Major in Political Science: Requirements
I. ONE class from EACH of the following fields
(48 units):
- Political Philosophy or Theory
examples include:
17.007J Feminist Political Thought
17.01J Justice
24.06J Bioethics
- United States Politics
examples include:
17.20 Introduction to American Political Process
17.263 Electoral Politics
17.265 Public Opinion and American Democracy
- Public Policy
examples include:
17.309J Science, Technology & Public Policy
17.315 Health Policy
17.317 US Social Policy
- Politics of Foreign Countries / International Relations / Comparative Politics
examples include:
17.405 Politics and Conflict in the Middle East
17.42 Causes and Prevention of War
17.547 The Rise of China
These are only suggestions for each field, check with Tobie Weiner (iguanatw@mit.edu, 617-253-3649) or Scott Schnyer (sschnyer@mit.edu, 617-258-5883) in the Undergraduate Office (E53-484) if you have questions about whether a class falls within a certain field.
II. BOTH these classes are REQUIRED
(27 units - taken junior year)
- 17.869 Political Science Scope and Methods (CI-M)
Introduces principles of empirical and theoretical analysis in political science through research projects currently conducted in the department. Different department faculty lead modules that introduce students to major research questions in political science - and to different ways of examining those questions. Emphasizes how this research in progress relates to larger themes, and how researchers confront obstacles to inference in political science. Includes substantial instruction and practice in writing (with revision) and oral presentations.
- 17.871 Political Science Laboratory (LAB)
Introduces students to the conduct of political research using quantitative methodologies. The methods are examined in the context of specific political research activities like public opinion surveys, voting behavior, Congressional behavior, comparisons of political processes in different countries, and the evaluation of public policies. Students participate in joint class projects and conduct individual projects. Does not count toward HASS Requirement.
III. Thesis research and writing
(minimum of 24 units)
- 17.THT Thesis Research Design Seminar (CI-M, 12 units, first semester senior year)
Seminar participants will develop their research topics, review relevant research and scholarship, frame their research questions and arguments, choose an appropriate methodology for analysis, and draft the introductory and methodology sections of their theses.
- 17.THU Thesis (minimum of 12 units, second semester senior year)
Work directly with a faculty advisor and second reader in a program of research and writing leading to the writing of an S.B. thesis.
IV. Choose at least THREE Political Science electives
(36 units)
At least three political science classes. Ideally they will form a concentration and focus on one of the fields in the discipline. These classes will add up to approximately 135 units. You will need 45 more units beyond your General Institute Requirements (180) in order to graduate.
Questions? Contact Tobie Weiner (617-253-3649, iguanatw@mit.edu)
