Political Science, BA

A Bachelor of Arts with a major in political science combines cutting-edge research with award-winning teaching to ensure your academic and career goals are met. Our courses provide a deep understanding of relevant issues in local, national and international governments.

Degree requirements

The following requirements must be satisfied for a Bachelor of Arts with a major in political science.

Hours required and general/college requirements

A minimum of 120 semester hours, of which 42 must be advanced, and fulfillment of degree requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree as specified in the “University Core Curriculum ” in the Academics section of this catalog and the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences requirements.

Major requirements

30 hours in political science

Political science majors must complete 30 hours in political science:

PSCI 2306 - US and Texas Constitutions and Institutions
or
PSCI 2316 - Honors U.S. and Texas Constitutions and Institutions
PSCI 2305 - US Political Behavior and Policy
or
PSCI 2315 - Honors US Political Behavior and Policy
or
PSCI 1060 - American Government: Topics
PSCI 2300 - Introduction to Political Research
21 advanced hours, including at least one advanced course each in three of the listed areas of study; and completion of either PSCI 4951, PSCI 4952 , PSCI 4953 or PSCI 4954 .

Advanced courses

Advanced courses are offered in six areas of study:

Field A, American government and politics

Field B, Public law

Field C, Political theory and methodology

Field D, Public policy

Field E, Comparative government and politics

Field F, International relations

Notes

Courses listed in more than one area of study may be counted toward the requirements of only one area.

*May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

Electives

Hours required for electives may vary based on course selection and the University Core Curriculum requirements. Electives may be required to satisfy the advanced hour requirement (42) and/or the minimum total hours required for the degree. For specific information see an academic advisor in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.

Other requirements

Academic requirements for graduation with a BA degree in political science: A student must have a minimum of 2.5 grade point average in all courses counting toward the political science major; the student must have a 2.0 grade point average in all work attempted, including transfer, correspondence, extension and residence work in all courses.