Political Science

Political science is the study of power in the operation of human society. Students in the major explore the history of key political ideas, the impact of different forces on the operation of politics, the US political system, the diversity of political systems around the world, and the causes of war and peace.

Changes in the Undergraduate Curriculum:

Beginning Fall 2008 for freshmen entering the university and beginning Fall 2009 for entering junior transfer students, there will be new requirements to declare and complete the political science major. Please see the department's undergraduate website for more information.

These changes will not affect students entering Berkeley prior to these respective dates.

New Lower Division Requirements and Prerequisites for the Political Science Major

• Two introductory courses from the following: Political Science 1, 2, 4, 5
• Political Science 3
• One history course (from a pre-approved list)