Political Science

Explore the UConn Political Science website for departmental information. Course descriptions below correspond to the UConn undergraduate course catalog.

POLS 1002: Introduction to Political Theory

Three credits ($150). Offered Fall, Spring, or Full-year.

Major themes of political theory such as justice, obligation, and equality, and their relevance to contemporary political concerns.

Eligibility Guidelines: One year of high school history or high school civics, or instructor consent, is recommended.


POLS 1202: Introduction to Comparative Politics

Three credits ($150). Offered Fall, Spring, or Full-year.

A survey of institutions, politics, and ideologies in democratic and non-democratic states.

Eligibility Guidelines: One year of high school history or high school civics, or instructor consent, is recommended.


POLS 1402: Introduction to International Relations

Three credits ($150). Offered Fall, Spring, or Full-year.

The nature and problems of international politics.

Eligibility Guidelines: One year of high school history or high school civics, or instructor consent, is recommended.


POLS 1602: Introduction to American Politics

Three credits ($150).  Offered Fall, Spring, or Full-year.

Analysis of the organization and operation of the American political system.

Eligibility Guidelines: One year of high school history or high school civics, or instructor consent, is recommended.


Instructor Certification Requirements:

The minimum degree requirement for instructors wishing to teach Early College Experience political science courses is a Master’s of Arts degree in political science or a law degree. Applicants may also be certified to teach one of the four introductory courses if they complete three political science graduate classes in the designated field. These three classes must be approved by the Department of Political Science and UConn ECE before enrollment.

Instructor Resources:

POLS 1002 Sample Syllabus (PDF)
POLS 1202 Sample Syllabus (PDF)
POLS 1402 Sample Syllabus (PDF)
POLS 1602 Sample Syllabus (PDF)