Undergraduate FAQ

General

Fields of Study

Applying to our programs

 

General

What is your department's philosophy?

The Department of Political Science does not embrace any particular philosophy or approach to the study of political science. We offer courses and research opportunities in a wide variety of fields in the discipline (see Fields of Study below).

I need to talk to someone in person. Who is responsible for undergraduate studies in your department?
You should first contact the department's Undergraduate Program Administrator, Hana Meckler. Other officials include Professors Rob Reich and Andrew Rutten, who function as Director of Undergraduate Studies and Director of the Honors Program, respectively.

 

Fields of Study

What fields of study do you offer?

The department offers teaching and research opportunities in five major research areas: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Organizations, and Political Theory.

How can I find a faculty advisor in my area of interest?

You can try the faculty links in the previous question to associate faculty names with specific areas of study. Alternatively, you can then access more specific information about particular faculty members by going to the faculty page.

 

Applying to our programs

How do I declare a major?

After completing a Major Proposal and submitting it to Encina 100, students declare a major online through Axess. Please be sure to meet all requirements and follow all preliminary steps. Click here to see more information.

How do I apply for admission to the Honors program?
You need to fill out an application form, which you can download here.

How do I declare a minor?
You need to fill out an online minor declaration form, available at this site (go to the Minor program description and follow all instructions).