Clubs & Organizations
The Department of Political Science at CSU Bakersfield proudly supports three dynamic student organizations led by faculty members: the Political Science Club, the Global Affairs Club, and the Pre-Law Society. These clubs provide students with invaluable opportunities for networking, skill-building, and real-world experience, helping them to thrive academically and professionally.
These clubs offer an excellent opportunity to enhance your academic journey while building connections within the campus community and beyond.
The Global Affairs Student Club is home to CSUB’s Model United Nations program, offering students an engaging platform to deepen their understanding of world events and their impact on society. The club seeks to heighten awareness of both historical and current international issues, including those that may be underrepresented in mainstream media. Through its activities, Global Affairs aims to enrich campus life by fostering political, social, economic, and educational discussions relevant to all members of the CSUB community.
In addition to its flagship Model UN program, the Global Affairs Club actively promotes involvement in various international relations events, encouraging students to explore critical global topics such as food policy, gender issues, and conflict in regions like the Middle East. These areas of focus complement the academic curriculum, particularly for political science majors who aspire to become informed leaders in fields such as government, politics, and education.
With Dr. Dirk Horn as its advisor, the club offers a dynamic space for student engagement and leadership development, equipping members with the tools to navigate and influence the complex global landscape.
Political Science Club
The Political Science Club focuses on current political issues. Some such issues are
highly partisan and visible to the general public, others less so. In recent years
the Club has sponsored forums on issues as diverse as political ideology (including
libertarianism as an alternative to liberals and conservatives) and U.S. intelligence
activities as threats to personal privacy. The Club typically meets for Friday lunch
to discuss these issues and make decisions about which to bring to a public program.
Dr. Michael Ault is Club advisor.
Dedicated to students interested in pursuing legal careers, this club provides resources such as LSAT preparation, law school application guidance, and guest lectures from professionals in the legal field.
Center for Social Justice
Center for Social JusticeModel United Nations
The CSUB Model United Nations team provides an exciting platform for students to engage in an academic competition centered around diplomacy, international relations, and the workings of the United Nations. Known as MUN, this program gives students the opportunity to travel to college campuses across the country, compete in conferences, and network with other schools participating in Model United Nations.MUN offers CSUB students a unique chance to develop critical skills in diplomacy and international policy while building a network of professional contacts. The experience has opened numerous doors for past participants, with many alumni finding careers in the U.S. government, the United Nations, and various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
During MUN conferences, students not only compete in simulation activities but also have the opportunity to attend career fairs, where internships with prominent NGOs and U.S. agencies are often secured. Additionally, participants benefit from a series of professional talks and career-building events, where they receive invaluable advice on careers in international affairs and related fields.
The CSUB MUN team prepares students to step into global leadership roles and fosters a deep understanding of international relations, equipping them for future success in a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Dirk Horn is the faculty instructor and program advisor.
Scholarly Activity
Pi Sigma Alpha
Pi Sigma Alpha was founded in 1920 at the University of Texas for the purpose of bringing together students and faculty interested in the study of government and politics. Other major universities applied and established chapters, and growth in the society was gradual throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Today the members of Pi Sigma Alpha work in education and government in every State of the Union and most other nations. Chapters must conform to the honor society's rules about the degree program and eligibility of initiates. At CSUB Dr. Michael Ault advises the faculty and students and submits the applications of qualified students in the spring of each academic year. The initiation fee covers cost of the honor cords and pins, which are presented at an initiation and reception to which family and friends are invited. The honor cords themselves are also worn over the student's gown at commencement.Dr. Charles McCall Merit
Dr. Charles McCall was the Founding Chair of the Political Science Department when
California State College, Bakersfield opened in 1970. Due to his generosity, the Department
will be able to award scholarships based on academic merit.
In addition to the scholarships funded by the late Dr. McCall, the Department is raising
funds for additional awards to students and their faculty mentors, which will facilitate
research, applied experience, and career development.
Dr. Stanley Clark
Dr. Stanley Clark dedicated over 40 years to the Department of Political Science at CSUB, exemplifying a profound commitment to education, community engagement, and mentorship. As a founding member of the department, Dr. Clark has held numerous leadership roles, including Chair and Director of various programs, while actively contributing to organizations that uplift the community. His unwavering support for students and faculty alike, mentoring new educators and guiding students towards their passions, demonstrates his genuine care for their success. Even in retirement, Dr. Clark continued to impact the lives of many, embodying the spirit of service and excellence that this scholarship aims to honor.