Political Science Course Descriptions

POLS C1000 
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

  • This course is an introduction to government and politics in the United States and California. Students examine the constitutions, structure, and operation of governing institutions, civil liberties and civil rights, political behaviors, political issues, and public policy using political science theory and methodology.
    (Formerly POL 101)

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 201 
INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL SCIENCE

  • This course is an introductory survey of the field of political science designed to familiarize students with basic political concepts, political ideologies, political systems, and subfields within political science. This course will also focus on the major concepts, theories, institutions, processes and policies of government at the national, state, and local levels. The class is intended for college transfer students, especially political science majors.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 210 
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

  • This course is a study of basic concepts, theories, and principles of international politics. Emphasis shall be placed on an examination of contemporary world affairs including the importance of nationalism, imperialism, ideology, alliance systems, the rise of the developing nations and the nature of international organizations. Specific case studies shall be examined to illustrate the various principles of international relations.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 220 
COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT

  • This course includes a study of comparative systems of government, differing ideologies, and current political problems. Analyses of revolutionary forces in the 20th century are conducted for political insight and understanding.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 230 
CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL ISSUES: MIDDLE EAST

  • A one-semester course emphasizing the basic issues in conflict between nations of the Middle East, this class will investigate, in addition to the political and economic conditions, the social and cultural contributions of the Middle Eastern nations.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 240 
INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL THEORY

  • This course is an introduction to western political thought. The course surveys major themes in the history of political theory, including works by Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Machiavelli, Locke, Hobbes, Rousseau and Marx. Topics of discussion include how best to govern society, the quality and ethics of political leadership, the sources of law and governmental authority, the issue of liberty and justice, and the role of the state in economic relations.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 250 
UNDERSTANDING THE UNITED NATIONS: THEORY AND PRACTICE

  • This course introduces students to the theory and practice of international diplomacy and explores the purpose and functions of international organizations, with an emphasis on the United Nations. Students will examine the historical evolution, norms, rules, and functions of the UN within the broader context of global issues, human rights, and diplomacy. The course includes discussions of pressing international problems, established international law, and the protocols and procedures of diplomacy. Designed to equip students with practical skills, the course incorporates immersive activities such as class simulations and participation in a Model United Nations conference. This course is well-suited for individuals with an interest in foreign policy, diplomacy, international relations, law, and conflict resolution, or those who are intrigued by the intricate dynamics of global governance and diplomatic relations in a postnational 21st century. 

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 255 
GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP

  • This course is an introduction to international studies and global studies for political science majors and non-majors. It reviews the key events and patterns in the world to understand the ways that relations among world communities impact the lives of the people in them. It examines the key elements of global citizenship. And it introduces students to the concept of “Global” – think globally, act locally. The world communities are becoming increasingly interconnected, interrelated, and interdependent. This phenomenon undoubtedly has a significant effect on the way people live around the world. This course aims to introduce students to the reality of this occurrence, and to critically analyze the various factors that help us to understand how the interconnectedness, interrelatedness, and interdependency is happening and the general effects they are having on us. By examining these factors which are rooted in politics, economic, military, environmental, and social relations, we ourselves are immersed in them as global citizens. And ultimately seek to understand what global citizenship is, and what are the rights and responsibilities that accompany this title of global citizen.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

POL 280 
RACE, GENDER & SEXUAL IDENTITY IN POLITICS

  • This course introduces students to an overview of the history, the issues, and the political processes that effect the status and power of groups which have traditionally been politically and socially disadvantaged, scapegoated and marginalized in the United States. These groups include, but are not restricted to, African-Americans, Asians, Latinx, women, gay and lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people. Of particular concern are the ways inequalities regarding race, gender, sexual orientation and identity affect political power and political privilege within the American political system. 

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC
  • Meets CSU/UC Ethnic Studies Requirement 

POL 281 
RACE, Ethnicity & Latinx POLITICS 

  • This course serves to broaden the ethnic and racial perspectives of students by examining the political, social, and cultural experiences of Latinx communities in the United States. Special attention is devoted to theoretical approaches to the study of Latinx politics, the diversity and intersectionality of Latinx identity and political equality, the systemic barriers to political and socio-economic progress, and how inequalities affect power, privilege, and political behavior in the United States. Students will also analyze the social movements and contemporary issues affecting Latinx Americans in their struggle for equal access to the U.S. political system. This course is not open to students who are currently enrolled in or who have received credit for ETHN 281.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC
  • Meets CSU/UC Ethnic Studies Requirement 

POL 282 
RACE, Ethnicity & black POLITICS 

  • This course serves to broaden the ethnic and racial perspectives of students by examining the political, social, and cultural experiences of African Americans in the United States. Special attention will be placed on Black political ideologies and theories, the diversity and intersectionality of Black identity and political equality, systemic barriers to political and socioeconomic progress, and how discrimination affects power, privilege, and political behavior. Students will also analyze the social movements and contemporary political issues affecting Black Americans in their struggle for equal access to the U.S. political system. This course is not open to students who are currently enrolled in or who have received credit for ETHN 282.

  • Transfer Credit: CSU; UC
  • Meets CSU/UC Ethnic Studies Requirement