International Studies
ApplyStudy International Relations at Skyline College!
The International Studies Program is composed of a basic core of courses from a variety of disciplines that provide a common framework for an understanding of historical, economic, cultural and political relations. Each student will also choose one of four areas for specialization: Asia, Europe, Latin America, or the Philippines for more extensive study of the history, language, and arts of that area.
International Studies encourages people to think critically and analytically about major international issues, institutions and relations and how those catalysts affect our world.
We offer an Associate of Art Degree for students looking to transfer into an International Studies or related majors at a four year institution and is particularly valuable for students planning a career in education, business, law and other areas where an understanding of diverse cultures is important.
Career Outlook
In order to succeed in international relations, students will need to develop research and writing skills along with strong critical thinking, interpersonal and communication skills.
A degree in International Studies provides a broad base of knowledge that can be applied to a wide range of careers including teaching, government service, business administration, law, communications, journalism, finance, and more. The demand for jobs and the pay for these careers varies widely across the nation and the State of California.
The State of California Employment Development Department provides an online Occupational Guide that provides helpful job descriptions, job outlooks and wages, and qualification requirements for a wide variety of careers. Use this guide to find more information about a career that may interest you.
Looking for a list of classes offered this semester?
Check out the current class schedule.All Courses
PLSC 115 Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics (3 units)
Comparative analysis of different political systems in the international context, including their history, political institutions, processes and policies, the environments in which they occur, and their consequences.
PLSC 130 Introduction to International Relations (3 units)
An introduction to international relations theory with an examination of national, international, transnational, and sub-national actors and their institutions, interactions and processes as they relate to global issues.
PLSC 200 National, State and Local Government (3 units)
An introduction to United States and California government and politics, including their constitutions, political institutions and processes, and political actors. Examination of political behavior, political issues, and public policy.
PLSC 210 American Politics (3 units)
The study of politics in U.S. with an emphasis on race, gender, and economic inequality. Examination of how political parties, individual actors, and social movements can impact national policy.
PLSC 280 Introduction to Political Philosophy (3 units)
A critical examination of political philosophies such as Liberalism, Conservatism, Communitarianism, Libertarianism, Socialism, Feminism, Marxism, etc. through readings by influential thinkers such as Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Kant, Marx, Rawls, and contemporary writers. Topics include theories of human nature, conceptions of justice, the rights of individuals, distribution of wealth and power, the significance of ideology, and the role of markets. Also listed as PHIL 280.
PLSC 310 California State and Local Government (3 units)
Examination of California government and politics at the state and local level. Among topics to be studied: population growth; initiative process; elections and campaigns; the legislature; the plural executive; California Judiciary; local governments -- counties, cities, school districts, and regional governments; growth and environmental policies; social programs and cultural diversity. (Note: This course was formerly offered as PLSC 301)
| Program | Type | Total Units |
|---|---|---|
| Political Science for Transfer | AA-T | 60 Units |
Location: Building 1
Email: socialsci-creativearts@smccd.edu
| Type | Status | Title | Days | Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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OPEN | PLSC 130 - 56026 - Intro International Relations | TBA | Raskin, J | |
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OPEN | PLSC 130 - 56026 - Intro International Relations | TBA | Raskin, J | |
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OPEN | PLSC 200 - 55106 - National, State & Local Govt | TBA | Nelson, K | |
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OPEN | PLSC 200 - 55106 - National, State & Local Govt | TBA | Nelson, K | |
| |
OPEN | PLSC 200 - 55775 - National, State & Local Govt | TBA | Nelson, K | |
| |
OPEN | PLSC 200 - 55775 - National, State & Local Govt | TBA | Nelson, K |
Primary Contact
Dean & Division Assistant