The Menlo College Political Science minor is designed for students with an interest in political institutions, the processes by which political decisions are made and the values, interests, and other influences that inform those decisions. It is designed for students with an interest in politics and government who seek a deeper understanding of how an individual can participate meaningfully in politics, and a deeper understanding of contemporary political issues, including national, state, and local problems, and their historical contexts.
Students who minor in political science will gain a sense of political agency, will develop their critical thinking skills, and will be able to write and speak cogently about governmental structures, processes, and policies. They will learn how to think critically about complex problems, and about how they can be involved in moving toward solutions to those problems. They will learn about the legal structure of state and national laws and the jurisprudence that guides lawmakers and public policy. Minoring in political science helps prepare students for a variety of careers (e.g., with government agencies, nonprofits, community organizations, lobbying firms, or as political communication or policy analysts) or careers in public service and elected office.
Students who wish to declare a minor in political science may do so as early as their sophomore year as long as they are in good academic standing. A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required. Students must complete two required courses (Tier One) and an additional two political science electives (Tier Two). Courses used to fulfill the minor may not be used to fulfill GE course requirements or toward an EJS minor. Students can also use independent directed research (IDR) courses to satisfy the requirements for the minor. All classes to fulfill the minor must be completed at Menlo College.
TIER ONE: REQUIRED COURSES (6 UNITS)
TIER TWO: CHOOSE TWO OF THE FOLLOWING COURSES: (6 UNITS)
