M.S. in Computer Science
The MSCS program at William Jessup University is structured to provide a comprehensive ...
B.A. in Political Science
Rocklin, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Political Science is a four-year, on-campus program dedicated to preparing future leaders for service and leadership in the public sector and for graduate studies. It provides a foundational understanding of political theory, philosophical underpinnings, historical context, governmental structures, procedural aspects, and managerial principles within the political sphere. The program distinguishes itself by integrating biblical and ethical principles into its curriculum, encouraging students to apply a Christian worldview to public policy issues and institutions. It also emphasizes direct experiences through seminars, internships, and events to develop practical skills in policymaking and public administration.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Political Science at Jessup University is comprehensive, combining foundational coursework with specialized concentrations. Core courses often include American Government, Political Theory and Philosophy, Political Process, Public Administration I & II, Ethics in Public Policy, Constitution and Civil Rights, American Foreign Policy, and International Relations and Human Rights. Students are also recommended to take Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, American History, and Introduction to Philosophy. Depending on the chosen concentration, students will delve into specific areas. For instance, the Government and Politics concentration might include courses like Legislative Process, Comparative Government and Politics, and American Presidency. The Pre-Law concentration offers courses such as Business Law, Introduction to Criminal Law, and Administrative Law. The program aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and management skills for policymaking and public administration, and to enable students to identify effective methods for policy research and analysis.
Research Focus: While an undergraduate program, the B.A. in Political Science at Jessup University fosters a strong applied research focus, particularly through its Institute for Public Policy. The program explicitly aims to prepare students to "identify and utilize effective and principled methods and approaches to political process, policy research and analysis." Faculty members, who are often "professor-practitioners" with real-world experience, guide students in critically analyzing policy issues and understanding how policy-making happens beyond textbooks. This is evidenced by opportunities for students to engage in research related to public policy, often involving data and analysis for government entities or exploring policy development. The program encourages a Christ-centered, policy-driven discussion where critical thinking "trumps opinion," fostering a research-informed approach to public debate.
Industry Engagement: William Jessup University places a high priority on practical industry engagement for its Political Science students. The program is designed to provide "direct experiences" through seminars, internships, and events to develop practical skills. The university's Institute for Public Policy actively connects students with local and state government leaders, offering opportunities to observe city council and county supervisor meetings, and providing leadership development experiences, including the potential for programs in Washington, D.C. The Office of Career Services and External Workforce Partnerships supports students in career counseling, occupational exploration, and preparing for internships and job searches. The goal is to make graduates "exceptionally employable" by equipping them with skills important to employers in public service, law, and related fields.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Political Science program at William Jessup University inherently incorporates a global perspective, particularly through courses like American Foreign Policy and International Relations and Human Rights. The curriculum emphasizes understanding constitutional and international principles and organizations for governance, civic participation, and civil and human rights. The university's Institute for Public Policy has a vision to "raise awareness of policy issues that impact all Californians and Americans with a perspective informed by the WJU Vision to redeem world culture by providing notable servant leadership." This commitment ensures that graduates are prepared to engage with international conflict, global justice issues, and diverse political systems, fostering an understanding of their role in an interconnected world.
Location
Rocklin, California
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 36000
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $150
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
William Jessup University is making high-quality Christian education accessible to students from around the globe. As part of this mission, the university offers a variety of scholarships for international students to help reduce financial barriers and support academic success. These scholarships are based on merit, leadership, and sometimes financial need, making it easier for qualified international students to afford a U.S.-based degree.
Academic Merit Scholarships: International students with strong academic records are eligible for merit-based scholarships. These are automatically considered upon admission and awarded based on high school or prior college performance. Awards vary depending on GPA, test scores (if submitted), and other academic achievements.
Leadership Scholarships: Students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in school, community, or church settings may qualify for Leadership Awards. These scholarships recognize students who align with William Jessup University's core values and mission.
Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may be considered for athletic scholarships through the university’s athletics department. Jessup competes in the NAIA and offers scholarships across several sports for both men and women.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments offer program-specific financial awards based on a student's choice of major, such as business, education, or ministry-related degrees.
Church Partnership Grant: Students affiliated with churches that partner with WJU may be eligible for additional financial support, including partial scholarships for those recommended by their church leadership.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science from William Jessup University provides graduates with a comprehensive and ethically-grounded education in governmental structures, policy processes, and political theory. Rooted in Jessup's mission to develop "Christian critical thinkers," the program aims to prepare students for impactful leadership and service in the public sector, law, and related fields.
Policy Analyst/Researcher: Graduates can work for government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or consulting firms, researching and evaluating public policies, analyzing data, and developing recommendations to address societal issues. Their critical thinking and research skills are highly valued in this role.
Paralegal/Legal Assistant: With a strong foundation in constitutional law, legal principles, and analytical reasoning, Political Science graduates are well-prepared for roles assisting attorneys with legal research, drafting documents, and preparing for court cases. This is often a stepping stone to law school.
Legislative Aide/Congressional Staffer: These professionals support elected officials by conducting research, drafting legislation, managing constituent communications, and assisting with policy development at local, state, or federal levels. Jessup's emphasis on direct experiences and understanding the political process is highly beneficial.
Public Relations (PR) Specialist: Political Science majors develop excellent communication and persuasive writing skills, making them effective in managing an organization's public image. They can work in government, non-profits, or the private sector, crafting messages, handling media inquiries, and building relationships.
Campaign Manager/Political Consultant: For those interested in electoral politics, graduates can work on political campaigns, managing strategy, fundraising, communications, and public opinion analysis to help elect candidates.
Government Administrator/Analyst: Graduates can secure various roles within federal, state, or local government agencies, focusing on public administration, program management, data analysis, or ensuring efficient operation of government services.
Journalist/Political Reporter: With strong research, interviewing, and writing skills, Political Science graduates can report on political affairs, public policies, and governmental developments for news organizations (print, digital, or broadcast), providing informed analysis.
International Relations Specialist/Foreign Service Officer: Particularly relevant for those with an interest in global politics, these roles involve working for government agencies (like the State Department), international organizations, or NGOs to promote diplomatic relations, analyze foreign policy, and manage international projects.
Advocacy Coordinator/Lobbyist: Graduates can represent special interest groups or organizations, advocating for specific causes or policy changes by engaging with policymakers, organizing campaigns, and influencing public opinion.
High School Teacher (Government/Civics): For those passionate about education, a B.A. in Political Science provides the subject matter expertise to teach government, civics, and related social studies courses at the secondary level. Additional teaching certification is typically required.
