Maximum latitude is allowed in constructing a major from courses offered in political science and related departments. In addition to gaining a broad liberal arts education, students who earn this degree receive excellent preparation for advanced graduate study, the foreign service, or professional careers in international affairs, business, or non-profit institutions. The pre-law concentration within the BA in Political Science is unique to Chico. Students can gain extensive experience in paralegal intern programs. The public law intern program gives students practical experience through contact with lawyers, judges, prisoners, and persons in the community.
Students work in areas of the law such as housing, penal, consumer, welfare, and the environment.
Using a simulated courtroom, students participate in mock trials and moot courts. The program places special emphasis on public law as reflected in courses such as civil rights and civil liberties, administrative law, and administration of justice. Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate A growing number of public and private institutions are using alternative dispute resolution as a means of solving conflicts. This new interdisciplinary program provides specialized course work and directed internships which concentrate on such things as mediation and arbitration. Under a lawyers supervision, students engage in research, conduct interviews and investigations, and represent clients before administrative agencies.