Students are encouraged to check the Political Department’s webpage regularly throughout the quarter for online class schedules, course syllabai, changes in curriculum, and internship/career opportunities at CSUB.
The Political Science Department has two principal goals. The first is to provide students, whatever their career aims, with information they will need to be effective citizens. The role of citizen in a democratic system requires that people be able to understand, analyze, and describe the complexities of the democratic process, to appreciate and comprehend the historical and theoretical frameworks of democratic constitutionalism, and to cultivate the analytical ability to analyze the interaction among states in the international realm. Moreover, throughout their studies, students will be challenged to refine their own political judgments, learn the issues surrounding contemporary affairs, and be able to identify and analyze the available alternatives as well as their consequences. The political science department and others in the humanities and behavioral sciences are responsible for helping students gain the kind of understanding of their political and social environment, which enables them to approach politics in an informed and intelligent manner. Our objective is not to produce mere “consumers” of information but to educate creative participants in our political life.
The second goal is to help those for whom the study of politics may be useful career preparation. Those who major or minor in Political Science can expect to develop an understanding of contemporary political systems and institutions, to become acquainted with the basic methods of political science research, and to become aware of the relationships between this field of study and the other social sciences. Many of our courses involve students in direct, original research. Such experiences have been shown to be valuable as preparation for lives devoted to government and non-governmental service, journalism, politics, law, community leadership, teaching, and business.
A student must demonstrate a familiarity with the basic approaches, methods and theories underlying modern social sciences including competency in statistics. Familiarity with data processing and electronic data retrieval and verbal and written communication is also required. All majors are encouraged to study at least one foreign language, field research, data analysis, film production, or other state-of-the-art methodology.
To facilitate this, the Department both teaches itself and accepts transfer credits from other programs of five units of internship, cooperative education, and certificate courses. Further, the Department assumes a responsibility for assessment of student outcomes apart from grades students earn in specific courses. Assessment is a collaborative process in which students and graduates provide portfolios, job histories and other information on the value of their major or minor in Political Science.
All majors must satisfactorily complete at least thirteen full courses in Political Science, of which at least ten must be at the upper division level and must also declare a minor (see section on Minor Requirement below). Course programs for majors in Political Science are developed in close consultation with a faculty advisor interested in the student’s intellectual growth and development and in his/her eventual career plans.
Choose one of the following concentrations:
Select three courses not taken for the concentration from the list below; only one of these may be lower division.
Every student who completes the major in Political Science in any one of the three concentrations - American, International Relations, or Pre-Law is required to prepare a portfolio that displays what has been gained from the major in Political Science. The portfolio is a collection of materials gathered from work done in various classes sanctioned by the Political Science Department. This collection addresses each of the competency goals outlined by the Political Science Department, which is detailed on the Department web page and is available in the Department office.
To create a portfolio, each student will have to provide evidence of competency in the following areas: political understanding, theory building, data analysis, formal pre sentations, research methods, basic computer management, and personal career management. Demonstrating individual competency in these areas will require that each student provide evidence of his/her work and accomplishments from individual classes, internships, and research projects. Portfolios should be seen as “works in progress” during your tenure here, and must be turned in to the responsible faculty member teaching Senior Seminar 490 when you take the Senior Seminar course. No student will be allowed to graduate from Senior Seminar with a portfolio project that receives a “B-“ or less. Questions about the portfolio may be directed to the student’s advisor, or to any Political Science faculty member.
The requirement for a major in Political Science mandates the completion of a minor. This can be accomplished by completing one of the three options listed below:
The Department recognizes two types of graduation with distinction:
Four courses selected from the following. Two courses must be taken from Economics and two from Philosophy.
Satisfaction of the American Institutions requirement shall be met by no less than one course in United States History and one other course in United States and California government or by examinations administered respectively by the History and Political Science Departments. For courses in the Political Science Department which satisfy the United States and California Government portions of the American Institutions Requirement (see page 62).
Four courses totaling 20 quarter units in Political Science (at least three of which must be upper division) with an average of “C” or better. No more than five units in the minor may be internship, cooperative education, or applied course work.
Courses which will be of special interest to students without substantial quantitative skills include PLSI 302, PLSI 306, PLSI 308, PLSI 313, PLSI 315, PLSI 317, PLSI 319, BEHS 321, PLSI 322, PLSI 323, PLSI 328, PLSI 333, and PLSI 334. Other courses may be suitable depending on the instructor’s announced objectives and approach.
The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) has authorized CSUB to offer an approved single subject matter preparation program in Social Science. The generic Social Science Teacher Preparation Program is listed under Teacher Preparation/Subject Matter Programs. The following course pattern satisfies all requirements for this preparation program within the BA in Political Science. (Courses satisfying requirements for the Political Science major are in bold type.)
Because of the changing nature of this program all interested students should see a qualified advisor before making final decisions regarding the CCTC.
Students should consult the sections above for additional requirements for a BA in Political Science with an American Concentration, International Relations Concentration, or Pre-Law Concentration. Taken alone, the Social Science Preparation Program is neither a degree program nor a major.
An examination of the ways in which those who practice political science view the American political system. Students can expect to gain a basis for systematic, informed thinking about the processes by which Americans govern each other and govern themselves, the manner in which those processes affect the policies we adopt in response to issues, and the way in which issues influence changes in the decision-making processes.
An examination of the basic elements influencing global politics. Central themes of the course include the emergence of the modern nation state system, the origins of international law and organization, and the impact of technology and globalization on society in the 21st century. The course concludes by focusing on contemporary world problems such as the threats posed by nuclear war and proliferation, environmental degradation, climate change, global inequality, and international financial crises.
An examination of the economic, social, and geographical factors of political culture in the Asian nations of Japan and India. The focus of the course is on a comparative study of change in the two societies, particularly on the interaction of cultures and politics in the processes of modernization. The focus will be on examining political and economic change in Asia. The thrust of the course is comparative and students will be exposed to the history, politics, culture and economy of states in the region. The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the revolutionary and evolutionary changes in the region from a political and economic perspective, while providing a broader understanding of the regional and international implications of these changes.
An analyses of the form, content, and effect of various sorts of political novels and films, paying special attention to the emergence and success of various sorts of political expression at different points in American political experience. Students can expect to gain an acquaintance with the conventions of novels and films, a basis for systematic, informed criticism of such works, and some understanding of the nature of political life.
An examination of some of the central concepts of political science and some of the continuing issues of politics. Students can expect to gain exposure to and practice in each of the major kinds of activity in which political scientists engage. Emphasis will be on the preparation, presentation, and critical evaluation of a series of brief papers. Prerequisite: Freshman standing and invitation by the department.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
An examination of selected contemporary political problems. Subjects vary from term to term but might include such topics as the politics of Black America, the politics of student protest, the politics of ecology, etc. Prerequisite: one course in Political Science or consent of instructor. May be repeated once for credit.
Evaluation and assessment of learning which has occurred as a result of prior off-campus experience relevant to the curriculum of the department. Requires complementary academic study and/or documentation. Available by petition only, on a credit, no-credit basis. Not open to postgraduate students. Interested students should contact the department office.
An analysis of political science methods and the design of political research. Includes an examination of social problems, formulation of research hypotheses, and introduction to social science statistics. Prerequisite: one course in Political Science and sophomore standing.
An analysis of the major schools and approaches in the study of U.S. Foreign policy. Particular attention is paid to historical, ideological, and economic influences on the decision-making process. Includes a survey and evaluation of the major developments in U.S. foreign policy from the Cold War to the current Post-Cold War system.
An examination of the theoretical and pragmatic factors relevant to the formulation and execution of U.S. national defense policy. The course will focus on the role of various factors (executive, legislative, public opinion, military, etc.) in the defense policy-making process. This course focuses on both international and domestic security problems. While traditional concepts of power and the use of force are covered this course also looks at other elements impacting the global security environment. These include the increasing impact that international organizations, revolution(s) in military affairs, enduring interstate rivalries, economic globalization, terrorism, ethnic cleansing and genocide, and the role competing political ideologies have on issues related to global security.
An examination of theories and logic behind nation-state strategies with regard to power, defense, stability, and economic development, among others. This course examines the theories that explain how states prioritize goals by analyzing state actions via individual, state, and international levels of analysis.
A study of socialization and society in European nations and regions with an emphasis on cultural nationalism, socialism, post-materialism, and other value orientations that affect political outcomes. Studies of generational changes, migration, alienation, and other phenomena in both large and small European national communities.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
An examination of institutions, participants, and processes of government in China. This course examines the impact of ideology and leadership in the processes of modernization and liberalization in contemporary China.
A comparative analysis of selected nations in Latin America, with a primary focus on the Southern Cone region (especially Argentina, Brazil, and Chile) and Central America. Emphasis is on social and economic structures as determinants of contemporary politics and policy change in Latin American society. Challenges to development are also examined within the contemporary “neoliberal” policies currently practiced throughout the region.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
An examination of the organization and activities of political parties and electoral behavior in America combined with an analysis of the political, social, and psychological factors that promote and inhibit individual and group participation in electoral activity. Within the context of voting behavior, this course explores political parties in America and how they attempt to win popular control of government through the electoral process. Prerequisite: upper division standing or consent of instructor.
An examination of the judicial role in American constitutional adjudication, both historical and contemporary. Particular emphases on federalism, separation of powers, and other topics on the exercise and extent of national power. Prerequisite: one course in Political Science or consent of instructor.
An examination of the principles, reasoning, and politics of private and individual rights in American constitutional adjudication. Emphasis on Equal Protection, Criminal Justice Due Process, Freedom of Expression, and Right to Privacy. Prerequisite: one course in Political Science or consent of instructor.
An examination of Congressional decision making and the factors that shape legislative processes. Students will analyze the history of the institution, the electoral process that leads to service in the national legislature, and the rules and norms that govern its internal processes. Prerequisite: one course in Political Science or consent of instructor.
An examination of the constitutional design and practical operation of the American Presidency. The course includes investigations into the nature of executive leadership, the constitutional and administrative powers of the president, legislative-executive relations, and role of public opinion, and the role of personality as expressed in presidential character.
An examination of the issues, institutions, and processes that affect public policy in California. Topics include the constitution, the history and political culture, and the impact of policies regarding such matters as taxes, energy, education, criminal justice, immigration, and home rule for local governments.
An examination of the ways in which nongovernmental groups influence the formation, direction, execution and change in public policy in America. Emphasis is on factors that contribute to such influences. Students can expect to pursue a research project on a selected topic. Prerequisite: PLSI 300.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
An examination of the institutions and processes of government in Japan. The period covered will include the final years of the Tokugawa Government, the Meiji Restoration, the war years, and contemporary democracy. Special attention will be given to the government role in the economy, changing party politics and public protests as determinants of Japanese interests in the 21st century.
An examination of contemporary conflicts and policies among nations in the Middle East. Emphasis is on religion, nationalism, political sovereignty, and economic modernization affecting regional relations. The role of the United States will also be discussed.
An analysis of the historical and social roots of Mexican politics and contemporary policy issues in Mexico. Particular emphasis is given to U.S. Mexican relations, challenges of development and peasant economies, the history of one party rule in the 20th century, NAFTA, and the key issues surrounding “post-PRI” Mexico.
This is a course in the politics, government, and economy of contemporary Russia. The course will be divided into three parts, the first of which will focus on the pre- Communist and Communist period following the 1917- 1923 civil war and the formation of the Soviet Union. The second will focus on the Cold War development of the USSR, the final decade of the Communist system, and the collapse of the state in the period from 1989 through 1992. The third part of the course will examine post-Soviet Russia.
An examination of the psychological processes involved in the formation and change of public opinion. Attention focused on the role of propaganda in attitude acquisition and change. Several examples of political propaganda and mass appeals will be examined. Prerequisite: upper division standing.
An overview of Latino political experience in the U.S. with special attention to Mexican-Americans. Particular emphasis on cultural background, social history, politics, education, and the law. Other issues deal with political impacts of Latino family structure and Latinos’ role in the economy.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
Lectures, analysis and field work on the relationships between physical and cultural geography and the power in nations, states, and communities. Case studies in both U.S. and other nations and GIS exercises. Satisfies the Geography requirement for Liberal Studies. Cross-listed as GEOG 332.
This course examines various theories of the nature of social and political life. Significant contributions to Western political philosophy, such as those of Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Mill, Marx, and Rawls, will be examined along with the concepts of rights, equality, justice, obligation, liberty and utility. Additional readings may contribute to analysis of the development of political institutions and civil society in the West and their effects on non-European nations and cultures. This course carries credit in either Philosophy or Political Science. Cross-listed as PHIL 333.
An analysis of fundamental assumptions about democratic government and practices. Students can expect to develop tests for evaluating performance of political institutions and practices based on the results of that examination. Special attention will be given to American experience as a whetstone for shaping those tests. Prerequisite: upper division standing or consent of instructor.
This course investigates the theoretical foundations, the functional processes, and contemporary theories of the American Regime. Students investigate the political and social institutions established under the U.S. Constitution, review important changes in the political and social institutions, and study changes in relations between government and citizens. Taken as a whole, the themes explored in this course lie at the intersection of politics, philosophy, history, and sociology, and should appeal to students wishing to pursue a career in teaching civics or social studies at the secondary school level.
The course presents a general understanding of feminist concepts and gender cultural differences that affect American and International politics. For American politics, the emphasis is on how gender ideas affect public opinion, voting patterns, campaigning and women as leaders. The course applies a gender lens to basic questions of international relations, such as national security questions, economic development, and foreign policy.
Focus on political experiences of African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, and Latinos. This course examines the major theories explaining American politics in light of race and ethnicity. Particular emphasis on intra- and intergroup conflict and cooperation, and the nature and dynamics of American political values, discourse, leadership, organizations, institutions, and policies, when analyzed from the perspectives of four major racial and ethnic groups.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
Discussion and practice in the logic, analysis, data interpretation, and writing that characterizes Anglo-Saxon jurisprudence. Special topics taken from contemporary issues include torts and remedies, administrative authority, freedom of speech, death penalty, entertainment law, and antitrust policy.
The subject matter of this course is the network of international organizations redefining global politics. By the end of the 20th century, international organizations challenge the nation-state’s political authority and power. Two types of international organizations are examined in this course: intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). This growth of transnational organizations reflects the processes of social, economic, and technological globalization that creates a complex network of participants in global politics.
This course will examine terrorism from both the historical and international perspectives. The historical and ideological roots and development of terrorism will be explored along with the different types of terrorism, such as state terrorism, state-sponsored terrorism, and rebel terrorism. Additionally, attention will be given to cases drawn from different regions of the globe, including Europe, the United States, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.
An intensive examination of issues of current political concern with attention to the development of the problem and alternate ways of responding to it. The issues examined vary from term to term but include such topics as political corruption, the political implications of multinational corporations, terrorism and political subversion, etc. Course credits can also be applied for the Model United Nations experience. Prerequisite: Upper division standing, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for different course content.
One of the alternatives for applications after PLSI 300, with emphasis on practice of social research, including inferential statistics, data management using SPSS, and other computer-based analytical techniques, and other skills important in political science careers. Prerequisite: PLSI 300.
PLSI 404 Politics of International Commerce (5)
An examination of the international political economy focusing on the structures and patterns of trade and trade agreements. Particular emphasis is given to international banking, currency exchange, problems of international lending, debt management in developing countries and the former Soviet bloc, and multinational corporate approaches to economic development. Agreements and protocols of the post-WWII period and the World Trade Organization are emphasized throughout.
This course explores the politics of the social, cultural, demographic, economic, and security impacts of immigration on American society and how politics shape U.S. immigration policy on issues of family reunification, human rights, civil liberties, civil rights, and State roles in integrating immigrants into U.S. society. Comparisons to immigrations politics in European Union and other nations and regions.
Study of the relationship between culture and politics, with emphasis on how culture and subculture shape political processes and values and how regimes utilize popular culture to achieve their goals in domestic and foreign policy. Among the forms of popular culture in these analyses will be music, film, literature, and sports. Emphasis is on the U.S., but with attention also to other nations and cultures. Prerequisite: upper division standing.
This course explores the relationship between religion and politics. The purpose of this course is to understand the role of religious ideas, values, and beliefs in influencing politics within and between states. The course may examine diverse aspects beyond religion such as nationalism, colonialism-orientalism, human rights and cultural globalization.
Current concerns challenging the discipline’s theories and methods. Topics include governmental regulation of innovation in medical treatment, ethics in the intelligence community, the impact of development on ideology, politics and mass media, etc. Offered periodically to respond to student and faculty interests. Prerequisite: upper division standing. May be repeated for different course content.
Student conducts and writes up an individual study under faculty supervision. Prerequisite: PLSI 300 and consent of instructor.
Student conducts and writes up a research project under faculty supervision. Prerequisite: PLSI 300 and consent of instructor.
Evaluation and assessment of learning which has occurred as a result of prior off-campus experience relevant to the curriculum of the department. Requires complementary academic study and/or documentation. Available by petition only, on a credit, no-credit basis. Not open to postgraduate students. Interested students should contact the department office.
This course reflects on the nature of the discipline of Political Science. Synthesis and integration of coursework is the focus of this course. The seminar format facilitates discussions of theories, and research questions including those that cross boundaries between the disciplines. Analysis and policy essays along with a portfolio that demonstrates a set of competencies in political science.
Students are assigned to either public or private agencies involved in the public choice process. Supervision of internship is shared by agency director and the course instructor. Assigned readings and projects where appropriate. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Up to five units may be applied to elective requirements in the major. With departmental approval, additional units (up to a total of ten) may be used if the internship experience generating the additional units is in a different institutional setting or involves a significantly greater responsibility on the intern’s part.
The Cooperative Education program offers a sponsored learning experience in a work setting, integrated with a field analysis seminar. The field experience is contracted by the Cooperative Education office on an individual basis, subject to approval by the department. The field experience, including the seminar and reading assignments, is supervised by the cooperative education coordinator and the faculty liaison (or course instructor), working with the field supervisor. Students are expected to enroll in the course for at least two quarters. The determination of course credits, evaluation, and grading are the responsibility of the departmental faculty. Offered on a credit, no-credit basis only. (See statement on credit under PLSI 496, above.)
Consent of department.
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
(For course description, see listing under “Interdisciplinary Courses.”)
Investigation of an approved project leading to a written report. Project selected in conference with professor in area of major interests; regular meetings to be arranged with professor.