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  BA/BS in Political Science
  
  BA in International Studies
  
  BA/BS in Law and American Civilization
  
  BA/BS in Metropolitan Studies
  
  

Political Science BA/BS in Law and American Civilization

LAW AND AMERICAN CIVILIZATION PROGRAM

The Law and American Civilization Program introduces under-graduates to the American legal system.  Students will learn the methodology and gain the knowledge necessary to participate as active citizens in a nation devoted to the rule of law and will receive intensive training in analytical reasoning and critical thinking.  Students majoring in Law and American Civilization may wish to attend law school following college graduation; they may choose to apply to graduate school in one of the disciplines of the program; or they may enter the work force in government, business and industry, or politics.  This course of study in not necessarily a pre-professional program.  Students not contemplating law or graduate school are encouraged to major in the program if their primary academic interest in college is to learn more about the American legal system.

MAJOR IN LAW AND AMERICAN CIVILIZATION

Majors must complete 54 units.  The program is divided into four parts, and writing skills are emphasized throughout.  First, students must complete two introductory courses, one each in political science and philosophy, which acquaint students with the nature of law and its role in American society.  Second, students will take four core courses, one at the lower-division, two at the upper division level, and an advanced writing course.  These courses further situate students in American culture, politics, judicial policymaking and logical thinking.  Third, students will have several options in choosing electives, which will be offered by several departments:  Accounting, Mass Communication and Communication Studies, English, History, Philosophy and Religious Studies, and Political Science. Fourth and finally, students will undertake a 6-unit capstone experience of their choice and, if possible, design.  Advanced students may wish to undertake a project in the workplace and then write an analytical essay on that experience as it fits into the overall program. Other students will participate in a senior seminar, in which they will write a research paper on some aspect of the law, to be developed into a thesis supervised by the program director. Finally, qualified students may choose to write an honors thesis. 

For course requirements please see the undergaduate catalog.