Major in International and Comparative Politics (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts program in International and Comparative Politics introduces students to the several sub-disciplines of political studies; international relations, comparative politics, political theory, and public administration. The program trains graduates in the liberal arts tradition of thinking independently, critically, and analytically; communicating effectively and finding creative ways to contribute to the society in which they live.
Graduates with a BA in International and Comparative Politics can follow several career tracks. Professional options open to ICP graduates include careers in the following areas:
- public service
- diplomatic service
- practicing politicians
- private business
- third sector: non-governmental organizations
- academic teaching and research
- law
- graduate studies in various professional or academic disciplines
To talk to a faculty adviser, please contact Jacob Udo-Udo Jacob, Interim Associate Dean of School of Arts & Sciences at Rm 212 A&S Building or [email protected].
The Bachelor of Arts in International and Comparative Politics requires a total of 45 credits (15 courses). Of the fifteen (15) courses, the following four (4) core courses are required of every student:
ICP 101: Introduction to Comparative Politics (3)
ICP 131: Introduction to International Relations (3)
ICP 161: Introduction to Political Theory (3)
ICP 205: Contemporary African Politics (3)
Upon completion of the core requirements (many of which serve as pre-requisites for upper level courses), students are required to satisfy the following requirements:
- Nine (9) credits of ICP courses at any level.
- Twelve (12) credits of ICP courses at the 300 or 400 level.
- Nine (9) credits of ICP courses at the 400 level.
- Three (3) credits of quantitative methods at the 300 level or above.
In completing the requirements above, students are free to construct their own program of study with an emphasis in Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, any other sub-field of Political Studies such as Public Administration, African Politics, or Nigerian Politics or across sub-fields subject to the availability of courses and the requirements for the ICP degree. Students should consult with their advisor in designing their course of study, in selecting elective courses, and in considering a possible minor.
The ICP Program also offers a BA with Honors. This requires being part of a two semester Honors Seminar (6 credits; ICP 496 and 497) that culminates with an Honors Thesis of 12-15,000 words that must be presented in a public defense.
Advised Electives
Students are advised to take some or all of the following courses to complement and support the degree program in International and Comparative Politics. Advised electives include:
PHI 201: Comparative Religions: Islam and Christianity (3)
ECO 201: Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECO 202: Principles of Macroeconomics (3)
ECO 303: Development Economics (3)
ECO 323: International Economics and Trade (3)
