Main Content Region

Political Science

About Political Science at CSUSB

What is justice? Who gets to lead? How do we protect both freedom and order in society?

At Cal State San Bernardino, the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science invites you to wrestle with these timeless questions — and discover how they play out in today’s world. Through the study of law, politics, and global affairs, you’ll build the critical thinking, research and communication skills that will serve you across a range of meaningful careers.

Whether you dream of practicing law, shaping policy, serving in public office or working internationally, this degree is your launching point.

Careers in Political Science

Political Science students

The law concentration is tailored for students who plan to attend law school. However, students in the concentration may go on to the full range of careers in both the public and private sectors. As with the general political science track, the emphasis is on the abiding questions of human nature, power and persuasion, and provides our graduates a unique set of skills.

The general political science concentration prepares students for careers in both public and private sectors. CSUSB alumni include professors and high school teachers, practicing attorneys and legislative staffers. They have found work in the corporate world, including real estate development, sales and marketing and business management. 

Sample Courses

The Legislative Process

Law-making processes in the United States and/or other selected political systems.

State and Local Politics

Comparison of state and local political systems within the American Federal System. This course meets the state code requirement in state and local government.

Public Opinion

Exploration of causes of political opinions and their role in political participation and government. Includes interpretation of public opinion polls.

Meet Alum Veronica Wilson

Veronica Wilson, political science major, CSUSB
Veronica Wilson, political science major, gains valuable experience and knowledge while participating in the 2024 Panetta Internship.
—Veronica Wilson

Opportunities for Students

Students interested in the law concentration are strongly encouraged to join the department’s Law Society, a student club that hosts numerous activities every year, including visits from admissions representatives from law schools and guest speakers such as local judges.

These and other activities, such as those held by the Pi Sigma Alpha honor society and the National Security Studies Club, provide students with extensive opportunities for real-world experiences and networking. The Department of Political Science also connects students to scholarshipsinternships (such as at the Pomona or San Bernardino Superior Courts and at legal aid clinics), and provides academic advising support.

Similar to Political Science

With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.

Political Science
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed

Scot Zentner, Chair
Email: zentner@csusb.edu

National Security Studies and National Cyber Security Studies Program Office
Email: NSS@csusb.edu