Exploring the Subjects Needed for Studying Political Science

Choosing to study political science is a decision that opens up a myriad of academic and career pathways. However, the journey begins with understanding the framework of subjects you will need to undertake during your college education.

Overview of Political Science Curricula

The number of subjects required to study political science can vary widely depending on the institution and program. Generally, a typical undergraduate political science curriculum includes a mix of core, elective, and research methodology courses. Here’s a detailed look at the essential subjects:

Core Courses

These foundational courses provide a comprehensive overview of the field, equipping students with essential knowledge and skills. Common core courses include:

Introduction to Political Science: This course introduces students to key concepts and theories in political science, setting the stage for more advanced study.Comparative Politics: Students learn about the diverse political systems and parties across different nations, fostering a comparative understanding.International Relations: This course explores the dynamics between and among states, covering topics such as diplomacy, international organizations, and global security.Political Theory: Students engage with classic works of political theory, examining seminal ideas that underpin the discipline.American Government: This course delves into the structure, functions, and policies of the U.S. government, providing a deep understanding of democratic processes.

Elective Courses

Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas of particular interest, broadening their knowledge and skills. Some popular options include:

Public Policy: Students study the processes and mechanisms by which policies are created and implemented, with a focus on public sector issues.Political Economy: This course examines the interplay between politics and economics, exploring how markets and government interact.Environmental Politics: Students explore the political and policy dimensions of environmental issues, covering topics like climate change and conservation.Human Rights: This course examines the principles and practices of human rights, with a focus on legal, ethical, and political dimensions.Political Methodology: Here, students learn about the methodologies used in political research, including quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Research Methods and Capstone Projects

Research methods courses are critical for developing analytical skills and preparing students for advanced study. These courses often cover:

Research Design: Students learn how to design and conduct research projects, including both qualitative and quantitative methods.Statistics for Political Science: Essential for analyzing data, this course teaches students statistical techniques relevant to the field.Capstone or Thesis: Many programs require a final project or thesis, which can be an independent study, research project, or policy analysis.

The Breadth of Political Science Courses

The political science major is designed to be flexible, allowing students to explore a wide range of topics. The following is a reasonable set of courses from which a Political Science program might be constructed:

American Foreign PolicyAmerican Political InstitutionsAmerican Political ThoughtAncient and Medieval Political ThoughtBritish PoliticsComparative PoliticsComparative Public Administration and PolicyConstitutional Law IConstitutional Law IIDemocracy the EUDemocracy and DemocratizationDirected Reading in Political ScienceEnvironmental PolicyEU Law Legal SystemsEU Science Technology PolicyEuropean Economic and Monetary UnionEuropean Environmental PolicyFederalism and Multilevel Governance in the EUForeign Policy the EUGender and PoliticsHealth PolicyHistory of European IntegrationInternational Conflict and Conflict ManagementInternational LawInternational OrganizationsInternational Political EconomyInternational RelationsInternship in GovernmentInterorganizational BehaviorIntroduction to Political Science InquiryLatin American PoliticsLegislative ProcessManagement of Non-Profit OrganizationsMedia and PoliticsModern Political ThoughtPolitical AnalysisPolitics of Western EuropePrinciples of Public AdministrationProblems in PoliticsPublic FinancePublic ManagementPublic OpinionPublic PolicyRussian PoliticsSenior SeminarSocial Policy in EuropeTechnology PolicyThe Judicial ProcessThe Presidency

The Path to Your Political Science Degree

To succeed in political science, it’s essential to understand the varying requirements of different institutions. Typically, students can expect to take around 12-16 courses or subjects during their degree. Always check the specific requirements of the institution you are interested in to get precise details.

Embarking on the journey of studying political science opens doors to a rich and diverse academic experience. Whether your interest lies in comparative politics, international relations, or public policy, there are countless pathways to explore. Regardless of the path you choose, a robust curriculum and a willingness to learn will undoubtedly enrich your educational experience and prepare you for a successful career in politics, policy, or academia.