Political Science, B.A.

Political Science Major

The political science program focuses on the study of theories of government, government processes and institutions, and political forces that contribute to the formation evolution, and operation of government in the United States and around the world.

All political science majors take introductory courses on United States’ politics, comparative politics, political theory, and international relations. Majors are then given the flexibility to choose from a variety of advanced courses, allowing students to customize a path of study that either continues to span several of these fields or provides specialization in one of these areas.

The political science major helps develop informed and active citizens, but it is also good for future employment. It has proven useful for those who plan careers in secondary and higher education, the legal profession, government, urban planning, journalism, or any other field that requires critical thinking and analysis. Political science continues to provide an excellent background for those who wish to pursue advanced studies in business, law, or public administration. With faculty who excel both as teachers and researchers, the Department of Political Science has a strong tradition of excellence in undergraduate and graduate education.

Students who choose to major in Political Science must also meet the university core requirements and the college core requirements for a CLASS Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree.

Students must earn a minimum 2.00 grade point average in all courses in the major (required or elective) attempted at this university. Students must complete 30 hours of political science courses, at least 24 hours in advanced courses.

Requirements

Electives

Students are strongly encouraged to take one course in comparative politics and one international relations.

Note(s):

• POLS 1336  and POLS 1337  or equivalents may not be applied toward the major.
• Students must complete at least 15 of the required 30 semester hours in political science in residence at the University of Houston.
  • Twelve of the 15 hours must be advanced Political Science Courses.
• Transferred credit to be counted toward the Political Science major requirements must have a grade of C- or better.
• No more than six total semester hours of grades of D in political science will be applied toward degree requirements in the major.
• No more than six semester hours of special problems courses and/or internships may be used to satisfy any major requirement in political science.