Departments & Programs

Political Science

Major in Political Science
Purpose

The B.A. Major in Political Science introduces students to fundamental issues in the political process, conditions that create the need for governments, structure and procedures of governments, control of governments and enforcement of responsibility, and relationships among governments. The Political Science major provides students with the skills and knowledge to understand the theory and practice of government and politics, both in the US and internationally. Through our courses, you will learn about political institutions and processes, and develop the capacity to think critically about political controversies, public policies, and societal outcomes.

Majors have opportunities to learn firsthand about politics through internships, study abroad, in-depth research on honors projects or through faculty research grants. IUB students who earn degrees in political science pursue careers in government service, NGOs and non-profit agencies, law, business, journalism, politics, public policy analysis, and education. The department prepares students to assume the duties of citizenship; provides special knowledge and skills useful in public service, law, business, and other careers; and lays a foundation for the scholarly study of government and politics.

Required Courses

Students must complete 30 credit hours in political science, including:

1. Y205. Recommended: up to 9 credit hours of Political Science course work before taking Y205.

2. At least 18 credit hours of 300- and 400-level political science courses, excluding X380, Y480, Y481, Y484, Y496, and Y499.

  • At least one course in American politics or public policy, law, and administration (Y301–Y320, Y324–Y326, Y329, Y349, Y373, Y394)
  • At least one course in comparative politics or international relations (Y332–Y348, Y350–Y372, Y374–Y376, Y399, Y407).
  • At least one course in political theory and methodology (Y379, Y381–Y388, Y395, Y405, Y406)

3. One Y490 Senior Seminar.

No more than 6 credit hours of 100-level courses and 9 combined credit hours of Y200 and Y401 (courses with variable topics) may be included in the 30 credit hours.

Note: Y200 and Y401 may be repeated only once for credit.

Students must complete the degree requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences.

The department encourages students to consider internships, overseas study, and service learning as complements to their major in political science.