Undergraduate Studies
Questions and Answers about Political Science

Political Science is a popular major, both as a student's only major, and as a double or triple major with a variety of other departments. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about the major:

1. Why should I major in Political Science?

Political Science does not develop a particular skill or qualification. Many students who major in Political Science go on to law school, business school, or start a career directly after graduation. However, majoring in Political Science itself does NOT help you get into law or business school. If you want a general degree, and you enjoy Political Science, you are probably going to do better than if you major in something you do not like. High grades can help you to get into law or business school, or to get a job.

2. How many courses do I need to take to major in Political Science?

You need to take 10 courses (30 hours) in Political Science, and 2 courses (6 hours) in other departments. So, relax, there's no need to overload your schedule with political science courses in your freshman or sophomore years.

3. Are there any specific course requirements for the Political Science major?

The only specific course that is required is POLI 395, Introduction to Statistics. You have choices for every other major requirement. For example, you must take two of the four introductory courses, but you can choose which two courses you prefer. You must take four courses in one of the three substantive fields of the department, but other than the introductory course, you have a number of options.

4. What's the best way to get started in Poli to see if I want to become a major?

The department offers 4 introductory courses in different areas of Political Science. Each course is offered each year, and some are offered twice a year. The best way to see if you like Political Science is to take one or two of the introductory courses. Each will provide you with an overview of an entire area of Political Science. There's no need to take any more than one or two courses. You should try a few other courses in related departments (Anthropology, Economics, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology) to see if you like the approach taken in another department better than that of Political Science. The 4 intro Poli courses we offer are:

  • Poli 209, which introduces political theory.
  • Poli 210, which introduces American politics.
  • Poli 211, which introduces international relations.
  • Poli 212, which introduces comparative politics.

5. If I have questions about Political Science, who should I see?

Dr. Stoll is the Director of Undergraduate Studies (202 Baker Hall, x3362, e-mail: stoll@rice.edu). He will be happy to answer all of your questions. Dr. Cuthbertson (209 Baker Hall, x3363) is also an undergraduate advisor who can answer your questions. Dr. Stoll handles all major declarations and transfer credit issues.