Department of Political Science

Office: Clark Hall 471
Telephone: 408-924-5550
Email: polisci@sjsu.edu
Website: www.sjsu.edu/polisci

Professors
James C. Brent
Melinda Jackson
Garrick Percival, Chair
Kenneth B. Peter
Lawrence Quill
Karthika Sasikumar

Associate Professors
Sergio Bejar-Lopez
Mary Currin-Percival
Danijela Dudley

Assistant Professors
Sara Benson
Xintong Chen

Overview

Political science majors tackle the public issues of the day as well as the timeless issues of government, public policy and the political process. The Department of Political Science offers a BA in political science. Our courses cover U.S. politics and public administration, public law, comparative politics, international relations and political theory. Our extensive internship program includes funded internships in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., and our students have the opportunity to participate in a Model United Nations and the honor society Pi Sigma Alpha. We prepare our graduates for advanced graduate study as well as careers in law, public policy analysis, teaching, government service, legislative staffing, political consulting, interest group representation, international relations and other fields. Contact us at 408-924-5550 or visit us at the Political Science Department website.

Honors Program

The achievements of political science majors with an overall GPA of 3.20 and a 3.50 GPA in political science are recognized by the department honors program. These outstanding students are eligible to enroll in POLS 190H - Honors Thesis . Students who attain the required GPA and complete the honors thesis graduate with Honors in Political Science. Interested students should consult the department chairperson.

Programs

Undergraduate Major(s)

Political Science, BA

Undergraduate Minor(s)

Roadmaps

Political Science, BA (2025-2026)

Courses

Political Science