COURSES OFFERED

Political Science 1
Governments of the United States and California

3 units; 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: eligibility for English 1A
Credit, degree applicable
Transfer CSU, UC*; (CAN GOVT 2)

This course is a survey of the concepts, theories, and functions of the American political system. The basic principles of the United States Constitution and the government of California will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on the formal and informal influences of federalism on national and state governments.

Political Science 2
Comparative Politics

Consideration of comparative analysis as a sub-field of Political Science, and examination of the prevalent methodology for such analysis. This survey course will include the selection of three or more nation-states and their treatment in a configurative/comparative manner.

Political Science 3
Introduction to Principles and Methods of Political Science

This course is a survey of the nature and scope of political science. The course focuses on the analysis of the basic concepts, political theories and subfields of the discipline. Major topics will include a description of the methodology and research techniques employed by contemporary political scientists. Also covered will be an examination of major political theories of the individual and the state, and the impact of these themes on modern political ideologies.

Political Science 5
Ethnicity in the American Political Process

A critical analysis of the ethnic factor in the American political process, past and present. Through the study of the nature of the American political system, consideration will be given to the political problems of the African, Latin, Asian/Pacific and Native Americans.

Political Science 6
Civil Rights and Liberties in the United States

An introduction to civil rights and liberties based on recent legislation and pertinent court decisions with emphasis on freedom of expression, rights of the defendant and problems of minorities and women. Designed to meet general education requirements in the field, the course is of special interest for political science and administration of justice majors and prelaw students.

Political Science 8
California State and Local Government and Intergovernmental Issues

In this course the organization and operation of California’s state and local (county, city, special district) governments, as well as intergovernmental issues, will be examined. Topics will include urban problems, regional politics, and intergovernmental relations. California’s interrelationships with local and national institutions and policies will be analyzed.

Political Science 10
Introduction to International Relations

In this course students will examine the factors that determine the relations between nations and the problems that result from the interplay of these factors. The conditions that can lead to both conflict and cooperation among nations will be examined. Major topics include international security, issues of international political economy, and international organizations. International law and diplomacy are examined as alternative means of resolving conflict.

Political Science 50
Special Topics in Political Science

This course is designed to explore topics in Political Science more specific than provided in other courses in the regular departmental curriculum. Students are referred to the current schedule of classes for details of specific courses.

Political Science 99abc
Independent Study

This course provides advanced studies in a subject field of Political Science not covered in the regular departmental offerings. Regular conferences will be held with the instructor to discuss and coordinate the assigned projects (60 hours per unit).

Note: Refer to page 11 of the College Catalog for eligibility requirements.

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