Political Science Minor
The minor in Political Science takes a disciplinary and humanistic approach to political issues.
Not open to majors in International Relations, Political Science any emphasis, or International Economics Political Economy emphasis, or to minors in International Relations.
No more than two courses applied to a minor may overlap with the student's declared major.
Minor Requirements (18 Credits)
- Required Courses:
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- POL 100 Introduction to Political Science
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Basic concepts of the discipline are discussed in this class with a focus on the evolution of the state and the role of the individual from historical, ideological, and comparative perspectives.
- POL 300 Comparative Politics
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The development of the modern nation-state is analyzed from a variety of theoretical viewpoints. The approach and methods of major social theorists are examined in detail. Formerly POL 400. Students who have previously earned credit for POL 400 cannot earn credit for POL 300.
- POL 302 Political Philosophy
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This course is designed to familiarize students with the major currents of political philosophy. It covers a broad range of central thinkers from the major philosophers of ancient Greece up to the proponents of modern-day liberalism. The course situates political philosophies in their historical context of emergence and thereby provides an overview of the history of the central ideas which are at the heart of thinking about politics, society and justice. The reading of primary and secondary sources serves as the basis for in-depth class discussions and a critical engagement with the normative underpinnings of societal organization.
- POL 303 Key Concepts in Political Economy
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Political entities have always sought ways to organize economic activity, including the production and distribution of goods and services. This course introduces students to the key ideas and theories that have shaped debates on the political and social implications of economic policies. Students learn about different understandings of prosperity, welfare and development, which are connected to political questions of freedom, equality, authority and power. The course also explores different methodological standpoints; from rational choice to institutionalism, postmodernism and historical materialism. It places particular emphasis on the role of governments and political interests in shaping conflictual processes of collective decision-making. Finally, this course also looks at key political actors (states, organized labor, capital) and their interactions, thereby highlighting how strategic factors influence social, political and economic choices. (Recommended prerequisite: POL 101)
- Two courses in Political Science: one at the 200-level and one at the 300-level.
No more than two courses applied to a minor may overlap with the student's declared major.