The Political Science major is concerned with exploring the exercise of power in its myriad forms and consequences. Students in the major are encouraged to explore such central issues as the ethical problems attendant to the exercise of power; the history of important political ideas, such as "liberty", "justice", "community", and "morality"; the impact of historical, economic, and social forces on the operation of politics; the functioning and distinctive features of the US political system; the diversity of political systems found among national and the significance of these differences; the interaction among international actors 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.
Undergraduate Advising Hours
Scheduling an Appointment:
If you are a current Berkeley student, you are welcome to schedule a phone, in-person or virtual advising appointment. If you are an incoming junior transfer for Spring 2024, please hold off scheduling an appointment as we will only start advising incoming students in November (date tba).
You can schedule one appointment per week - please don't double book. Cancel if you need to reschedule.
We are Political Science. We are not Political Economy.
To schedule an appointment for Political Science, click here.
Designated Drop in Hours:
You can also call us at (510) 642-3770 or join our Zoom or in person drop-in advising during designated hours.
Zoom drop-in and in-person drop-in advising are available during the following days and times unless specified in "Modifications" below.
Mondays 9:30-11:30 am
Tuesdays 3:30-4:30 pm (No in-person drop-in advising on Tuesdays)
Wednesdays 9:30-11:30 am
Thursdays 9:30-11:30 am
Fridays 1:30-3:30 pm
Modifications:
No in-person drop-in advising on Monday, 10/16, Wednesday 11/15, or Thursday, 12/14
No Zoom drop-in advising on Tuesday 10/10
In-person drop-in advising will end early at 10am on Thursday, 10/12, and at 3pm on Friday, 10/13
Zoom drop-in advising will start late at 10:15am on Wednesday, 10/4 and at 2:30pm on Friday, 10/20
All other students (e.g., prospective applicants to Berkeley) should e-mail us.
New Location!
210 Social Sciences Building (2nd floor) (near the elevators)
For drop in, sign in inside and have a seat outside 210 SSB. We will come out and greet you.
Contact Information
(510) 642-3770
psadvise@berkeley.edu
