Political Science Course Offerings

Open Classes for Spring 2022

Online

CourseDurationCampusRoomInstructor# to AddClass Meeting
POSC 10116 Weeks (1-29-5/25)San MarcosMD 320Bowman, Peter30436M/W 11:10 am-12:35 pm
POSC 10216 Weeks (1-29-5/25)OnlineOnlineCastaneda, Gary31510Online, Asynchronous

In Person

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Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degree requirements

Click on the link below to see the degree requirements and class sequence for a degree that covers the transfer requirements  for the CSU and UC colleges

POSC 100 Introduction to Political Science (3)
3 hours lecture
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC
Introduction to the scope and methods of political science; basic political concepts and policies; comparative government institutions, stressing the United States; an overview of political theories, international politics, and political economy.

POSC 101 Introduction to Politics and American Political Institutions (3)
3 hours lecture
Note: This course plus POSC 102 meets the State requirement in American History and Institutions.
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC
C-ID POLS 110 for POSC 101 and 102 combined
A study of the development of American political institutions, the basic features of the Constitution, and major court interpretations that affect our lives today.  Special attention will be given to understanding the historical origins of the US Political System from colonialism to reconstruction and the historical development of the civil rights revolution of various ethnic and gender groups, their historical struggles and efforts to overcome discrimination. This course will also address the electoral process and fundamental concepts of democracy, liberty, diversity, and equality.
This course, together with POSC 102, satisfies the American History and Institutions requirement.

POSC 102 Introduction to United States and California Governments (3)
3 hours lecture
Note: This course plus POSC 101 meets the State requirement in American History and Institutions.
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC
C-ID POLS 110 for POSC 101 and 102 combined
An examination of the US Constitution as it relates to the major institutions of government: the Congress, the Presidency, and the Supreme Court. It also emphasizes social, economic, and foreign policy so that students will have an understanding of the issues they face in the contemporary era. California history and government, another course component, will be compared and contrasted to the national political system.

POSC 110 Introduction to World Politics (3)
3 hours lecture
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC
Sources and uses of power in the arena of international politics. Causes and consequences of 20th century wars. The balance of power, history, geography, military and economic potential will be examined to show their impact on foreign policies of the United States, Europe, Russia, Japan, China and less developed states. Uses of military force, economic leverage, diplomacy, law, etc., discussed as approaches to limit war.

POSC 120 California Government (1)
1 hour lecture
Transfer acceptability: CSU
Intended for students who have completed the American History and Institutions requirements for the A.A. Degree or CSU General Education, but have not met the California Constitution requirement. Organization and operation of California state and local government. Stress upon citizen participation in the decision making process.

POSC 121 Introduction to Law (3)
3 hours lecture
Note: Cross listed as LS 121
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC – BUS 115, 116, 117, LS 121 combined: maximum credit, one course.
An introduction to law and the legal system. Includes an examination of the federal and state court system, criminal law, civil law, administrative law, and procedural law.

POSC 240 Civil Liberties and Procedures (3)
3 hours lecture
Note: Cross listed as LS 240
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC
The study of the Bill of Rights and Supreme Court decisions focusing on civil rights and liberties. This area of constitutional law exams the relationship between individuals and government. Emphasis is on minority issues such as privacy, personal freedom, political equality, and first amendment jurisprudence.

POSC 197 Political Science Topics (.5 – 4)
Units awarded in topics courses are dependent upon the number of hours required of the student. Any combination of lecture and/or laboratory may be scheduled by the department. Refer to Class Schedule.
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC – Credit determined by UC upon review of course syllabus.
Topics in Political Science. See Class Schedule for specific topic offered. Course title will designate subject covered.

POSC 295 Directed Study in Political Science (1, 2, 3)
3, 6, or 9 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: Approval of project or research by department chairperson.
Transfer acceptability: CSU; UC – Credit determined by UC upon review of course syllabus.
Independent study designed for advanced students who have demonstrated a proficiency in political science subjects and have the initiative to work independently on projects or research that does not fit into the context of regularly scheduled classes. Students will work under the personal supervision of an instructor.