This minor offers students a focused understanding of American political institutions, processes, and behavior. Through the study of Congress, the presidency, the courts, and public opinion, students explore how policies are made and who influences them. The program also examines contemporary political issues as well as the evolving role of government in society. Students will develop a foundation for understanding American democracy and its impact at home and abroad.
Contact the minor advisor through Patriot Connect.
This minor has been designated as a "Workforce-Ready Minor," meaning it is aligned with at least one of Virginia's high-demand career fields and includes career-relevance assignments as well as the opportunity to earn academic credit through an internship.
Policies
Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor and students must earn a minimum grade of 2.00 (grade of C or better) in all courses applied to the minor. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.
Minor Requirements
Total credits: 18
Core Course
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GOVT 103 | Introduction to American Government (Mason Core) | 3 |
| Total Credits | 3 | |
Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select five electives from the following: | 15 | |
| Public Law and the Judicial Process | ||
| American State and Local Government | ||
| Legislative Behavior | ||
| The American Presidency | ||
| Political Parties and Campaigns | ||
| Political Psychology | ||
| Interest Groups, Lobbying, and the Political Process | ||
| Issues in Government and Politics (when topic is relevant, with approval of Schar School advisor) | ||
| Issues in Political Theories and Values (when topic is relevant, with approval of Schar School advisor) | ||
| American Foreign Policy | ||
| American Security Policy | ||
| Virginia Government and Politics | ||
| Media and Political Controversy | ||
| Politics of Race and Gender | ||
| American Political Thought | ||
| Artificial Intelligence: Technological and Societal Implications | ||
| Internship/Experiential Learning (when relevant, up to 3 credits may be applied to electives with approval of Schar School advisor) | ||
| Experiential Learning | ||
| Internship | ||
| Total Credits | 15 | |