ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2016-2017
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school in physics or engineering should additionally take PH 412, MA 310, and MA 311.
Students wishing to prepare for teaching physics in secondary schools should complete
the physics major and confer with the education department concerning additional
requirements in education.
Courses required for the physics major may be used to meet minor requirements in
mathematics.
Minor Requirements
The following courses are required (5 units):
PH 121
PH 122
PH 201
PH 301 or PH 303
PH 304, PH 402, or PH 404
Political Science
Bachelor of Arts
Natalie M. Davis, Vincent T. Gawronski, Robert J. Slagter
Political science is the analysis of power dynamics within and between societies and
nation-states. We conduct theoretical and practical analysis to explore, explain, and
predict political behavior at the individual, group and institutional levels. Comparative
studies of the United States, Europe, Latin America, and Asia as well as insights from
sociology, political psychology, media studies, and economics are utilized in the study of
power across cultures. The results of research need to be communicated to a variety of
audiences; we work together to develop the skills to do this effectively. Our students are
encouraged to participate in internships, collaborate with practitioners, and work in
political settings.
The political science major is intended for those students who wish to attend law
school, pursue graduate studies, enter public service, or work in the private for-profit or
non-profit sectors. In recent years, political science majors have gone on to become
Truman Scholars, Fulbright and Rotary scholarship winners, elected public servants,
lobbyists and policy analysts, noted lawyers, business entrepreneurs, Foreign Service
Officers, journalists, authors, and community leaders.
Upon completion of the political science major, students will be able to
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articulate the fields of American politics and comparative politics
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apply the basic methods of empirical social science analysis
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employ critical thinking, research and analysis skills
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formulate theses and research questions
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synthesize information about politics