Taking Political Science classes at Mission is an ideal and fascinating part of acquiring a broad liberal education, and in career terms, the degree is highly versatile pointing the way in many vocational directions.The study of politics is much more than the study of governmental institutions; it is the study of philosophy and ethics, of international relations and economics, of peace and war, of other societies and political systems, of interest groups, and much more.
Why major in Political Science?The study of Political Science has value in several different ways. Artistotle described it as "the master science," because the political realm is all pervasive. It has tremendous impact on the entire range of human behavior and should therefore be thoroughly understood. In many careers, like business and law, an extensive training in politics can be most useful. And finally, Political Science, like its sister fields within the humanities and social sciences, should help any student develop crisp reasoning and analytical skills and build competence in oral and written communication.
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Political Science courses are transferable to virtually all U.S. colleges and universities including the CSU and UC systems, usually falling under Social Science credit. In addition, American Government (P.S. 001) fills the State's American Institutions requirement.
Associate Degrees
The Department's courses fill the general education requirements for Social and Behavioral Science (Series 1 and 2) and Lifelong Learning for an A.S. or A.A. degree.
And the courses also fill the Major requirements or recommended electives for specific A.A. and A.S. degrees in:
Mission College offers exciting and vibrant opportunities to any student, but particularly to students taking political science classes.
The DepartmentThe Political Science faculty offers a great range of expertise and assistance to students both in and out of the classroom. They hold advanced degrees from Stanford, Brandeis, Texas A&M, University of Missouri, American University, Idaho State University, San Jose State University, USC, Claremont, and others. And they are there to assist students with their course work, offer advice on the major, career options, transfer requirements and strategies.
Along with the Honor Society and Student Government, the department sponsers periodic forums on public issues:
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Student GovernmentAt Mission, in addition to our elected student body officers, we have a Student Senate where you can not only get credit and have a great time, but gain hands on political experience.
Several political internships, from a few weeks to a full semester, are available. You may choose the Governor's office, the state legislature, a city council, a mayor's office, or even choose to intern in Washington, D.C.
Although law schools do not require any particular undergraduate major for admission, they do want students who can think, read, and write well and have a solid understanding of the forces that shape the law. Political Science courses can help develop and sharpen these skills, putting you on the right track to law school.
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An analysis of the structure and functions of the American national government, with consideration of state and local governments.
Transferable to UC and CSU.
Meets the American Institutions requirement.
Comparative Government - P.S. 2
This course comparatively explores the government and politics of both the developed and developing nations of the world. Emphasis on contemporary political problems and the different ways states deal with them.
Transferable to UC and CSU.
Credit/No Credit Option
International Relations - P.S. 4
An introductions to world politics. Designed to provide a framework and the analytical skills to better understand the causes and effects of world events and the broader dynamics of the relations among nations from business to war.
Transferable to UC and CSU.
Credit/No Credit Option
Selected Topics - S.T. 99
Students can pursue and receive 1 to 3 credits for study in an area of politics not full covered by a course. Such projects are worked out in consultation with a faculty member in the desired field.
Credit/No Credit Option
Transferable
Politics of Race, Class & Gender - P.S. 6
This course is an introduction to the role that race, economic class, and gender have on American politics and currently play in American politics.
Credit/No Credit Option
Transferable
Introduction to Law and Legal System - P.S. 10
This course is an introduction to the role race, economic class and gender have an currently play in American politics.
Credit/No Credit Option
Transferable
For more information contact:
Department of Political Science
Mission College
3000 Mission College Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95054
Phone: (408) 988-2200
