Political Science

As a Political Science major, students will work with experts in American government, international and comparative politics, and policymaking to explore important, relevant questions to their academic and professional development. Some of these questions include:

  • Which skills will prepare students to serve as leaders in their communities, be it in local politics or national governance?
  • How can the study of law make students effective citizens and advocates for supporting their fellow citizens?
  • What can students learn about effective governance and policymaking by studying countries from across the world?
  • How can students best understand modern challenges to society, including environmental degradation, war, inequality, and terrorism, and apply this knowledge in order to make meaningful contributions in addressing them?
  • What practices and processes help ensure a fair and just society for all individuals?

Through rigorous coursework, individual research projects, and practical experiences, students will not only be prepared for an ever-changing job market, but also develop a passion for politics — ready to participate in the vital work required of democratic citizens in the twenty-first century!

Graduates have gone on to contribute to a varied set of professions, including local, state, and national government, law, non-profit work, advocacy, academia, and international business.

The department offers several degree options that offer a rich study of topics, such as law, global politics, and campaigning, while also permitting the flexibility to add double-majors and minors from other departments:

  • Political Science, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Global Politics, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Practical Politics: Campaigning, Lobbying, and Policymaking, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Pre-Law, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Public Policy, B.A.

The minimum GPA for a political science degree is 2.50 with a minimum grade of "C" in all upper-division political science and related upper-division coursework. Additional flexibility in the degree program is offered through internships, and opportunities to work with professors in developing independent study courses in areas where the department may not offer regular coursework.

In addition, departmental minors that allow for an in-depth, focused study on key topics, including :

  • Campaigns and Lobbying
  • Intelligence and Security Analysis
  • Law and Legal Studies

The required GPA for a minor is 2.50.

POLS 1010 Studies in American Government

Description: Special study in American government to allow transfer students to fulfill general education requirements as established by Regents' policy. Offered for variable credit, 1-2 credit hours, maximum of 2 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-2

Contact hours: Contact: 1-2 Other: 1-2

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 1113 American Government

Description: Organization, processes and functions of the national government of the United States. Satisfies, with HIST 1103 or 1483 or 1493, the State Regents requirement of six credit hours of American history and American government before graduation. Previously offered as POLS 1013.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 2000 Topics in American Politics (S)

Description: Introductory examination of timely topics and issues in American Politics. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 2010 Topics in International Relations (I)

Description: Introductory examination of timely topics and issues in International Relations. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 2013 Introduction to International Relations (S)

Description: Analysis and explanation of the political, economic, and social relationships that exist between countries. Broad topics include major actors in international relations, the role of power on the global stage, interstate and civil conflict, cooperation, and economic security. The assumptions of major international relations theories, such as realism and liberalism, are explained. Previously offered as POLS 3013.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 2020 Topics in Public Law (S)

Description: Introductory examination of timely topics and issues in Public Law. Maybe repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 2023 The Individual And The Law

Description: Introduction to the U.S. Constitution, legal reasoning, legal research techniques, and topical issues of U.S. public law.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 2030 Topics in Public Policy & Administration

Description: Introductory examination of timely topics and issues in Public Policy and Administration. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 2033 Introduction to Public Administration

Description: Public administration, including administration, administrative organization, decision-making, governmental public relations and administrative responsibilities.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 2110 Topics in Comparative Politics (I)

Description: Introductory examination of timely topics and issues in Comparative Politics. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 2113 Introduction to Comparative Politics (IS)

Description: A study of the domestic politics, society, and economies in countries around the world.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 2213 Fundamentals of Political Science

Description: This course provides an overview of Political Science as a field of study, and it provides students with basic research literacy and other skills essential to success as a Political Science major.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 2313 Social Justice Politics (D)

Description: This course examines race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality, religion, age, ability, and in a number of realms, particularly the political. Specific social justice issues discussed include immigration reform, religious accommodations in the workplace, the gender gap In wages and political office holding, income and wealth inequality, racial and ethnic discrimination, same-sex marriage, ageism and disability access.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity

POLS 2890 Honors Experience in Political Science

Prerequisites: Honors Program participation and concurrent enrollment in a designated Political Science course.

Description: A supplemental Honors experience in Political Science to partner concurrently with designated Political Science course(s). This course adds a different intellectual dimension to the designated course(s). Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1

Contact hours: Lecture: 1 Contact: 1

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Honors Credit

POLS 2993 Honors Tutorial in Political Science

Prerequisites: POLS 1113. Honors standing, and invitation by head of department.

Description: For the special needs of the sophomore-level honors student majoring in political science who wishes to study individualized topics at an accelerated pace in a tutorial format. After mastering basic principles in an area of interest the student will conduct independent research under close faculty supervision and prepare a report or reports.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3003 The Soviet Union: History, Society and Culture(IS)

Description: A comprehensive view of the Soviet Union, stressing those issues in the political, economic, technological, geographical and cultural spheres which are most relevant to the current situation. Accessible to beginning undergraduates. Same course as HIST 3003 & RUSS 3003.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 3033 International Law

Description: International laws between countries arise from customary law, treaties, and other international agreements. This course examines international law surrounding international diplomacy, conflict, organizations, and the international political reasons for the creation, compliance, and violation of such laws.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3053 Introduction to Central Asia Studies (IS)

Description: A comprehensive view of newly-emerged Central Asian states examining the history, politics, economics, geography, and culture of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan as reflected in their thoughts, religion, literature, and architecture, in the past, and the strategic importance of their natural wealth for the present and future. Same course as GEOG 3053, GLST 3053, HIST 3053 & RUSS 3053.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3090 Teaching Practicum

Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.

Description: For outstanding students. Students will work with a faculty instructor and assist in many aspects of teaching including guest lecturing, offering study sessions, office hours, among other duties as determined by instructor. May involve meetings and written paper(s). Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-6

Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3100 Political Science Internship

Prerequisites: Consent of department.

Description: Internship education experience in a specific subfield in the discipline of political science. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-6

Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3101 Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature

Description: OSU Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature provides students with hands on experience in the legislative process. It is a mock legislature with the intended goal of passing bills and learning parliamentary procedure. Students learn how to research and draft legislation, build coalitions, and debate the merits of their bills. Participation in O.I.L. gives students a behind the scenes look at how state government conducts business. The result is academic learning in a real world setting. This course is a pass/fail grade. Offered for fixed credit, 1 credit hour.

Credit hours: 1

Contact hours: Lecture: 1 Contact: 1

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3103 Introduction to Political Inquiry

Prerequisites: Sophomore, Junior and Senior standing.

Description: The scope and methods of political science. Scientific methodology applied to political phenomena, hypothesis, measurement, literature review, research designs, introductory data analysis and writing in political science. Previously offered as POLS 4003.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3123 Russian & Eurasian Politics (I)

Description: An overview of the major political, social, and economic challenges facing Russia and its neighbors.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 3143 European Politics (I)

Description: An overview of the major political, social, and economic challenges facing European countries.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 3163 African Politics (I)

Description: An overview of the major political, social, and economic challenges facing African countries.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 3193 Latin American Politics (IS)

Description: An overview of the major political, social, and economic challenges facing Latin American countries.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 3223 Asian Politics

Description: An overview of the major political, social, and economic challenges facing Asian countries.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3313 Middle Eastern Politics

Description: An overview of the major political, social, and economic challenges facing Middle Eastern countries.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3353 Political Parties

Description: An examination of political parties, including the role of parties in elections and government, how parties have changed through time, why there are only two major parties in the United States, and what factors influence how parties behave.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3423 Voting and Elections

Description: Electoral systems and their relationship to political development, political socialization, issue emergence, voting patterns and electoral cycles.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3443 Pol Campaigns And Candidacy

Description: Planning, fundraising, targeting, public opinion, support operations, voter contact, the mass media and candidate activities. Previously offered as POLS 3414.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3453 U.S. Congress

Description: The power and organization of legislatures, as well as the selection and behavior of legislators. Special attention given to the U.S. Congress.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3483 The American Presidency

Description: The politics of presidential selection, removal and succession; formal and informal powers of the president; relations with Congress, the national judiciary and national executive branch; proposed reforms and the vice-presidency.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3493 Public Policy

Prerequisites: Any one of POLS 1013, POLS 2033, ECON 1113.

Description: Identification of policy options open to policy makers and examination of measurements and rationales underlying governmental programs. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5613.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3513 Public Opinion and Polling

Description: The nature of public opinion. Public opinion polling, the factors influencing opinion formation, and the effects of public opinion on policy and policy makers.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3523 Money, Media And Politics

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: Techniques used by successful candidates for elective office to present their positions to the voting public. Beginning with the basic elements of fundraising exploration of current campaign finance laws, funding techniques and campaign budgeting. Message development, media production and ad placement. Preparation of a fundraising strategy.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3533 Lobbying: the Art of Influence and Manipulation

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: An exploration of how political scientists understand organized interests and their lobbying and grassroots activities. Traverses topics such as the origin of interests, collective action problems, lobbying techniques, and grassroots activism. Explores political action in multiple venues. Discusses the influence of groups in government.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3613 State and Local Government

Description: Political processes, government and administration of American states, cities and counties; special emphasis on Oklahoma.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3663 Introduction to Political Thought

Description: The teachings of the three lasting traditions of Western political thought: classical, Christian and modern.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3683 Politics in Contemporary Film

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: The effect of politics on contemporary film. Exploration of the often subtle political imagery and symbolism contained in film.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3893 Terrorism & Counterterrorism

Description: This course examines the definition, causes, and consequences of terrorist activity. Special emphasis will also be given to key domestic and international counterterrorism responses.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3953 Minorities in the American Political System (DS)

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: Examination of mass and elite level behavior of minorities in the contemporary U.S. political system.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity, Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 3963 State Courts and the Bar

Description: This course will cover the various constraints that exist within the decision-making outcomes of state courts, as well as the institutional biases found within state run criminal justice systems. It looks at the increasingly partisan nature of state court election cycles and the contemporary status of the legal academy, the Bar, and the economics of law firms. It will be particularly useful to those students thinking about continuing their education with the pursuit of a law degree.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 3973 Race, Politics and Sports (D)

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: Historical, as well as the contemporary relationship, between race, politics and sports in the U.S. political system.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity

POLS 3983 Courts and Judicial Process (S)

Description: The American judiciary and legal process from a political perspective with particular emphasis on judicial organization and powers, recruitment, fact-finding, decision-making, impact of decisions, the legal profession and relations among courts. Oklahoma judicial organization.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 3993 Legal Research And Analysis

Prerequisites: POLS 2023 or HONR 2013.

Description: Introduction to legal research methods, including state and federal reported cases, digests, annotated codes, state and federal administrative regulations, and computerized legal research, as well as an introduction to legal reasoning and analysis and the preparation of case briefs and memoranda.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4000 Advanced Topics in American Politics

Prerequisites: POLS 1113 or consent of instructor.

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in American politics, including American political behavior and political leadership. May be repeated with different topics. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5710. Offered for variable credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 9 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4010 Advanced Topics in International Relations

Prerequisites: POLS 2013 or POLS 2113 or consent of instructor.

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in International Relations. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5210.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4013 American Foreign Policy

Description: An introduction to the history of America’s foreign policy (with an emphasis on foreign relations since WWII), the dominant themes and goals of American foreign policy throughout time, contemporary issues that face the United States, and how foreign policy is made and enforced. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5153.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4020 Advanced Topics in Comparative Politics

Prerequisites: POLS 2013 or POLS 2113 or consent of instructor.

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in Comparative Politics. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5410.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4023 Security Analysis and Briefing

Description: The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the world of intelligence analysis. Students will gain a basic understanding of the different types of intelligence, the way intelligence is analyzed, and the ways that analysts present their findings to the consumer. The course will develop critical thinking techniques and apply them to both hypothetical and real-world problems with a focus on the techniques used by professionals to present the results of their analyses. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5223.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4033 Civil Wars (I)

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: This course focuses on civil wars, insurgencies, and other conflicts that occur within the borders of countries. The course intends to present current theories and understanding of civil wars that can inform the examination and explanation of such conflicts, including why conflicts start, how conflicts end, the goals and strategies of rebel groups and governments, and the long-term effects of conflict are critical to forming domestic and international policies that provide peaceful alternatives to violence.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 4043 Global Political Economy

Description: An introduction to the major players, challenges, and theories shaping the modern global economy. Topics include economic development, globalization, trade, and foreign investment. May not be used for degree credit with INTL 5043. Previously offered as POLS 3043.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4053 War And World Politics (I)

Description: Students are introduced to the scientific study of war. Topics include why countries engage in conflict, the conduct of war, the ways in which wars end, and how peace is maintained between former rivals.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension

POLS 4100 Problems of Government, Politics and Public Policy

Description: Special problem areas of government, politics and public policy concentrating on topics not covered in other departmental course offerings. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5100. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-6

Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4113 International Organization

Description: The last one hundred years have seen the rise of international organizations. This class explores the reasons for this proliferation, as well as the impact of organizations such as the United Nations, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, etc. for the conduct of international relations. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5163.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4223 Social Movements

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: A study of the origins, activities, and impact of political and social movements. Students examine these theories and concepts by learning about several contemporary movements from other countries and the United States.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4333 Improving Democracy: How to Reform Government by the People (S)

Description: This course encourages students to think critically and creatively about political institutions in order to improve democracy. This course gives students the opportunity to explore prominent political reform proposals and their merits, as well as an opportunity to practice skills such as the ability to evaluate complex organizations in order to improve outcomes.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 4353 Administrative Law

Description: Legal powers, limits, and procedures of administrative agencies with emphasis on federal and state administrative procedure acts. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5713.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4363 Environmental Law And Policy

Description: Statutory law, case law, and administrative practices relating to regulation of the environment including environmental impact statements, pollution, public lands, and preservation law. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5633.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4403 Urban Politics and Management

Description: Problems of governing and managing American metropolitan areas. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5323.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4413 Government Budgeting

Description: The politics, planning and administration of government budgets. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5320.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4453 Public Personnel Administration

Description: Problems, processes, and procedures of public personnel administration. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5333.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4553 American Political Thought

Description: A survey of the major developments in American political thought from the Colonial period to the present, followed by a topical analysis of important recent theoretical developments in political science.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4573 Democratic Theory

Description: Investigates the origins, development, and continuing challenges of theories of democratic government, with particular emphasis on the American political tradition. Topics include citizenship, accountability, voting and elections, federalism, and institutional design.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4593 Natural Resources and Environmental Policy

Description: Current issues in the law, politics and administration of energy, land, water, mineral and other natural resources policy with particular emphasis on relations to environmental policies and law. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 5620.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4623 Oklahoma Politics (S)

Prerequisites: POLS 1113.

Description: Introduction to Oklahoma Politics. Topics include the evolution of Oklahoma political institutions; the struggle to shape the Oklahoma political culture with special attention to the role of race and woman suffrage; political issues; the structure of Oklahoma political institutions at the state and local levels; and elections.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences

POLS 4653 Contemporary Political Thought

Description: An analysis of 19th and 20th century political ideas, with emphasis on the rise and fall of ideologies along side controversies over relativism, positivism, pragmatism, and resurgent religious faiths.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4670 Advanced Topics in Political Theory

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in classic, modern, or American political theory. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4693 Gender and Politics

Description: Changing role of women in government and politics. Voting behavior, public opinion, women in government, and the women’s movement.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4903 Senior Capstone Seminar

Prerequisites: Political Science major with Junior or Senior standing and completion of POLS 3103 with a grade of "C" or better.

Description: This class is intended to be the culmination of a student's undergraduate study of Political Science, emphasizing skills essential to students' future success. Students will read and discuss advanced readings in the field of political science and complete a significant empirical research project.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4963 U.S. Constitution: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties

Prerequisites: POLS 2023 or POLS 3983 recommended.

Description: Development of principles of constitutional law by the Supreme Court concerning individual and group rights, with particular emphasis on equal protection of the laws concepts in matters of race, gender, wealth, citizenship, legislative reapportionment and voting rights, government employment and affirmative action programs. Legal research techniques.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4973 U.S. Constitution: Separation of Powers

Prerequisites: POLS 2023 or POLS 3983 recommended.

Description: This course will cover the constitutional law governing the structure of the United States government, including such subjects as the power of the federal government, the separation of powers within the federal government, and the relationship between the federal government and the states (including substantive and due process rights under the Fourteenth Amendment).

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4980 Advanced Topics in Public Law

Prerequisites: POLS 2023 and (POLS 3983 or POLS 3993) or consent of instructor.

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in Public Law. May be repeated with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4990 Independent Study

Description: Application of major relevant theoretical perspectives to selected case studies of political problems and issue areas. Theories and attendant case studies selected by visiting faculty members. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-3

Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 4993 Political Science Honors Thesis

Prerequisites: Departmental invitation, senior standing, Honors Program participation.

Description: A guided reading and research program ending with an honors thesis under the direction of a faculty member, with second faculty reader and oral examination. Required for graduation with departmental honors in political science.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3

Levels: Undergraduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

General Education and other Course Attributes: Honors Credit

POLS 5000 Thesis

Description: Thesis. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-6

Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5013 Quantitative Methods

Prerequisites: POLS 5103.

Description: Required of all graduate students. Fundamental methodological issues in the scientific study of politics. Logic of science, principles of research design and computer data manipulation and analysis.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5020 Creative Component

Description: Individually supervised research. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5023 Foundation of Political Science

Description: Overview of the foundational works, theories and approaches that define the discipline of political science and serve as bridges across its subfields.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5030 Internship in Public Administration and Government

Description: Individually supervised internships in administrative and governmental career areas. Paper required. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-6

Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5040 Readings in Politics, Public Policy or Public Administration

Prerequisites: Consent of supervising professor.

Description: Readings in the student's major area of study. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-6

Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5100 Directed Study

Description: Directed study for master's level students. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4100. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-3

Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5103 Research Design

Prerequisites: Graduate standing.

Description: Overview of research design, including conceptualization and operationalization, literature review, deductive and inductive theorizing, hypothesis testing, quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5113 Seminar in Public Program Evaluation

Description: Methodology of evaluation research in public programs. Emphasis will be placed on designing and interpreting evaluative studies rather than the mastery of particular mathematical, statistical or computer skills.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5133 Politics and Political Economy in the European Union

Description: The institutions and policy-making process of the European Union (EU) and the theoretical traditions in the study of European integration. The institutional form of the EU and the type of European policy that is emerging.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5143 Social and Political Perspectives in Europe

Description: Examination of the current and historical social, cultural and political landscapes of European societies. Material related to identity politics, citizenship, democratization and collective memory feature regularly in the course.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5153 American Foreign Policy

Description: An introduction to the history of America’s foreign policy (with an emphasis on foreign relations since WWII), the dominant themes and goals of American foreign policy throughout time, contemporary issues that face the United States, and how foreign policy is made and enforced. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4013.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5163 International Organization

Description: The last one hundred years have seen the rise of international organizations. This class explores the reasons for this proliferation, as well as the impact of organizations such as the United Nations, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, etc. for the conduct of international relations. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4113.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5203 ProSeminar in International Relations

Description: A general survey intended to introduce students to major theoretical paradigms, applications, and debates in the field of international relations.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5210 Topics Seminar in International Relations

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in International Relations. May be repeated up to 6 hours with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4010.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5213 Seminar in the International Political Economy

Prerequisites: Graduate standing.

Description: Research on the mechanics and theories of interaction between economic and political phenomena. Same course as INTL 5213.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5223 Security Analysis and Briefing

Description: The purpose of this course is to provide students with the basic tools used by intelligence analysis. In the course, we will discuss the psychology of intelligence, how to nurture analytical creativity, methods of intelligence analysis, and ways that analysts present their findings to the consumer. We will also engage in several exercises involving both hypothetical and real-world problems that will allow you to develop your critical thinking skills. Finally, we will create an intelligence product that brings together all the skills learned in the course. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4023.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5253 Conflict Management and Peacebuilding

Description: An introduction to the tactics, strategies, and tools of conflict management. Student will engage with current research in this field, with a focus on understanding of what works - and what does not - in resolving civil wars and communal violence.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5273 Diplomacy

Description: Overview of the theoretical and practical dimensions of diplomacy. This class explores the history of diplomacy, its place within the study of international relations, the rise of diplomatic norms, the evolution of diplomacy, and the fragility and art of negotiation.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5313 Public Management

Description: Introduction to the general principles of management as they are applied in the public sector. Systems theory, organization design, and techniques of supervision.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5320 Seminar in Public Budgeting and Finance

Description: Major processes and practices involved in governmental budgeting in the United States at national, state and local level. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4413. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5323 Urban Politics and Management

Description: Introduction to the concepts, processes and techniques of managing urban political systems to include problems of leadership, decision-making, general management and group behavior. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4403.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5333 Seminar in Public Personnel Administration

Description: Current practices, problems and issues in public sector personnel administration, including merit system, civil service reform collective bargaining, and equal opportunity and affirmative action. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4453.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5353 Seminar in Design, Structure and Processes of Public Organizations

Description: Administration in the public sector, stressing traditional and emerging organization structures. Awareness of administrative processes and environment that include program design, implementation, and administrative accountability.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5363 Public Sector Dispute Resolution

Prerequisites: Senior or graduate standing.

Description: Labor relations and employment issues in the public sector, and the various methods for resolving government personnel conflicts without resort to violence or litigation. Focus on labor law, employment law and Alternative Dispute Resolution as they apply to government employment.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5393 Politics of Disaster

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5403 ProSeminar in Comparative Politics

Prerequisites: Graduate standing and 5303 or consent of instructor.

Description: Situates disaster phases in the political context at the local, national, and international levels. Examines research on specific events and their interactive effects between the political system and various phases of disaster.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5410 Topics Seminar in Comparative Politics

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in Comparative Politics. May be repeated up to 6 hours with different topics. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4020. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5510 Seminar in Political Behavior

Description: Examination of contemporary theories of political behavior with emphasis on empirical studies. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-3

Contact hours: Contact: 3-18 Other: 3-18

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5513 Seminar in Political Psychology

Description: Examination of psychological theories as they pertain to political behavior, including attitude change, political cognition, public opinion and decision-making.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5613 Public Policy Analysis

Description: Analytical methods for evaluating public policies and examination of the public processes including policy design, implementation and evaluation. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 3493.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5620 Seminar in Natural Resource Policy, Law and Administration

Description: Analysis of the legal and public policy aspects of environmental regulation, including special emphasis on one of three components: environmental law, administrative law, and national resource law and policy. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4593. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 9 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5633 Practical Environmental Compliance

Description: Environmental decision-making, reading and understanding environmental statutes and regulations, and effectively dealing with the EPA. Environmental permitting and enforcement, policies and procedures. Review of hazardous waste regulations with emphasis on ground water problems. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4363.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5643 Regulatory Risk Analysis

Description: Risk-based decision making, government's risk analysis paradigm, risk analysis policy, and social aspects of risk assessment. Review of the RCRA corrective action, CERCLA (Superfund) remedial action, and NEPA environmental impact study programs.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5673 Understanding and Responding to Terrorism

Description: Exploration of the experience of non-state terrorism in the U.S. and Western European democracies in the late 20th century. Understanding terrorism as a political, social, and historical phenomenon; the current and future threat of terrorism, both foreign and domestic; governmental choices in responding to terrorism in democratic societies and; U.S. anti-terrorism policies and considerations that emergency responders face in preparing for and responding to terrorist incidents.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5703 ProSeminar in American Politics

Description: Overview of a wide range of classic works in American institutions and Political Behavior. It examines not only the classic works in each area of these subfields, but a sampling of current work being done in the field.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5710 Topics Seminar in American Politics

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in American Politics. May be repeated up to 6 hours with different topics. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4000. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5713 Seminar in Public Law

Description: Literature of public law in the United States. Overview of the approaches that shape the theoretical and empirical contours of the public law field and contribute to multidisciplinary law and social science studies. May not be used for degree credit with POLS 4353.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5720 Topics in Political Science

Description: In-depth examination of critical topics and issues in Political Science. May be repeated up to 6 hours with different topics. Offered for fixed credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5743 Seminar in Political Communication

Description: Examination of recent theories within politics and the media, including effects of media on opinion, role of media as a political institution and the role of media during elections.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5810 Seminar in Women and Politics

Prerequisites: Graduate standing.

Description: Research on a variety of topics concerning women and politics, including women's movements, women and elections, and public opinion. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 9 credit hours.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 5943 Complex Emergencies

Prerequisites: Graduate Standing.

Description: This course examines complex emergencies from an emergency management perspective. We will look at the collapse of governance, the causes of armed conflict, food insecurity, infectious disease, natural disasters, and so on and examine specific cases in detail. Furthermore, we will look at how the international community responds to these crises, and which agencies are involved in relief efforts. We will apply the traditional four phases of disaster management these situations.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 6000 Doctoral Dissertation Research

Prerequisites: Consent of major professor.

Description: Research for PhD dissertation. Offered for variable credit, 1-12 credit hours, maximum of 60 credit hours.

Credit hours: 1-12

Contact hours: Contact: 1-12 Other: 1-12

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Independent Study

Department/School: Political Science

POLS 6013 Qualitative Methods

Prerequisites: POLS 5103.

Description: Qualitative methods for collecting and analyzing data from the social sciences.

Credit hours: 3

Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3

Levels: Graduate

Schedule types: Lecture

Department/School: Political Science

The Department of Political Science offers a Master of Arts degree in political science.

Candidates for the Master of Arts degree in political science complete a foundation of 15 hours of study and devote their remaining hours to specialization in two of the following areas:  American politics, comparative politics and international relations, with further specialization within these areas also possible. The plan is designed to prepare professional political scientists for careers in research and teaching, as well as administrative and policy positions in local, state or national government and international affairs.

For more information, go to our website polsci.okstate.edu.

Admission Requirements for Master’s Degree Programs

Any student having a bachelor's degree with an overall 3.00 grade-point average (on a 4.00 scale) may be admitted as a student in full standing. Those with less than an overall 3.00 grade-point average are considered for admission on a probationary basis. All graduate students in the MA program would benefit from completion of an undergraduate statistics class. A GRE exam score is required for the MA program.

Degree Requirements for the MA in Political Science

In addition to the general requirements of the Graduate College, requirements for the Master of Arts degree in political science are listed below.

  1. A minimum of 33 credit hours in political science or closely related courses. These include:
    Research Methods and Foundations of Political Science
    POLS 5103Research Design3
    POLS 5013Quantitative Methods3
    Proseminars
    POLS 5703ProSeminar in American Politics3
    POLS 5403ProSeminar in Comparative Politics3
    POLS 5203ProSeminar in International Relations3
    Electives
    Select at least six hours in two of the following subfields:12
    American Politics
    Comparative Politics
    International Relations
    Select six hour thesis6
    A minimum of 21 hours of political science graduate seminars (seminars numbered 5000 or above) is required. The student must successfully defend the thesis orally before the faculty committee.
  2. Minimum 3.00 grade-point average, with only one grade of "C" allowed.

Professors: Seth McKee, PhD; Jeanette Mendez, PhD; Eve Ringsmuth, PhD; Howard Sanborn, PhD (head)
Associate Professors: Danny M. Adkison, EdD; Joshua Jansa, PhD; Jason Kirksey, PhD; Stephen Nemeth, PhD; Peter Rudloff, PhD; Erica Townsend-Bell, PhD
Teaching Associate Professors: Holley Hansen, PhD
Assistant Professors: Brooke Coe, PhD; Ryan DeTamble, PhD; Stephen Graves, PhD; Cole Harvey, PhD; Joshua Landry, PhD; Christine C. Bird, PhD, JD
Emeritus Professors: Anthony E. Brown, PhD; Robert Darcy, PhD (Regents Professor); James A. Davis, PhD; Robert E. England, PhD; William J. Focht, PhD; Rebekah Herrick, PhD; Joel M. Jenswold, PhD (emeritus); James J. Lawler, PhD, JD; Robert L. Spurrier, Jr., PhD