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Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The Bachelor of Arts in political science is designed to develop understanding of the theoretical and practical relationship between political culture and governmental structures at the four traditional levels of political organization—local, state, national and international. Students develop the ability to compare alternative systems and to understand the actual political process at various levels. Writing and research skills are also developed, especially in seminar and independent research courses. Graduates of the program are prepared for graduate and professional study and for positions of responsibility in public and civic organizations.
About the B.A. in Political Science
The B.A. in political science is designed to develop understanding of the theoretical and practical relationship between political culture and governmental structures at the four traditional levels of political organization-local, state, national and international. Students develop the ability to compare alternative systems and to understand the actual political process at various levels. Writing and research skills are also developed, especially in seminar and independent research courses. Graduates of the program are prepared for graduate and professional study and for positions of responsibility in public and civic organizations.
Required Courses Credits
POS-1010 |
Introduction to Political Science |
3 |
POS-1020 |
American Politics and Government |
3 |
POS-2050 |
International Economics and Politics |
3 |
POS-2110 |
State and Local Government |
3 |
POS-3010 |
Survey of Western Political Thought |
|
or |
3 |
|
POS-3040 |
The Politics of Gender |
|
POS-4730 |
Senior Seminar in Political Science |
3 |
Electives
POS-1000/2000 |
(2 courses) |
6 |
POS-3000/4000 |
(5 courses)* |
15 |
Total 39
* These electives may include HIS-2410, HIS-3165, HIS-3312, HIS-3351, HIS-4010.
Political science faculty recommend field experience through a semester internship in, for example, the Vermont General Assembly or Legislative Council, state and federal agencies, newspapers and wire services, the U.S. Congress, international organizations, law offices, Legal Aid, interest groups, public affairs foundations, election campaigns, etc. Such experiences have often led directly to career opportunities in these fields. Internships enable students to meet many of the decision makers in state government and are particularly valuable when integrated with seminars in political science.
Course Descriptions and Program Details
For more information about a B.A. in political science, see the Undergraduate Course Catalogue.
