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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate assessment; READ 043 or appropriate assessment 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 ResearchGE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays and reports necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in research techniques, and learn critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original essays and a final research paper. The lab component of the course is designed to assist students in improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete lab 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 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: POLS 128 / PHIL 128 / POLS 128H / POLS 130 / POLS 140 (CSU GE D)M | 3.0 | |
POLS 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as PHIL 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as POLS 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate assessment; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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. This course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism.This course is intended for the student interested in the study of foreign governments and for those who wish to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 M | 3.0 | |
ECON 101 - Principles of Macroeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 050 or MATH 050D or MATH 053 or appropriate placement This is an introductory course in which students learn to describe and analyze the performance and policies of national economic systems, with an emphasis on the US economy. It is intended for Economics or Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; 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; MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or appropriate placement This is an introductory course in which students learn to describe and analyze the performance and policies of national economic systems, with an emphasis on the US economy. It is intended for Economics or Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; 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 102 - Principles of Microeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 050 or MATH 050D or MATH 053 or appropriate placement This is an introductory course in economic analysis of markets, intended for Economics and Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements. It may be taken prior to ECON 101. Students will learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers in an economy, various causes of the failure of free markets and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. ECON 102H - Principles of Microeconomics Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101; MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or appropriate placement Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ECON 102 or ECON 102H) This is an introductory course in economic analysis of markets, intended for Economics and Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements, and may be taken by any student who has completed ENGL 101 with a "C" or better. It may be taken prior to ECON 101. Students will learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers in an economy, various causes of the failure of free markets and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. Students will do a research project on an actual economic policy or a theoretical view. 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 030 or ENLA 034 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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, 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 with a grade of "C" or better 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, 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 and is intended for those who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 156 - Black American Experience to 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 030 or ENLA 034 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement This survey investigates the history of African Americans from their west African origins to the abolition of slavery, roughly dating from the 1400s to 1865. In this course, students will 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. This course will also pay 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: ENGL 030 or ENLA 034 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement This course examines the historical experiences of black Americans from emancipation to the present, paying close attention to the 20th century. This course will 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 & Women Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 with a grade of "C" or better 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 - Chicana/o/x Politics (Same as CHST 150) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 appropriate placement This course examines United States history and political issues relevant to the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x communities. 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. CHST 150 - Chicana/o/x Politics (Same as POLS 150) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: MATH 062 or MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or appropriate placement This course provides an overview of the types of statistics that are important in the behavioral sciences. The main focus of this course is on hypothesis testing and the statistics that are used to analyze it. Students will learn to present and interpret experimental data from the behavioral sciences. Topics covered include basic probability, measures of central tendency, measures of variance, sampling, and inferential statistics. This course is designed for students majoring in psychology, sociology, political science, and anthropology. NOTE: MATH 62 or MATH 73 can be used to fulfill the prerequisite requirement for this class. Some majors require that students take MATH 73 (not MATH 62) and others do not. Students should see a counselor to determine which pathway will work best for them. MATH 130 - Statistics (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 062 or MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or MATH 073B with a grade of "C" or better or appropriate placement This course is designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. This course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. The students learn to read, interpret and present data in a well-organized way. This includes frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, the students learn to make generalizations about populations. This includes probability, sampling techniques, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. MATH 130H - Statistics Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 062 or MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or MATH 073B with a grade of "C" or better or appropriate placement; Minimum GPA of 3.0; 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. The students learn to read, interpret and present data in a well-organized way. This includes frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, the students learn to make generalizations about populations. This includes 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,140 | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 6.0† | |
| 3rd Semester | ||
| Select One: POLS 128 / PHIL 128 / POLS 128H / PHIL 128H / POLS 130 / POLS 140 M | 3.0 | |
POLS 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as PHIL 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 128 - Introduction to Political Philosophy (Same as POLS 128) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 101; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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. 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 130 - Comparative Government (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate assessment; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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. This course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism.This course is intended for the student interested in the study of foreign governments and for those who wish to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 D)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 C2 - HumanitiesGE | 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† | |
Rio Hondo College does not currently have any courses approved for CSU GE Area F: Ethnic Studies. Students who begin and maintain continuous enrollment at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2021 will not be required to complete a course in Area F. Instead, these students will complete Area D (9 units from at least two disciplines). New students starting at Rio Hondo College beginning Fall 2021 or later and returning students who have not maintained continuous enrollment will be required to complete a course in Area F in addition to completing two courses (6 units) in Area D from any discipline or disciplines. Please see a counselor for updates and to discuss options for satisfying this requirement. |
| 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate assessment; READ 043 or appropriate assessment 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 ResearchGE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays and reports necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in research techniques, and learn critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original essays and a final research paper. The lab component of the course is designed to assist students in improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete lab 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 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; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate assessment; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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. This course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism.This course is intended for the student interested in the study of foreign governments and for those who wish to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: MATH 050 or MATH 050D or MATH 053 or appropriate placement This is an introductory course in which students learn to describe and analyze the performance and policies of national economic systems, with an emphasis on the US economy. It is intended for Economics or Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; 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; MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or appropriate placement This is an introductory course in which students learn to describe and analyze the performance and policies of national economic systems, with an emphasis on the US economy. It is intended for Economics or Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements. Topics include production possibilities and tradeoffs; comparative economic systems; 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 102 - Principles of Microeconomics (3.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 050 or MATH 050D or MATH 053 or appropriate placement This is an introductory course in economic analysis of markets, intended for Economics and Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements. It may be taken prior to ECON 101. Students will learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers in an economy, various causes of the failure of free markets and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. ECON 102H - Principles of Microeconomics Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101; MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or appropriate placement Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ECON 102 or ECON 102H) This is an introductory course in economic analysis of markets, intended for Economics and Business majors as well as to satisfy General Education requirements, and may be taken by any student who has completed ENGL 101 with a "C" or better. It may be taken prior to ECON 101. Students will learn how markets work to coordinate consumers and producers in an economy, various causes of the failure of free markets and policies used to correct or regulate market behavior. Students will do a research project on an actual economic policy or a theoretical view. HIST 143 - History of the United States to 1877 (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 030 or ENLA 034 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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, 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 with a grade of "C" or better 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, 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 and is intended for those who meet Honors Program requirements. HIST 156 - Black American Experience to 1865 (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 030 or ENLA 034 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement This survey investigates the history of African Americans from their west African origins to the abolition of slavery, roughly dating from the 1400s to 1865. In this course, students will 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. This course will also pay 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: ENGL 030 or ENLA 034 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement This course examines the historical experiences of black Americans from emancipation to the present, paying close attention to the 20th century. This course will 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 & Women Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 with a grade of "C" or better 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 - Chicana/o/x Politics (Same as CHST 150) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 appropriate placement This course examines United States history and political issues relevant to the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x communities. 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. CHST 150 - Chicana/o/x Politics (Same as POLS 150) (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 2A)*M | 4.0 | |
PSY 190 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 062 or MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or appropriate placement This course provides an overview of the types of statistics that are important in the behavioral sciences. The main focus of this course is on hypothesis testing and the statistics that are used to analyze it. Students will learn to present and interpret experimental data from the behavioral sciences. Topics covered include basic probability, measures of central tendency, measures of variance, sampling, and inferential statistics. This course is designed for students majoring in psychology, sociology, political science, and anthropology. NOTE: MATH 62 or MATH 73 can be used to fulfill the prerequisite requirement for this class. Some majors require that students take MATH 73 (not MATH 62) and others do not. Students should see a counselor to determine which pathway will work best for them. MATH 130 - Statistics (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 062 or MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or MATH 073B with a grade of "C" or better or appropriate placement This course is designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. This course provides an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics. The students learn to read, interpret and present data in a well-organized way. This includes frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, the students learn to make generalizations about populations. This includes probability, sampling techniques, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests. MATH 130H - Statistics Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 062 or MATH 070 or MATH 070D or MATH 073 or MATH 073B with a grade of "C" or better or appropriate placement; Minimum GPA of 3.0; 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. The students learn to read, interpret and present data in a well-organized way. This includes frequency distributions, graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, correlation and linear regression. While discussing inferential statistics, the students learn to make generalizations about populations. This includes 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; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate assessment; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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. This course features an examination of current political problems and a comparison of such differing ideologies as Marxism, democracy, theocracy, and totalitarianism.This course is intended for the student interested in the study of foreign governments and for those who wish to major in political science. POLS 140 - International Relations (3.0 units) Advisory: ENGL 035 or ENLA 100 or appropriate placement; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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; READ 043 or appropriate placement 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 4)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 3B - HumanitiesGE | 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. |
Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.
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