Political Science

This course offers an intermediate-level grounding in contemporary British politics and government. Students will learn about the UK's political constitution, sovereign parliament, electoral politics, public debate, cabinet government, civil service and devolved and local administrations. Students develop a breadth and depth of knowledge, and a range of capabilities, that prepare them to pursue careers in Westminster, Whitehall and beyond.

This is an introductory course in international relations. It introduces the core concepts and theories of international relations. It covers the most pressing political problems and challenges of the current international system and various topics in international relations, such as wars and other conflicts, globalization and economic crisis, humanitarian interventions, and climate change. The course is organized under the four broad themes: theoretical foundations, international security, international political economy, and politics of global commons. Under each theme, most lectures focus on a substantially important question in international relations, such as why wars occur, what the effects of international trade and finances are on the welfare of citizens, and why it is hard to achieve cooperation in solving global environmental problems. 

This course provides an overview of contemporary Japanese politics via Public (Rational) Choice Theory which emphasizes major political actors such as voters, parliamentarians, special interest groups, and national bureaucrats. This class describes and discusses some of the basic aspects of Japanese politics, currently undergoing a drastic transformation due to societal changes and globalization. The course covers the following topics: Public (Rational) Choice Theory, along with its strengths and weaknesses; democracy in Japan; party politics; the electoral system and voting participation; Japan's population issues; Japan's defense and foreign policy; Japan's food and energy problems, and current topics in Japanese politics and foreign policy.

This research internship program offers selected students the opportunity to participate in research projects or work as an intern in research centers or organizations at Yonsei University. Students are expected to participate in research projects for approximately 20 hours per week throughout the program. Projects will vary depending on placement. Graded Pass/No pass only.