Course Descriptions

Political Science - POLSCI
Course Classification

Courses numbered 1-49 — are baccalaureate level (transfer) courses. Courses thus numbered are transferable to four- year institutions. Agriculture courses are designed to parallel the work taught in similar courses at California Polytechnic State University or at California State University, Fresno but may not carry the same number.

Courses numbered 50-99 — are associate degree level courses. Courses thus numbered are primarily for the student who does not plan to continue his/her education beyond the community college level; however, occupational education courses may transfer according to articulation agreements. Complete information on articulation is available through the Counseling Center.

Courses Numbered 100-201 — are non-transfer and are non-degree applicable; they are skill building or remedial.

Abbreviations for Degree, Non-Degree, and Transfer Courses

The following abbreviations designate degree applicable, transfer, and non-degree applicable courses:
(AA) Associate Degree
(CSU) Transferable to California State University System
(UC) Transferable to University of California System
(NDA) Non-Degree Applicable

  • POLSCI-001
  • American Government
  • Credit(s) 3

American Government
POLSCI 001 is an introductory study of American government at the national, state and local level. Included are the institutions, processes and policies of the United States and of California. This course satisfies, in part, the American history and institutions requirements for CSU.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
POLS 110
  • POLSCI-002
  • Comparative Government
  • Credit(s) 3

Comparative Government
POLSCI 002 comparative analysis of other countries' political systems. We will study other countries' history, political institutions, processes and policies with an emphasis on contemporary problems.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Prerequisite(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
POLS 130
  • POLSCI-004
  • Intro to International Relatio
  • Credit(s) 3

Introduction to International Relations
POLSCI 004 will study how nation states interact with each other in an international system; through the use of various governmental organizations nation states will try to gain advantage over other nation-states to become the hegemony. Students analyze theories of international relations, balance of power, and basic concepts of politics around the world.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s); ENG 051A:
P/NP
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
POLS 140
  • POLSCI-005
  • Introduction to Political Theo
  • Credit(s) 3

Introduction to Political Theory
POLSCI 005 will examine the philosophies of great political thinkers from the great Greek thinkers of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle to Locke and Weber. An in-depth analysis of human nature and acquisition of power will be covered. This class will delve deep into Plato's cave to discover the thinking of these great political philosophers.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
POLS 120
  • POLSCI-010
  • Modern Politics
  • Credit(s) 3

Modern Politics
POLSCI 010 is designed to introduce the student into the field of Political Science. The course will have a broad overview of political theories, the nature, power and development of government. Students will apply political science methodologies to the different fields of political science such as how the individual will interact with the state within the sub field of political theory.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
POLS 150
  • POLSCI-020
  • Legal and Judicial Reasoning
  • Credit(s) 3

Legal and Judicial Reasoning
POLSCI 020 entails an in depth analysis of the American legal System. From constitutional law to statutory and common law implementation. Students will examine court rulings and see how those rulings have evolved and changed civil liberties and society.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU