introduction to U.S. Government, plus an additional 39 hours of political science; 12 hours of a foreign language; 46-49 hours of General Education requirements; and 26 hours of free electives.

For your convenience, the Political Science Degree Requirements detailed list is offered in both Microsoft Word and Corel Word Perfect.