Charles and Louise Travers Department of Political Science, UC Berkeley

The Political Science major is concerned with exploring the exercise of power in its many forms and consequences. Students in the major are encouraged to explore such issues as 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. Undergraduate courses in Political Science vary from large lectures of 450 students to small seminars of 18 students. The courses are challenging, often emphasizing critical reading and analytical writing. Below, please find brief descriptions of the links and information you can find in this section.

• Requirements for the Major Learn about the requirements to complete the major including rules and regulations of the program, course enrollment strategies, sample schedules, and what to do about incomplete grades.
• Courses Review descriptions of the current semester's course offerings as well as links to course websites and archived descriptions by semester.
• Declaring the Major Find out how to become a political science major, and learn about the different requirements for declaring the major based on when you were admitted to Cal.
• Transfer Students Whether you are interested in transferring into UC Berkeley from a community college or other college or university to become a political science major, or you are already part of our department here at Cal, visit this section for information related to transfer students.
• Academic Opportunities Browse through the many opportunities to get involved in the department and enhance your undergraduate education outside the classroom.
• Graduation and Beyond Ensure that you are on the right track to completing the major for graduation, learn about commencement ceremonies and receiving your diploma, and explore post-graduation options like the job market and graduate school.