Politics and the Art of Governing in the 21st Century

Are you interested in American politics, the law, international relations, issues of representation, as well as the intersection of race and gender in politics? Want to learn more about how governments allocate power and resources? If so, you should consider studying political science.

Political Science examines how policies are made within and among nations in the contemporary world. Students in Political Science learn to analyze, describe, and predict political behavior. The discipline is a science, but the study of people and power also requires an understanding of both rational and sentimental behaviors in politics.

CSU Bakersfield offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree in Political Science. Within the major, there are emphases and related curriculum programs designed to advance specialized career objectives:

  • Pre-Law
    • Learn essential concepts, theories, and research methods vital for attorneys and professionals working with common and statutory law.
  • Power and Justice
    • Explore fundamental concepts and methods of studying the relationships between individuals, groups, and systems that shape social and economic opportunities, with a focus on U.S. institutions at national, regional, state, and local levels.
  • Global Politics
    • Study the complex interactions between U.S. domestic politics and global relations, examining both state and non-state actors, including interest groups, NGOs, and paramilitary organizations.
  • American Politics
    • Learn the foundational concepts, theories, and methods of American government, while developing research, analytical, and communication skills related to government and policy applications.
  • History-Social Science Teacher Preparation Program
    *A curriculum approved by Commission on Teacher Credentialing for high school teaching
"The political science department creates an amazing community of both students and professors. As a Political Science major, I learned the importance of education and intellectual passion. My professors taught me how to think critically and how to break through intellectual barriers as well as personal struggles."

Drey Hicks
B.A. 2012

CSUB Runnerhead logo Department of Political Science

California State University, Bakersfield
9001 Stockdale Highway, 26 BDC
Bakersfield, CA 93311-1022

(661) 654-2141
Location: Business Development Center 248A - Maps