Political Science

Chris Riley
509.793.2184
politicalscience@bigbend.edu

Jody Quitadamo
509.793.2177
politicalscience@bigbend.edu

Political science courses may be taken as part of the Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree. These courses may be used toward the Social Science Breadth requirement or for Specified or General Elective credit. Students seeking Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree should refer to the catalog section “Degrees & Certificates” for a detailed description of the degree, its program outcomes, and courses that will satisfy degree requirements.

Political science undertakes the study of government and politics as it affects human affairs. It takes into account political conditions in America as well as in diverse areas of the world. As a discipline of study, political science is an important part of a general liberal arts education. Students who plan to major in political science may prepare for a number of careers, including public school teaching, government service, law, international business, or professional political scientist.

Since programs differ at each college, students should consult program outlines published by the college or university to which they intend to transfer. Students should prepare their quarterly schedules with the assistance of an advisor knowledgeable in this transfer area.

Recommended Pre-Major Courses

POLS& 101 Introduction to Political Science CWU & EWU*

POLS& 202 American Government CWU & EWU*

POLS& 203 International Relations CWU

CJ& 110 Criminal Law EWU
* EWU: POLS& 101 and POLS& 202 have same course equivalent

Courses

POLS& 101: Introduction to Political Science

Credits 5
In order to make politics relevant to the people, one must go where the people are. Many Americans find politics to be distant and irrelevant to their daily experience without ever realizing that politics are all around them in many different formats. This class brings students face-to-face with such realities while emphasizing an understanding of the nature, purpose, and practice of American politics within a global context. Topics covered include the American Constitution, the elections process, bureaucracies, the role of the media, and modern political culture in America.

POLS& 202: United States Government

Credits 5

This course focuses upon the institutions which form the governmental structures of the United States. Students participate in activities and discussions intended to broaden their understanding of what it means to serve in government and the importance of the role government plays in the functioning of the country.

POLS& 203: International Relations

Credits 5
This course serves as an introduction to global relations, focusing on historical backgrounds, current struggles, and the struggle to define the post-cold-war world. Students taking this course are encouraged to adopt a global outlook and will participate in a mock international conference designed to provide direct experience in the world of diplomacy. Course meets BBCC diversity.