The Associate in Arts in Political Science for Transfer Degree is intended to meet the lower division requirements for Political Science majors (or similar majors) at a CSU campus that offers a Political Science baccalaureate degree.
This degree will introduce students to the broad discipline of political science. It involves the study of political structures, processes and social conditions as they relate to political situations, policy formulation approaches, and intergovernmental relations. This program is particularly relevant for students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from a California State University, or for those seeking a structured examination into political systems.
Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.| Course | Units | Typically Offered |
| 1st Semester | ||
| POLS 110 / POLS 110H (CSU GE D)M | 3.0 | |
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program. | ||
| ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (CSU GE A2)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
| CSU GE E - Lifelong Learning/Self DevelopmentGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
| CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.5 | |
| 2nd Semester | ||
| Select One: PHIL 128 / POLS 128 / POLS 128H / POLS 130 / POLS 140 M | 3.0 | |
PHIL 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as POLS 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. POLS 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as PHIL 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. POLS 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as PHIL 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. POLS 130 - Comparative Government (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the political systems of selected industrial democracies, dictatorships, and governments of the developing world. Emphasis is placed on the institutional development and political processes and cultures within these countries. The course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism, and is intended for students interested in the study of foreign governments as well as those who want to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the structure and operation of the international system. Emphasis is placed on the nature and sources of conflict and cooperation, issues of war and peace among states in the international system, and international economic development. The impact of nation-states, international organizations, and non-governmental actors are all examined. This course is suitable for students who wish to expand their knowledge of international politics and for those who wish to major in political science or international relations. | ||
| Select One ECON 101 / ECON 101H / ECON 102 / ECON 102H / ECON 106 / HIST 143 / HIST 143H / HIST 144 / HIST 144H / HIST 156 / HIST 157 / HIST 158 / HIST 159 / HIST 159H / HIST 170 / POLS 125 / POLS 135 / ECON 135 / POLS 150 / CHST 150 (CSU GE D)M | 3.0 | |
ECON 101 - Principles of Macroeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course. This introductory course has students learn to analyze and describe the performance and policies of national economic systems, with particular emphasis on the U.S. economy. The course is intended for economics or business majors and also satisfies General Education (GE) requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; the functions of government; national income and employment; business cycles; money and banking; monetary and fiscal policy; comparative advantage and trade policy; economic growth and stability; and income distribution and poverty. ECON 101H - Principles of Macroeconomics Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101; Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. This introductory course has students learn to analyze and describe the performance and policies of national economic systems, with particular emphasis on the U.S. economy. The course is intended for economics or business majors and also satisfies General Education (GE) requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; the functions of government; national income and employment; business cycles; money and banking; monetary and fiscal policy; comparative advantage and trade policy; economic growth and stability; and income distribution and poverty. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. ECON 102 - Principles of Microeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course. This introductory course in economic analysis of markets has students learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers, the various causes of the failure of free markets, and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. The course is intended for economics and business majors as well as to satisfy General Education (GE) requirements, and may be taken prior to ECON 101. ECON 102H - Principles of Microeconomics Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101; Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ECON 102 or ECON 102H) This introductory course in economic analysis of markets has students learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers, the various causes of the failure of free markets, and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. Students complete a research project on an actual economic policy or a theoretical view. The course is intended for economics and business majors as well as to satisfy General Education (GE) requirements, and may be taken prior to ECON 101 by any student who has completed ENGL 101 with a “C” or better. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. ECON 106 - Economics of Contemporary Issues (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement The course is an introductory course designed for students interested in exploring how the tools of economics are used to analyze and debate critical issues facing society today. Economics will be applied to issues such as: health care, trade deficits, social security, crime, pollution, alternative energy, income inequality, global development, housing and homelessness, and immigration. HIST 143 - History of the United States to 1877 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of United States history from Native American origins to post-Civil War Reconstruction. Social, economic, political, and cultural developments are explored, and an emphasis placed on the independence movement, Revolutionary War, new republic, westward expansion, and the Civil War. The course is designed for students interested in the foundational history of the United States. It is recommended for all history majors, and fulfills the Cal State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems’ American Institutions requirement and the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree. This course also satisfies a requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). HIST 143H - History of the United States to 1877 Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is a survey of United States history from Native American origins to post-Civil War Reconstruction. Social, economic, political, and cultural developments are explored, and an emphasis placed on the independence movement, Revolutionary War, new republic, westward expansion, and the Civil War. The course is designed for students interested in the foundational history of the United States. It is recommended for all history majors, fulfills the Cal State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems’ American Institutions requirement and the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree, and is intended for those who meet Honors Program requirements. This course also satisfies a requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). HIST 144 - History of the United States Since 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course provides a survey of the political, social, economic, and cultural development of the United States from Reconstruction (1865) to the present. Some topics addressed are Reconstruction, the American West, capital and labor in the age of enterprise, America as an emerging world power, World War I, World War II, the Vietnam Era, the Cold War, and the new world order. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It is recommended for all history majors and satisfies a course requirement for the History for Transfer (AA-T) degree. HIST 144H - History of the United States Since 1865 Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course provides a survey of the political, social, economic, and cultural development of the United States from Reconstruction (1865) to the present. Some topics addressed are Reconstruction, the American West, capital and labor in the age of enterprise, America as an emerging world power, World War I, World War II, the Vietnam Era, the Cold War, and the new world order. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It is recommended for all history majors, satisfies a course requirement for the History for Transfer (AA-T) degree, and is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 156 - Black American Experience to 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course investigates the history of Black Americans from west African origins to the abolition of slavery, roughly dating from the 1400s to 1865. Students examine the ways in which Blacks constructed a distinct African-American culture, influenced by the African past, shared experiences of enslavement, and the experiences of free Blacks. The course also pays close attention to the methods and tactics employed by Blacks to exert control over their lives, highlighting their major successes and achievements despite myriad forms of oppression and discrimination. HIST 157 - Black American Experience Since 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the historical experiences of Black Americans from emancipation to the present, paying close attention to the twentieth century. Students navigate and examine the factors that led to the development of a distinct Black American culture, a legacy of resistance against legal and extralegal inequities, the acquisition of political and economic rights, and Black contributions to the expanding definition of democracy and freedom. HIST 158 - US Comparative History of American Indians and Black Americans (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of the role American Indians and Black Americans have played in the historical development of the United States from the earliest times to the present. The course begins with a study of racism, followed by the history and cultural contributions of American Indians and African Americans. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree (Title 5, Section 40404). The course is intended for students who want to increase their understanding of the history of minorities in the United States. This course also satisfies a course requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). HIST 159 - US Comparative History of Mexican and Asian Americans and Women (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys the roles selected minorities have played in the historical development of the United States from the earliest times to the present. Emphasis is placed on the history and cultural contributions of Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, and American women. This course is intended for students who want to fulfill the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree (Title 5, Section 40404) and CSU requirements, as well as students want to increase their understanding of the history of minorities in the United States. This course is a restricted elective for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer. (AA-T). HIST 159H - US Comparative History of Mexican and Asian Americans and Women Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys the roles selected minorities have played in the historical development of the United States from the earliest times to the present. Emphasis is placed on the history and cultural contributions of Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, and American women. This course is intended for students who want to fulfill the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree (Title 5, Section 40404) and CSU requirements, as well as students want to increase their understanding of the history of minorities in the United States. This course is a restricted elective for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 170 - Women in American History (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys the roles, status, and contributions of women of different ethnic groups and social classes in American society from earliest times to the present, with an emphasis on the twentieth century. Special attention is given to an understanding of how gender has shaped women’s options and expectations within the private and public spheres of society. This course is designed for students who want to learn more about women’s history in America, and is recommended for all history majors. This course also satisfies a course requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). POLS 125 - Law and Democracy (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course provides an examination and analysis of practical law as it affects people in daily life as citizens in a democracy. It assists in the development of skills to successfully navigate legal systems and in understanding democratic political values. Emphasis is placed on constitutional rights and civil liberties, police encounters and criminal law, local government and advocacy, small claims and traffic courts, landlord/tenant relations, family law, consumer rights, contracts, employment and immigration. Further emphasis is placed on application, critical thinking and problem solving in common legal situations. This course is designed for any student wishing to learn more about the law and its interaction with democratic government and those students wishing to attend law school. It is also a requirement for any student seeking to participate in the Community College Pathway to Law School Initiative. POLS 135 - International Political Economy (Same as ECON 135) (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This is an introductory course designed for students interested in economics and political science, as well as anyone interested in the global interconnectedness of the world economy. The course focuses on the relations between the political and economic systems within the global economy. The course covers the impact of political decisions on world economies and international organizations. Further emphasis is placed on a comparison-contrast of various national economies. Geographic areas of concern include Africa, Europe, the Pacific Rim, the Middle East, Latin America, Russia, China, and the United States. The course is cross-listed as Economics 135 and Political Science 135. Credit is given in either area, not both. ECON 135 - International Political Economy (Same as POLS 135) (3.0 units) Advisory:>It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This is an introductory course designed for students interested in economics and political science, as well as anyone interested in the global interconnectedness of the world economy. The course focuses on the relations between the political and economic systems within the global economy. The course covers the impact of political decisions on world economies and international organizations. Further emphasis is placed on a comparison-contrast of various national economies. Geographic areas of concern include Africa, Europe, the Pacific Rim, the Middle East, Latin America, Russia, China, and the United States. The course is cross-listed as Economics 135 and Political Science 135. Credit is given in either area, not both. POLS 150 - Latinx Politics (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the history and contemporary role of Latinx people in the U.S. political system. Much of the course will explore the migration and political activism of the largest Latinx-origin groups: Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Salvadorean, Dominican, and Guatemalan. The course begins with a review of U.S. demographics and discussion about “Latino” and “Hispanic” as meaningful political terms. Students also learn about the political institutional context in the U.S.; examine the political relationships between Latinx and non-Latinx groups as they relate to political parties, voting coalitions, representation and public policy; and learn how to analyze data on Latinx public opinion, voting behavior, and political attitudes. CHST 150 - Chicana/o/x Politics (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines U.S. history and political issues relevant to the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x community. The course provides an overview of demographic changes in the U.S. and examines political activism and political leadership. Students interested in this course may include individuals with familial or personal connections to the Chicana/o/x (Mexican-American) community and/or those intending to work in environments with high concentrations of this population. | ||
| Select One: PSY 190 / MATH 130 / MATH 130H (CSU GE B4)*M | 4.0 | |
PSY 190 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course. This course provides an overview of the types of statistics that are important in the behavioral sciences. It is designed to teach students majoring in psychology, sociology, political science, and anthropology how to present and interpret experimental data. The course focuses on hypothesis testing and the statistics used to analyze assumptions, with topics including basic probability, measures of central tendency, measures of variance, sampling, and inferential statistics. MATH 130 - Statistics (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course. This course is designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. This course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. Students learn to read, interpret, and present data in a well-organized way via a study of frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation, and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, students learn to make generalizations about populations, including probability, sampling techniques, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. MATH 130H - Statistics Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course and ENGL 101 This course is designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. This course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. Students learn to read, interpret, and present data in a well-organized way via a study of frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation, and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, students learn to make generalizations about populations, including probability, sampling techniques, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
| CSU GE B1 - Physical SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 16.0† | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| CSU GE C1 - ArtsGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| CSU GE A1 - Oral CommunicationGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140 | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 6.0† | |
| 3rd Semester | ||
| Select One: PHIL 128 / PHIL 128H / POLS 128 / POLS 128H / POLS 130 / POLS 140 M | 3.0 | |
PHIL 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as POLS 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. PHIL 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as POLS 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. POLS 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as PHIL 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. POLS 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as PHIL 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. POLS 130 - Comparative Government (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the political systems of selected industrial democracies, dictatorships, and governments of the developing world. Emphasis is placed on the institutional development and political processes and cultures within these countries. The course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism, and is intended for students interested in the study of foreign governments as well as those who want to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the structure and operation of the international system. Emphasis is placed on the nature and sources of conflict and cooperation, issues of war and peace among states in the international system, and international economic development. The impact of nation-states, international organizations, and non-governmental actors are all examined. This course is suitable for students who wish to expand their knowledge of international politics and for those who wish to major in political science or international relations. | ||
| US HISTORY (CSU GE C2)M | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170. | ||
| CSU GE A3 - Critical ThinkingGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| CSU GE F - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 15.0† | |
| 4th Semester | ||
| CSU GE B2 - Biological SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| CSU GE B3 - Lab ScienceGE | 1.0 | |
Select one if lab has not been completed in CSU B1 or B2. | ||
| CSU GE C1 or C2 - Arts or HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Arts Humanities | ||
| CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 13.0† | |
| Total Units for Political Science AA-T program (Transfer to CSU) | 62.5† | |
| AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
| *PSY 190 is the preferred math/quantitative reasoning course for Behavioral and Social Science majors. Please meet with a counselor to discuss major preparation requirements. |
| † | Some classes may have higher units |
| M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
| GE | General Education course |
| EL | Elective Course |
| Course | Units | Typically Offered |
| 1st Semester | ||
| POLS 110 / POLS 110H (IGETC 4)M | 3.0 | |
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program. | ||
| ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (IGETC 1A)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
| IGETC 3A - ArtsGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| UC ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.5† | |
| 2nd Semester | ||
| Select One: POLS 128 / POLS 128H / POLS 130 / POLS 140 / PHIL 128 / PHIL 128H (IGETC 4)M | 3.0 | |
POLS 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as PHIL 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. POLS 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as PHIL 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. POLS 130 - Comparative Government (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the political systems of selected industrial democracies, dictatorships, and governments of the developing world. Emphasis is placed on the institutional development and political processes and cultures within these countries. The course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism, and is intended for students interested in the study of foreign governments as well as those who want to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the structure and operation of the international system. Emphasis is placed on the nature and sources of conflict and cooperation, issues of war and peace among states in the international system, and international economic development. The impact of nation-states, international organizations, and non-governmental actors are all examined. This course is suitable for students who wish to expand their knowledge of international politics and for those who wish to major in political science or international relations. PHIL 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as POLS 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. PHIL 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as POLS 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
| Select One: ECON 101 / ECON 101H / ECON 102 / ECON 102H / HIST 143 / HIST 143H / HIST 144 / HIST 144H / HIST 156 / HIST 157 / HIST 158 / HIST 159 / HIST 159H / HIST 170 / POLS 125 / POLS 135 / ECON 135 / POLS 150 / CHST 150 M | 3.0 | |
ECON 101 - Principles of Macroeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course. This introductory course has students learn to analyze and describe the performance and policies of national economic systems, with particular emphasis on the U.S. economy. The course is intended for economics or business majors and also satisfies General Education (GE) requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; the functions of government; national income and employment; business cycles; money and banking; monetary and fiscal policy; comparative advantage and trade policy; economic growth and stability; and income distribution and poverty. ECON 101H - Principles of Macroeconomics Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101; Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. This introductory course has students learn to analyze and describe the performance and policies of national economic systems, with particular emphasis on the U.S. economy. The course is intended for economics or business majors and also satisfies General Education (GE) requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; the functions of government; national income and employment; business cycles; money and banking; monetary and fiscal policy; comparative advantage and trade policy; economic growth and stability; and income distribution and poverty. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. ECON 102 - Principles of Microeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course. This introductory course in economic analysis of markets has students learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers, the various causes of the failure of free markets, and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. The course is intended for economics and business majors as well as to satisfy General Education (GE) requirements, and may be taken prior to ECON 101. ECON 102H - Principles of Microeconomics Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101; Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ECON 102 or ECON 102H) This introductory course in economic analysis of markets has students learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers, the various causes of the failure of free markets, and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. Students complete a research project on an actual economic policy or a theoretical view. The course is intended for economics and business majors as well as to satisfy General Education (GE) requirements, and may be taken prior to ECON 101 by any student who has completed ENGL 101 with a “C” or better. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 143 - History of the United States to 1877 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of United States history from Native American origins to post-Civil War Reconstruction. Social, economic, political, and cultural developments are explored, and an emphasis placed on the independence movement, Revolutionary War, new republic, westward expansion, and the Civil War. The course is designed for students interested in the foundational history of the United States. It is recommended for all history majors, and fulfills the Cal State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems’ American Institutions requirement and the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree. This course also satisfies a requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). HIST 143H - History of the United States to 1877 Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is a survey of United States history from Native American origins to post-Civil War Reconstruction. Social, economic, political, and cultural developments are explored, and an emphasis placed on the independence movement, Revolutionary War, new republic, westward expansion, and the Civil War. The course is designed for students interested in the foundational history of the United States. It is recommended for all history majors, fulfills the Cal State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems’ American Institutions requirement and the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree, and is intended for those who meet Honors Program requirements. This course also satisfies a requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). HIST 144 - History of the United States Since 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course provides a survey of the political, social, economic, and cultural development of the United States from Reconstruction (1865) to the present. Some topics addressed are Reconstruction, the American West, capital and labor in the age of enterprise, America as an emerging world power, World War I, World War II, the Vietnam Era, the Cold War, and the new world order. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It is recommended for all history majors and satisfies a course requirement for the History for Transfer (AA-T) degree. HIST 144H - History of the United States Since 1865 Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course provides a survey of the political, social, economic, and cultural development of the United States from Reconstruction (1865) to the present. Some topics addressed are Reconstruction, the American West, capital and labor in the age of enterprise, America as an emerging world power, World War I, World War II, the Vietnam Era, the Cold War, and the new world order. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It is recommended for all history majors, satisfies a course requirement for the History for Transfer (AA-T) degree, and is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 156 - Black American Experience to 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course investigates the history of Black Americans from west African origins to the abolition of slavery, roughly dating from the 1400s to 1865. Students examine the ways in which Blacks constructed a distinct African-American culture, influenced by the African past, shared experiences of enslavement, and the experiences of free Blacks. The course also pays close attention to the methods and tactics employed by Blacks to exert control over their lives, highlighting their major successes and achievements despite myriad forms of oppression and discrimination. HIST 157 - Black American Experience Since 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the historical experiences of Black Americans from emancipation to the present, paying close attention to the twentieth century. Students navigate and examine the factors that led to the development of a distinct Black American culture, a legacy of resistance against legal and extralegal inequities, the acquisition of political and economic rights, and Black contributions to the expanding definition of democracy and freedom. HIST 158 - US Comparative History of American Indians and Black Americans (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of the role American Indians and Black Americans have played in the historical development of the United States from the earliest times to the present. The course begins with a study of racism, followed by the history and cultural contributions of American Indians and African Americans. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree (Title 5, Section 40404). The course is intended for students who want to increase their understanding of the history of minorities in the United States. This course also satisfies a course requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). HIST 159 - US Comparative History of Mexican and Asian Americans and Women (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys the roles selected minorities have played in the historical development of the United States from the earliest times to the present. Emphasis is placed on the history and cultural contributions of Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, and American women. This course is intended for students who want to fulfill the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree (Title 5, Section 40404) and CSU requirements, as well as students want to increase their understanding of the history of minorities in the United States. This course is a restricted elective for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer. (AA-T). HIST 159H - US Comparative History of Mexican and Asian Americans and Women Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys the roles selected minorities have played in the historical development of the United States from the earliest times to the present. Emphasis is placed on the history and cultural contributions of Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, and American women. This course is intended for students who want to fulfill the American Institutions requirement for the associate degree (Title 5, Section 40404) and CSU requirements, as well as students want to increase their understanding of the history of minorities in the United States. This course is a restricted elective for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 170 - Women in American History (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys the roles, status, and contributions of women of different ethnic groups and social classes in American society from earliest times to the present, with an emphasis on the twentieth century. Special attention is given to an understanding of how gender has shaped women’s options and expectations within the private and public spheres of society. This course is designed for students who want to learn more about women’s history in America, and is recommended for all history majors. This course also satisfies a course requirement for the Associate in Arts in History for Transfer (AA-T). POLS 125 - Law and Democracy (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course provides an examination and analysis of practical law as it affects people in daily life as citizens in a democracy. It assists in the development of skills to successfully navigate legal systems and in understanding democratic political values. Emphasis is placed on constitutional rights and civil liberties, police encounters and criminal law, local government and advocacy, small claims and traffic courts, landlord/tenant relations, family law, consumer rights, contracts, employment and immigration. Further emphasis is placed on application, critical thinking and problem solving in common legal situations. This course is designed for any student wishing to learn more about the law and its interaction with democratic government and those students wishing to attend law school. It is also a requirement for any student seeking to participate in the Community College Pathway to Law School Initiative. POLS 135 - International Political Economy (Same as ECON 135) (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This is an introductory course designed for students interested in economics and political science, as well as anyone interested in the global interconnectedness of the world economy. The course focuses on the relations between the political and economic systems within the global economy. The course covers the impact of political decisions on world economies and international organizations. Further emphasis is placed on a comparison-contrast of various national economies. Geographic areas of concern include Africa, Europe, the Pacific Rim, the Middle East, Latin America, Russia, China, and the United States. The course is cross-listed as Economics 135 and Political Science 135. Credit is given in either area, not both. ECON 135 - International Political Economy (Same as POLS 135) (3.0 units) Advisory:>It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This is an introductory course designed for students interested in economics and political science, as well as anyone interested in the global interconnectedness of the world economy. The course focuses on the relations between the political and economic systems within the global economy. The course covers the impact of political decisions on world economies and international organizations. Further emphasis is placed on a comparison-contrast of various national economies. Geographic areas of concern include Africa, Europe, the Pacific Rim, the Middle East, Latin America, Russia, China, and the United States. The course is cross-listed as Economics 135 and Political Science 135. Credit is given in either area, not both. POLS 150 - Latinx Politics (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the history and contemporary role of Latinx people in the U.S. political system. Much of the course will explore the migration and political activism of the largest Latinx-origin groups: Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Salvadorean, Dominican, and Guatemalan. The course begins with a review of U.S. demographics and discussion about “Latino” and “Hispanic” as meaningful political terms. Students also learn about the political institutional context in the U.S.; examine the political relationships between Latinx and non-Latinx groups as they relate to political parties, voting coalitions, representation and public policy; and learn how to analyze data on Latinx public opinion, voting behavior, and political attitudes. CHST 150 - Chicana/o/x Politics (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines U.S. history and political issues relevant to the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x community. The course provides an overview of demographic changes in the U.S. and examines political activism and political leadership. Students interested in this course may include individuals with familial or personal connections to the Chicana/o/x (Mexican-American) community and/or those intending to work in environments with high concentrations of this population. | ||
| Select One: PSY 190 / MATH 130 / MATH 130H (IGETC 2)*M | 4.0 | |
PSY 190 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course. This course provides an overview of the types of statistics that are important in the behavioral sciences. It is designed to teach students majoring in psychology, sociology, political science, and anthropology how to present and interpret experimental data. The course focuses on hypothesis testing and the statistics used to analyze assumptions, with topics including basic probability, measures of central tendency, measures of variance, sampling, and inferential statistics. MATH 130 - Statistics (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course. This course is designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. This course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. Students learn to read, interpret, and present data in a well-organized way via a study of frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation, and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, students learn to make generalizations about populations, including probability, sampling techniques, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. MATH 130H - Statistics Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of a pre-statistics or an intermediate algebra course and ENGL 101 This course is designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. This course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. Students learn to read, interpret, and present data in a well-organized way via a study of frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation, and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, students learn to make generalizations about populations, including probability, sampling techniques, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
| IGETC 5A - Physical SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 13.0† | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| IGETC 1C - Oral Communication (CSU Only)GE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
| UC ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 6.0 | |
| 3rd Semester | ||
| Select One: POLS 128 / POLS 128H / POLS 130 / POLS 140 / PHIL 128 / PHIL 128H M | 3.0 | |
POLS 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as PHIL 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. POLS 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as PHIL 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. POLS 130 - Comparative Government (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the political systems of selected industrial democracies, dictatorships, and governments of the developing world. Emphasis is placed on the institutional development and political processes and cultures within these countries. The course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism, and is intended for students interested in the study of foreign governments as well as those who want to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course examines the structure and operation of the international system. Emphasis is placed on the nature and sources of conflict and cooperation, issues of war and peace among states in the international system, and international economic development. The impact of nation-states, international organizations, and non-governmental actors are all examined. This course is suitable for students who wish to expand their knowledge of international politics and for those who wish to major in political science or international relations. PHIL 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as POLS 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. PHIL 128H - Introduction to Political Philosophy Honors (Same as POLS 128H) (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course is for students interested in the relationship between political systems and philosophy, and is especially relevant for students interested in political science, philosophy, and law. The course introduces the history and development of political thought, and considers the justification of the state, interpretations of justice, systems of government, conceptions of rights and distributions of goods, and justification for civil disobedience, among other topics. This course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
| US HISTORY (IGETC 3B)M | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170. | ||
| IGETC 7 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| IGETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| UC ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 15.0† | |
| 4th Semester | ||
| IGETC 5B - Biological SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
| IGETC 5C - Lab ScienceGE | 1.0 | |
Select one if lab has not been completed in IGETC 5A or 5B. | ||
| IGETC 6 - Foreign Language (UC ONLY)GE | 4.5 | |
Notes: Proficiency equivalent to two years of high school study in the same language or select one: | ||
| IGETC 3A or 3B - Arts or HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Arts Humanities | ||
| UC ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 14.5† | |
| Total Units for Political Science AA-T program (Transfer to UC/CSU) | 61.0† | |
| AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
| *PSY 190 is the preferred math/quantitative reasoning course for Behavioral and Social Science majors. Please meet with a counselor to discuss major preparation requirements. |
| † | Some classes may have higher units |
| M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
| GE | General Education course |
| EL | Elective Course |
| Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet. |
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