B.A. in Political Science

Formally, political science is the study of political processes and political systems, the political behavior of individuals and groups, the structures of governments, public policy, theories of good government and political ethics. Political science employs both humanistic and scientific methods to understand the interrelationship of politics, the economy and society. At its heart political science is about how people work together, balancing the common good and their individual interests. Political science has much to say about how people work together in politics, the economy and society. Career Opportunities Majoring in political science at SFU can help you stand out in the job market and/or as you apply to graduate school or law school. Your research experience, internships, and skills will help to build career contacts and gain real-world experience. The political science major at SFU is a gateway to a variety of careers in law, government, politics, the non-profit sector, and the private sector including: Law and legal affairs Campaigns and elections Political parties Legislative affairs Community organizing Issue advocacy Interest group lobbying Public policy research & analysis Political research and analysis Federal law enforcement and homeland security Political journalism and media relation Executive management Marketing, survey research and public opinion polling Major Requirements: PLSC 102 - American National Government PLSC 103 - World Politics PLSC 211 - Democracy and Dictatorship: Comparative Politics in the Modern World or PLSC 221 - War and Peace: International Relations in the Modern World or PLSC 223 - U.S. Foreign Policy PLSC 301 - Constitutional Law or PLSC 302 - Legislative Process or PLSC 303 - The American Presidency or PLSC 305 - Civil Rights and Civil Liberties PLSC 313 - Ethics and Public Policy PLSC 433 - Foundations of Political Theory PLSC 499 - Seminar in Research Techniques Major Electives: Any 15 credits in Political Science not taken as required courses. Concentrations: Political Science, Political Communications Concentration, B.A. Pre-Law Studies Concentration