Jackson State University offers a comprehensive political science program that equips students with a deep understanding of political theory, American government, and global politics. This comparative introduction explores the diverse curriculum, highlighting core courses and specialized areas of study. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and research methodologies, preparing students for careers in law, government, public service, and academia.
Core Curriculum: Foundations of Political Science
The political science program at Jackson State begins with foundational courses that introduce students to key concepts and analytical tools:
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PS 134: Introduction to Political Science: This introductory course provides a broad overview of the discipline, covering fundamental concepts, theories, and methods of analysis. It serves as a prerequisite for many upper-level courses. This course lays the groundwork for understanding the complexities of political systems and behavior.
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PS 135: American Government: This course delves into the structure and function of the American national government, exploring the Constitution, political institutions, civil rights, and the principles of constitutional government. This understanding of American governance is crucial for further specialized study.
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PS 136: State and Local Government: Examining the role of state and local governments within the federal system, this course focuses on political institutions, elections, organization, functions, and challenges specific to these levels of government, with a particular emphasis on Mississippi. It provides a comparative perspective on governance within the United States.
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PS 238: Introduction to Comparative Politics: Building upon the introductory course (PS 134), this course explores the core concepts and approaches in comparative politics, applying them to various regions of the world. It allows students to analyze and compare different political systems globally.
Specialized Courses: Deepening Political Knowledge
Beyond the core curriculum, Jackson State offers a wide array of specialized courses catering to diverse interests:
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Political Theory: Courses like PS 343 (Political Philosophy) delve into the historical evolution of political thought, examining influential thinkers from Montesquieu to Mao Zedong.
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Law and Legal Studies: A strong emphasis on legal studies is evident in courses like PS 320 (Legal Research and Writing), PS 423 & 424 (Constitutional Law I & II), PS 432 & 433 (Introduction to Law I & II), and several paralegal-focused courses. This specialization provides practical legal skills and knowledge.
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American Politics: Courses such as PS 341 (Blacks and the American Political System), PS 350 (American Political Parties and Pressure Groups), PS 351 (The American Presidency), and PS 473 (The American Legislative Process) provide in-depth analyses of specific aspects of the American political system.
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International Relations and Comparative Politics: PS 352 (Modernization and Political Change), PS 353 (Government and Politics in Latin America), PS 429 (African Governments and Politics), and PS 437 (International Relations) offer insights into global political landscapes and international relations theories.
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Research Methods and Political Analysis: PS 236 (Political Statistics), PS 446 (Scope and Methods), and PS 447 (Senior Research Seminar) equip students with the necessary quantitative and qualitative research skills essential for advanced political science study.
Practical Experience: Internships and Applied Learning
Recognizing the importance of practical experience, the program incorporates opportunities for internships and hands-on learning:
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PS 390: Internship in Political Science: This internship program provides students with real-world experience in public-related agencies, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge in professional settings.
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PS 449: Mississippi Legislative Internship Program: Students gain firsthand experience in the legislative process by working directly with Mississippi legislators.
Conclusion: Preparing for Future Leadership
Jackson State University’s political science curriculum offers a robust and diverse range of courses, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of political science principles and practices. The program’s emphasis on theoretical foundations, specialized knowledge, and practical experience prepares graduates for a wide array of careers in the public and private sectors, fostering future leaders in the field of politics and governance.
