The Political Science major must complete course work in the four major subfields of the discipline: American Politics, International Relations, Comparative Politics, and Political Theory. A major in Political Science requires the completion of GOVT 101, 105, 250, 252, 355, 391, 412 or 413 or 414, 416, GOVT elective, and 18 hours of concentration courses at the 300+ level.

No more than 6 hours of internship credit may be applied toward the requirements for a major in Political Science. A minor from another field of interest is encouraged. Students must select a concentration within the major between Legal Studies and International Politics. Students with interest in Law School are encouraged to select the Legal Studies concentration. All Political Science majors must successfully complete the Political Science capstone examination in order to graduate.

Minor

A minor in Political Science requires the completion of 18 hours to include GOVT 101, and 15 hours of Government electives (12 hours must be at the 300+ level). No more than 6 hours of internship credit may be applied toward the requirements for a minor in Political Science.

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science

• International Politics Concentration (POLI)
• Legal Studies Concentration (POLL)

Suggested Course Sequence:

*Recommend complete as Freshman (1), Sophomore (2), Junior (3), Senior (4)

Legal Studies Concentration (POLL) 18 semester hours from the following:

International Politics Concentration (POLI) 18 semester hours from the following:

GOVT 101. American National Government. 3-3-0. The principles, structure, and functions of the national government of the United States. [LCCN: POLI 2013] (45.1001)

GOVT 105. Fundamental Issues of Politics. 3-3-0. Core issues of politics. (45.1001)

GOVT 111. Honors American National Government. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Honors placement or permission of department head. An in-depth analysis of the principles, structure, and functions of the national government of the United States. Degree credit will not be given for both GOVT 101 and GOVT 111. (45.1001)

GOVT 250. Contemporary Political Ideologies. 3-3-0. The moral problems of politics within the context of liberalism, conservatism, marxism and other contemporary ideological movements. (45.1001)

GOVT 252. State and Local Government. 3-3-0. State and local governmental organization and administration, with emphasis on Louisiana government. [LCCN: POLI 2113] (45.1001)

GOVT 300. Political Analysis. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Government major. Foundations and use of scientific method; approaches to a science of politics; problems of research design; methods of political inquiry. (45.1001)

GOVT 302. American Political Behavior. 3-3-0. The political process of the American electoral system; public opinion; nominations, interest groups, and parties. (45.1001)

GOVT 325. Southern Politics in America. 3-3-0. An analysis of both historical and contemporary perspectives of the politics of the American South. Topics include regional politics, political culture, party politics, and racial politics. Emphasizes changes in the culture and politics of the Southern region and the rise of the “New South.” (54.0199)

GOVT 332. Topics in Politics of Asia. 3-3-0. Theory, organization methods and structure of the basic types of governments operating in Asia today. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (45.1001)

GOVT 333. Topics in Politics of Europe. 3-3-0. Theory, organization methods and structure of the basic types of governments operating in Europe today. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (45.1001)

GOVT 351. American Political Thought. 3-3-0. Development of the American liberal-democratic tradition from the colonial period to present. Emphasis on the founding period and the arguments for and against the Constitution. (45.1001)

GOVT 355. Political Theory. 3-3-0. Major political ideas from the Greeks to the present. (45.1001)

GOVT 365. Problems in American Politics. 3-3-0. Particular topics or problems in American politics. May be repeated for credit once if content differs. (45.1001)

GOVT 385. Public Administration. 3-3-0. Bureaucracy in the political system, including personnel and budgetary problems. (44.0401)

GOVT 387. Public Policy. 3-3-0. Process by which public policy is made, implemented, and evaluated, with emphasis on issues such as race, economic growth, public education, and industrial policy. (44.0501)

GOVT 391. International Relations and Politics. 3-3-0. Significant problems of world politics including such concepts as imperialism, theories of international relations and law, balance of power, international morality, sovereignty, diplomacy, problems of peace, disarmament, international organizations, trends toward world government, and a contemporary survey of world affairs. (45.0901)

GOVT 399. Civil Liberties. 3-3-0. Nature and scope of constitutional rights and liberties. Emphasis on due process of law, equal protection of the law, rights of the accused and briefing law cases. (45.1001)

GOVT 400. Constitutional Law. 3-3-0. American constitutional development with emphasis given to the landmark decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court in such selected areas as commerce, taxation, foreign affairs, and civil rights. (45.1001)

GOVT 412. Contemporary Political Criticism. 3-3-0. How contemporary theorists perceive the problems of political order, justice, freedom, and equality. (45.1001)

GOVT 413. Ancient and Medieval Political Thought. 3-3-0. An examination of key texts from Greek, Roman, and Christian political thinkers. (45.1001)

GOVT 414. Modern Political Thought. 3-3-0. Examination of key texts from prominent political thinkers from the 16^th to 20^th centuries. (45.1001)

GOVT 416. Comparative Government. 3-3-0. Theory, organization methods and structure of the basic types of governments operating in the world today. (45.1001)

GOVT 421. American Foreign Policy. 3-3-0. Development of American foreign policy with emphasis on the problems that evolved after World War II due to the conflict between Communist bloc and Western Democratic nations. (45.0901)

GOVT 422. Topics in International Relations. 3-3-0. Special Topics in International Relations; national and international problems, internal political change, with reference to relationships with the United States. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (45.1001)

GOVT 423. International Terrorism. 3-3-0. Examination of modern terrorism, with a particular emphasis on its causes and policy implications. (45.1001)

GOVT 440. Science and Politics. 3-3-0. The fundamental political issues related to science and technology. (45.1001)

GOVT 457. The American Congress. 3-3-0. A detailed examination of the workings of the national legislature. Emphasis will be on development, selection process, internal workings and proceedings, relationship with constituents and the other branches, and its policy making role. (45.1001)

GOVT 458. The American Presidency. 3-3-0. An overview of the American presidency. Emphasis on development, selection process, presidential constituents, its policy making role, and possible reforms. (45.1001)

GOVT 494. Women and Government Internship. 12-0-24. Prerequisite: Junior standing. Acceptance into the program is competitive and accompanied by scholarship. Students supplement their in class education with practical experience gained through full time work in or related to the public sector. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and GOVT 497 or 498. No more than 6 hours of internship credit may be applied toward the requirements for a Minor in Government. (45.1001)

GOVT 497. Governmental Internship. 6-0-12. Prerequisites: Government major, junior standing, and permission of the department head. Practical experience gained through part time work in a government agency. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and GOVT 494 or 498. No more than 6 hours of internship credit may be applied toward the requirements for a Minor in Government. (45.1001)

GOVT 498. Pre Law Internship. 6-0-12. Prerequisites: Government major, junior standing, and permission of the department head. Entrance to internship program is competitive. Practical experience gained through part time work with a law firm, court or district attorney’s office. Each student must first be recommended by the faculty, then be interviewed and accepted by the employing agency. Credit toward graduation may not be earned in this course and GOVT 494 or 497. No more than 6 hours of internship credit may be applied toward the requirements for a Minor in Government. (45.1001)

GOVT 499. Seminar in Political Science. 3-3-0. Research on a special problem in one of the areas of government. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (45.1001)

Social Work majors are required to complete 42 credit hours to include: SOWK 101, 102, 240, 280, 300, 305, 306, 345, 346, 380, 401, 403, and 404 with a grade of C or better. Social Work majors will complete 480 hours of field internship with a grade of C or higher to comply with CSWE accreditation standards. All Social Work majors must pass the Social Work capstone exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to graduate.

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Work

• Applied Case Management Concentration (SWCM)

Suggested Course Sequence:

*Recommend complete as Freshman (1), Sophomore (2), Junior (3), Senior (4)

** 40 semester hours number 300 or above are required.

++ Must have a C or better

Applied Case Management Concentration (SWCM): 21 semester hours from the following:

SOWK 101. Introduction Social Work. 3-3-0. A systematic overview of the structure of social service provision at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of society. Social work concepts of client advocacy and empowerment, resource allocation, and the effect of social policy on the individual. Soci-poli-economic issues are examined. (44.0701)

SOWK 102. Social Welfare. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in SOWK 101. Examines the history, functions, policies, and ethics associated with the social welfare system. Participants will discuss specific issues associated with the management of programs and systems supporting disadvantaged populations. Focuses on children and family supportive services. (44.0701)

SOWK 240. Social Work Skills and Interviewing Techniques. 3-3-0. An applied learning course focusing on evidence-based motivational interviewing techniques to facilitate patient/client change. Use of case studies, vignettes, and recorded role play sessions to evaluate personal interview skills. (44.0701)

SOWK 280. Human Behavior in the Social Environment I. 3-3-0. Study of individual and social behavior over the life-span and application of social work theories and perspectives. General Systems Theory is applied to ethno-cultural issues in a construct which enables the student to describe the range and nature of social interactions. (44.0701)

SOWK 300. Human Diversity and Social Justice. 3-3-0. Focuses on the principles and skill sets of multicultural social work practice. A historical review of sociopolitical forces and its consequences on marginalized groups is explored with discussions of current policy practice. Each student completes a client file demonstrating cultural competence with diverse populations. (44.0701)

SOWK 305. Social Research. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in SOCI 225 and 3 hours of non-developmental MATH. Advanced concepts and applications of social science research methods and data analysis techniques. The student will apply descriptive and inferential statistics used in data analysis focusing on Social Work evidence-based practice and interventions. (44.0701)

SOWK 306. Generalist Social Work Practice. 3-3-0. Skills for entry level human service provision. Case management, effective communication, and inter-agency relations are presented with application to case history. (44.0701)

SOWK 325. Medical Social Work. 3-3-0. Examination of the significance of social and cultural factors in the production, service, delivery, and utilization of health care. Students are introduced to biopsychosocial assessments in medical settings and appropriate resource referrals. Interdisciplinary team work models are examined and the student participates in role play activities and panel discussions. (44.0701)

SOWK 345. Social Work Practice I. 3-3-0. Focuses on the foundational core concepts of social work education. Students will learn ethical and professional behavior, human rights advocacy, how to engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Assessment strategies and evidence-based practice are explored. (44.0701)

SOWK 346. Social Work Practice II. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in SOWK 345. Study of concepts of social activism and progressive organizing relative to grass roots movements and the process of societal change. Organizational models are examined and applied in a real-world setting. (44.0701)

SOWK 380. Human Behavior in the Social Environment II. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in SOWK 280. Introduces the student to theories and perspectives of human development to analyze the relationship between individuals and macro systems. The impact of complex social institutions and structures on individuals, groups, and organizations are explored. Students are given the skills necessary to engage with clients and client systems to promote social and economic justice. (44.0701)

SOWK 387. Substance Abuse. 3-3-0. Causes, processes, and consequences of the use and abuse of legal and illicit substances. Social work theories and treatment models are explored and the student will apply case management skills in assessment, diagnosis, and service referrals. The Strengths-Based and Person-in-Environment Models are applied to addiction therapy and recovery in a case management final project. (44.0701)

SOWK 391. Families and Children. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in SOWK 102, 325, and 346. Focuses on generalist practice with families and children. Students will apply the ecological model of helping families and children, utilize different intervention methods, and assess family needs in different circumstances in a changing world. The student will complete a series of case management scenarios through role-play and video assessments. (44.0701)

SOWK 401. Social Work Policy and Practice. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: C or better in SOCI 102, 300, and 306. Builds on the foundation knowledge of social work and focuses on political elements and policy development. Students examine and critically analyze social policy formulation in a comparative historical context. (44.0701)

SOWK 403. Field Practice I. 3-0-12. Prerequisite: Junior standing and SWRK major. Provides an opportunity for students to apply social work theory and perspectives in generalist social work practice with individuals, families, communities, and groups. A minimum of 200 clock hours will be in an approved agency setting. (44.0701)

SOWK 404. Field Practice II. 3-3-12. Prerequisite: Senior standing and C or better in SOWK 403. Provides an opportunity for students to apply social work theory and perspectives in generalist social work practice with individuals, families, communities, and groups. A minimum of 200 clock hours will be in an approved agency setting. (44.0701)

SOWK 410. DSM-5 Generalist Practice Diagnosis. 3-3-0. Introduction to the three major sections of the DSM-5 manual. The student will become familiar with terms and diagnostic criteria. Experiential learning experiences using vignettes and videos aid the student in assessment and diagnosis skills for social work generalist practice.  (44.0701)

SOWK 424. Trauma and Disaster. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: C or better in SOWK 101, 280, and 401. An advanced course that surveys institutions, federal policies, and historical trends in disaster response management. Students will complete specific FEMA-NIMS, CDC-ERHMS, and Red Cross certifications as a major component of course work. The life-disrupting effects of natural and man-made disasters will be discussed and the student will apply current assessment and therapeutic models for trauma impacted individuals, groups, and organizations. (44.0701)

Frequently Asked Questions: Majoring in Social Work

What’s the difference between a BSW and a degree in sociology, psychology, or human services?

A BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) is a professional degree that prepares students for direct practice in the field, including case management, advocacy, and connecting clients with resources. Sociology and psychology focus more on theory and research, while human services programs may be broader but less specialized in preparing for licensure.

What courses will I take as a social work major?

Typical coursework includes human behavior, social welfare policy, diversity and oppression, research methods, and practice courses. Nicholls offers a variety of electives in Social Work and related fields (hyperlink here). You’ll also complete supervised fieldwork in community agencies.

How much fieldwork or internship experience is required?

Nicholls requires 480 hours of supervised fieldwork for the BSW, giving you hands-on experience in real-world settings.

Is the program CSWE accredited, and why does accreditation matter?

Nicolls is currently working towards accreditation. Accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) ensures your degree meets national standards and properly prepares you to succeed in an accredited MSW program.

What kinds of jobs can I get with a bachelor’s degree in social work?

BSW graduates often work as case managers, family service workers, residential counselors, community outreach coordinators, or probation officers.

Do I need to go to graduate school right away, or can I work first?

You can do either. Many students work in the field to gain experience before returning for an MSW, while others go directly into graduate programs.

What specialties are available in social work?

Specialties include clinical social work, school social work, medical social work, child and family services, mental health, gerontology, and policy/advocacy.

How does social work differ from counseling or psychology in terms of career options?

Social work emphasizes connecting people with resources and addressing systemic barriers, while counseling and psychology focus more on diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.

What is the typical salary range for social workers?

Salaries vary by role and location, but the median annual wage for social workers in the U.S. is around $55,000. Clinical roles with an MSW typically pay more than entry-level positions.

Is there demand for social workers in the job market?

Yes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is projected to grow faster than average, particularly in healthcare and mental health services.

What are the work hours and conditions like?

Many social workers work full-time, with some evening or weekend hours depending on client needs. Some roles involve field visits, while others are office-based.

Is social work an emotionally draining career? How do professionals manage burnout?

It can be challenging, but most programs teach self-care strategies and professional boundaries. Supportive supervision and peer networks also help manage stress.

Can social workers move into leadership, advocacy, or policy roles?

Yes. Many social workers advance into supervisory, administrative, or policy-making positions, especially with an MSW or additional credentials.

What kinds of people are best suited for social work?

People who are empathetic, resilient, good listeners, and committed to social justice and advocacy tend to thrive in social work.

Do I need to be an extrovert to succeed in this field?

No. Both introverts and extroverts can succeed. What matters is your ability to build trust, communicate effectively, and advocate for clients.

How much does social work focus on social justice and advocacy?

Social justice is central to social work’s mission. Students learn to challenge inequality, advocate for marginalized groups, and work toward systemic change.

Will I be able to make a real difference in people’s lives?

Yes. Social workers help individuals, families, and communities navigate challenges and access resources. Even small actions can have a lasting impact.

How do I know if social work is the right major for me versus psychology, sociology, or education?

If you’re drawn to hands-on helping roles, advocacy, and systems-level change, social work may be a strong fit. If you’re more interested in research, teaching, or therapy exclusively, psychology, sociology, or education may be better suited.

The following are great analogies to help you determine the difference between Psychology and Social Work:

The Storm & the Shelter Analogy
Psychology is like studying the storm- analyzing the weather patterns, understanding why it forms, and predicting its behavior.
Social Work is like building the shelter- helping people find safety, stability, and resources during and after the storm.

Psychology seeks to understand the internal forces; social work helps people navigate external challenges.

The Mechanic vs. the Roadside Rescuer
A psychologist is like a mechanic who diagnoses what’s going wrong inside the engine (mind) and works to fix it.
A social worker is like the roadside rescuer who not only helps you get back on the road but also makes sure you have gas, insurance, and a safe route home.

Psychology focuses on diagnosis and treatment; social work focuses on holistic support and advocacy.

The Microscope vs. the Map
Psychology uses a microscope to zoom in on individual thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
Social Work uses a map to navigate systems- healthcare, housing, education- and guide people through them.

Psychology is introspective; social work is systemic and action-oriented.

The Researcher vs. the Advocate
A psychologist might study why someone feels isolated.
A social worker might help that person find community resources, housing, or legal support to overcome isolation.

One seeks understanding; the other seeks change.

The Coach vs. the Quarterback
A psychologist is like a coach who helps you understand your strengths, weaknesses, and mental game.
A social worker is like the quarterback who’s in the field with you, calling plays, adapting to challenges, and helping you move forward.

Psychology guides from the sidelines; social work gets in the game with you.

 The Sociology Minor requires the completion of 18 credit hours to include Sociology 151, and 15 credit hours from upper level SOCI classes (300 and 400).

Most law schools require the baccalaureate degree before admission. The College of Liberal Arts recommends a degree in political science since it is by far the most common major of those admitted into law school. We have recently placed students into the law programs at Southern University, Louisiana State University, Loyola, and the University of Southern California, often with scholarships. In the fall of their senior year, prospective law school students should take the Law School Aptitude Test (L.S.A.T.). In addition to the course requirements for the major, students should consider scheduling:

• FACS 400 – The Family and Law

• GOVT 399 – Civil Liberties
• GOVT 400 – Constitutional Law
• BSAD 221 – Legal Environment of Business
• BSAD 324 – Commercial Law

• MACO 370 – Law and Ethics of Mass Communication

The university awards a minor in international studies to students who successfully complete. It is a particularly good choice for Political Science and Sociology majors.

18 semester hours, including History 151 and 15 semester hours to be chosen from the humanities, social sciences and business concentrations listed below. The 15 hours require successful completion of:
six semester hours from two of the three concentrations listed below
and three semester hours from the remaining concentration.

Required Course

Geography 104 — World Regional Geography (3)

Humanities Concentration

Art 383 — Art History Survey (1900-Present) (3)
**English 410 — World Literature I (3)
**English 411 — World Literature II (3)
History 307 — Modern East Asia (3)
History 309 — Modern Middle East and South Asia (3)
History 334 — 20th Century Europe (3)
History 382 — English History (3)
History 393 — French History (3)
**History 400 — Russian History (3)
History 425 — Hitler and Nazi Germany (3)

Social Sciences Concentration

Government 331 — Topics and Dynamics of Third World Politics (3)
Government 391 — International Relations and Politics (3)
Government 416 — Comparative Government (3)
Government 421 — American Foreign Policy (3)
Sociology 324 — Social Stratification (3)
Sociology 360 — Population Demographics and Dynamics (3)
Sociology 372 — Special Topics: Dynamics of Change in Latin America (3)
Sociology 391 — Racial and Ethnic Relations (3)
Sociology 404 — Social and Cultural Change (3)
Sociology 405 — Globalization (3)

Business Concentration

Agricultural Science 105 — World Agriculture (3)
**Economics 435 — Principles of International Trade (3)
**Finance 450 — International France (3)
**Marketing 475 — Global Marketing (3)
Petroleum Services Technology 302 — Intercultural Communication (3)

** requires prerequisite(s)