B.A. in Political Science/International Affairs
The B.A. in Political Science/International Affairs Program is designed to equip students with knowledge of the historical and contemporary dimensions of the international system, and introduces them to foreign affairs, global issues, and the methodologies employed in historical, political and economic analysis. It allows students to explore the enduring questions of the origins of war and the maintenance of peace, the nature and exercise of power within an international system, and the changing roles of state and non-state actors who participate in international decision making in the global environment.
International affairs graduates typically pursue a wide variety of paths after completion of the degree. Some pursue further study and research in international affairs at a graduate level. Others seek further complementary education — by attending a law school, master’s of business or public administration programs, teacher training, or journalism and broadcasting schools — in preparation for careers in the private or public sector.
Some students directly pursue careers in the private sector, in fields such as international business, business management, and consultancy. Others choose careers in the many branches of the public service, including civil and diplomatic services and local government. Many are attracted to careers in national and international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the United Nations.
Curriculum
Students majoring in Political Science/International Affairs should take the Liberal Arts Curriculum requirements, all courses in the major, and the three courses listed under “Other Requirements.”
Liberal Arts Curriculum requirements (34 credits)
See the Liberal Arts Curriculum page for details.
Major requirements (42 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| ECO201 | Micro Economics | 3 |
| ECO202 | Macro Economics | 3 |
| MGT201 | Introd. to Management | 3 |
| POL201 | Introd. to Polit. Science | 3 |
| POL202 | Lebanese Politics and Administration | 3 |
| POL221 | Comp. Govt. of Major Powers | 3 |
| POL311 | Methodology & Political Analysis | 3 |
| POL331 | International Organization | 3 |
| POL332 | Public International Law | 3 |
| POL421 | M.E. in International Affairs | 3 |
| POL431 | International Regional Organizations & Agencies | 3 |
| POL499 | Senior Study-Political Science | 3 |
Other major requirements (9 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| HST305 | Contemporary Europe 1945-1989 | 3 |
| HST312 | Europe & M.E. in 19th & 20th Century | 3 |
Choose one of the following courses (3 Credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| ECO401 | International Economics | 3 |
| POL432 | Diplom. & Consular Service | 3 |
| POL433 | UN System & Problem of Development | 3 |
Choose one of the following areas: 12 credits
A. Developmental Studies/International Economics (12 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| ECO311 | Economic Development | 3 |
| ECO321 | Monetary Theory and Policy | 3 |
| ECO422 | Public Finance and Fiscal Policy | 3 |
| POL312 | Politics of Developing Areas | 3 |
OR
B. Consular & Diplomatic Service/Developmental Studies (12 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| ECO321 | Monetary Theory and Policy | 3 |
| ECO422 | Public Finance and Fiscal Policy | 3 |
| POL313 | Concepts International Relations | 3 |
| POL322 | Foreign Policy of the Major Powers | 3 |
OR
C. Consular & Diplomatic Service/International Economics (12 credits)
| Number | Course | Cr |
|---|---|---|
| ECO311 | Economic Development | 3 |
| POL312 | Politics of Developing Areas | 3 |
| POL313 | Concepts International Relations | 3 |
| POL322 | Foreign Policy of the Major Powers | 3 |
Free electives (10 credits)
Duration
This program requires 92 credits, which can be completed in three years by those entering as sophomores. See the suggested three-year study plan.
Location
This program is offered in Beirut and Byblos.
More about this program
Mission, objectives and intended outcomes