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 Spring '25 admit, we will email you advising availability later this year. All prospective students should contact us via e-mail. Thanks!
If you are a continuing Berkeley student, you are welcome to schedule a phone, in-person or virtual advising appointment.
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. 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.
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 |
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 |
Modifications:
Fall 2024:
-- No in person or Zoom drop in advising on Tuesday, Nov 19.
-- In person and Zoom drop in advising will end at 3pm on Wednesday, Nov 20.
-- Afternoon drop in will be 2:00-3:30 pm on Friday, Nov 21.
-- No in person drop in advising during the week of Thanksgiving and no Zoom drop in advising the afternoon of 11/27.
-- Office closed for Thanksgiving on Thursday and Friday, November 28 & 29
-- No afternoon drop in the afternoon of Tuesday, December 10.
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, see designated drop in hours. 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
