Department of Political Science

John Compton, Ph.D., Chair

Professors: Blaser, Compton, Han;

Instructional Professor: Steiner;
Associate Professors: Babst, Gordon, Molle, Murphy, Shafie, Smoller;
Assistant Professors: Kwon, Ridge;
Assistant Professor of Instruction: Alvarez, Manson.

It is in the political arena that human aspirations are crafted into social policies that directly affect us all. Political science is the discipline that analyzes how that happens. Students in the field examine the problems facing our region, nation and world. Students then seek answers to the questions we confront. Training in political science helps the student think clearly and communicate effectively. These are important skills that are essential in any career. The major helps prepare students for careers in public service, law, diplomacy, journalism, the military and teaching, among others. Students who wish to go to law school may choose any major. However, political science remains one of the most frequently selected majors of those students who actually go to law school. The department emphasizes theoretical concepts learned in the classroom in addition to practical “hands-on” experience.

Students earning double majors in political science and peace studies must ensure that there are 18 unique credits in both majors.

A total of 42 credits are required for the major. Students with scores of four or five on the Advanced Placement Examination in U.S. Government and Politics will be granted three credits, waiving POSC 110 - Introduction to American Politics or with scores of four or five on the Advanced Placement Examination in Comparative Government will be granted three credits, waiving POSC 130 - Introduction to Comparative Politics . All courses in the major must be taken for a letter grade and passed with a “C” or higher.

Extracurricular Opportunities
In addition to an outstanding curriculum, the major in political science at Chapman offers students opportunities in a variety of academic and professional areas, including the Model United Nations, applied research in the Ludie and David C. Henley Social Sciences Research Lab, local internships, internship opportunities in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. In addition, as global citizens and future leaders, political science majors are encouraged to study abroad for a semester.

Departmental Honors
The Department of Political Science awards honors to graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. Requirements for consideration include a GPA of 3.700 or higher within the major, a cumulative GPA of 3.700 or higher and the completion of a substantial independent research project as part of a 400-level seminar or an independent research project in conjunction with a faculty member. Exceptional and/or sustained community service may also be considered.

Degrees

Bachelor of Arts

Political Science, B.A.

Minor

Political Science, Minor

Courses

Political Science