Undergraduate Studies
Description of the Degrees Offered
The Department of Political Science offers three main undergraduate degrees:
- Associate of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
Within the framework of the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs, students may pursue a major in political science or they may choose an emphasis in pre-law. There is no specified curriculum which pre-law students are expected to follow.
An advisory committee has been created to assist students in developing a curriculum that reflects their individual needs. The program phone number is (208) 282-2211, Stop 8073. You can also contact the political science chair, Dr. Anderson if you have any questions. Please visit the political science section inside the current 2012-2013 undergraduate catalog for more specific information on teachers, classes, and program requirements.
Undergraduate Program Objectives
- To gain a well-rounded knowledge of the basic fields of the discipline.
- To develop an understanding of how political scientists think, gather evidence, process data, and reach tentative conclusions.
- To think critically about political phenomena and thought.
- To develop effective oral and written communication skills.
- To engage in problem solving.
- To be exposed to a rich variety of perspectives and ideas.
- To prepare for a career or profession after graduation that is related to the political science major, which includes graduate school.
Core Curriculum
The courses in political science are grouped into several topics, including American Indian Studies, American Politics, Comparative Government, General Courses, International Politics, Introductory Courses, Political Analysis, Political Theory, Public Administration, and Public Law.
In addition to the general requirements for the B.A. and B.S. degrees, political science majors are required to take courses from the following core curriculum:
POLS 1101Introduction to American Government
POLS 2202Introduction to Politics
POLS 2221Introduction to International Relations
POLS 3313Introduction to Political Philosophy
POLS 3331Comparative Politics: Framework for Analysis
POLS 4401Political Parties and Interest Groups OR
POLS 4427 Voting and Public Opinion
POLS 4403The Presidency OR
POLS 4404 Legislative Process
POLS 4442Constitutional Law
POLS 4443Constitutional Law
POLS 4460Senior Seminar
In addition to the 27 credits from the core curriculum, majors are required to earn a minimum of 12 elective credits selected from any of the courses in the political science curriculum (excluding POLS 4459 Internship).
Pre-Law Students
Students who desire to complete this emphasis should consult with a pre-law advisor in the Department of Political Science. The program phone number is (208) 282-2211, Stop 8073.
Minor in Political Science
Students seeking a minor in political science must complete the following: POLS 1101, 2202, six credits of core curriculum courses (excluding POLS 4460) and six elective political science credits (excluding POLS 4459).
