About Political Science at CSULB

The political science major is designed to help students learn to think seriously and carefully about politics while preparing for a wide variety of careers. The program provides a solid foundation in the traditional concerns of the discipline as well as a broad exposure to the various things that impinge upon and are affected by the political world. CSULB political science faculty come from a variety of backgrounds and bring an array of skills, methodologies and approaches to bear on their teaching and research. We focus not only on the six conventional subfields of political science - American politics, political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy and administration, and public law - but also on the connections among them.   

Students elect to major in political science as a preparation for such fields as: (1) college or university teaching, (2) law, (3) government career service, (4) foreign career service, (5) professional research, and (6) politics. In addition, majoring in political science is preparation for general education, good citizenship and active and meaningful participation in political life.

Pre-Law at CSULB

Political science continues to be one of the most popular and successful roads to law school and careers in the legal field. Combining a broad exposure to liberal arts with an in depth immersion in law, politics, and policy - plus opportunities to apprentice and intern in legal settings - the Political Science Department provides a head start to students interested in pursuing careers in law.

The Masters in Political Science

The MA in Political Science provides a rigorous graduate education in the discipline leading to careers in teaching, public service, and professional research. MA students emphasize one of four fields - American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory - and take courses in two of the remaining three fields. At the end of their course work, MA students write an MA thesis or take comprehensive exams in two of their three fields. For additional information, follow the link to "Graduate Programs."

Advising

Whatever you choose to concentrate in, make sure to consult with an undergraduate or graduate advisor to get help planning your program. Students interested in pre-law should consult with the department's Pre-law Advisor both to plan their undergraduate course of study and to better prepare for admission to law schools.