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 an incoming Fall 2026 or continuing Berkeley student, you are welcome to schedule a phone, in-person or virtual advising appointment.
If you are an incoming Spring 2027 Berkeley student, we will only start advising in November. Please see email we sent on Friday, 10/9 for additional details. (It may have been sent to your Berkeley email).
****All prospective students should contact us via e-mail. Thanks!
- You can schedule ONE appointment per week - please don't double book.
- Cancel if you need to reschedule by clicking "cancel or reschedule booking" on the automated email confirmation.
- Review all the items above before scheduling. To schedule an appointment with Pol Sci, 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. Virtual drop-in and in-person drop-in advising are available during the following days and times unless specified in "Modifications" below.
Note that the first few weeks of the semester are always busy, so if you come in for drop in hours e.g., in person or zoom, be prepared for some waiting time.
| Mondays | 9:30 - 11:30 am - Appointments only | 1:30 - 3:30 pm - In person and Zoom Drop-In |
| Tuesdays | 9:30 - 11:30 am - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In ** Modified on 10/27 (see below) | 2:30 - 3:30 pm - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In |
| Wednesdays | 9:30 - 11:30 am - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In | 1:30 - 3:30 pm - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In |
| Thursdays | 9:30 - 11:30 am - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In | 1:30 - 3:30 pm - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In |
| Fridays | 9:30 - 11:30 am - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In |
1:30 - 3:30 pm - Appointments & in person and Zoom Drop-In |
October:
Drop-in advising the morning of Tuesday, October 27th, will end early at 10:45am.
November:
Drop-in advising the morning of Tuesday, November 10th, will end early at 10:30am.
No drop-in advising the afternoon of Tuesday, November 10th.
Drop-in advising the morning of Friday, November 13th will be virtual only.
No drop-in advising on the 11/11, 11/26, and 11/27 holidays.
All other students (e.g., prospective applicants to Berkeley) should e-mail us.
Office Location:
210 Social Sciences Building (2nd floor) (near the elevators)
For drop in, see designated drop in hours. Please sign in at the front desk, ring the bell next to the sign-in sheet, and have a seat. We will come out and greet you.
Contact Information
(510) 642-3770
psadvise@berkeley.edu
