This programme provides students with a strong foundation in both political science and sociology. It offers a complementary way of understanding major political and social developments. It also provides a foundation for higher studies with the opportunity to acquire important academic skills. This course enables the students to understand political philosophy and management within the context of society. Students can look forward to a variety of jobs with the government and NGOs.

Programme Handbook - see complete programme details here

Curriculum Map 

Modules and Prescribed Textbooks for Semester 1* 

*Students interested in pre-purchasing any of these textbooks should verify with the Academic Affairs Department whether there have been any changes to the recommended textbook list, one month in advance of the semester start date.

**No recommended textbook

• ACS 101 Textbook: A course pack on Academic skills will be available for purchase at the college.

Political Science

Political Science (also known as Political Studies) involves the study of systems and theories of government both past and present. In a broader sense, it seeks to determine the role of politics and political activity in human society and relationships. Political science is one of the social sciences and as such is closely related to disciplines such as sociology, public administration, history, ethics, and anthropology. International relations studies and conflict and war studies have at their heart a basic understanding of political forces.

This is one of the oldest subjects of academic and practical interest although it has only been recently introduced in Bhutan. The introduction of this subject is appropriate as Bhutan enters a process of political transformation. This programme provides a critical understanding of the issues related to political philosophy, institutions, and international relations. Students can concentrate on political theory, and political economy, look at politics across cultures (comparatively) or study how it is shaped by social realities such as gender and class. Those with leadership skills and a desire of contributing to the socio-political development of the country will find this subject helps guide and sharpen necessary political and communication skills.

Obviously, students with a background in political science might eventually choose to become involved in politics themselves. However, there are other career paths and areas of specialisation available, such as consulting, policy and market research and analysis, diplomacy, political economy, and international development. A career in law is often well begun with an undergraduate degree in political science.

Sociology

Sociology is the science of human society and of social relations, organization, and change; specifically, the study of the beliefs, values, etc., of societal groups and of the processes governing social phenomena (Webster's New World Dictionary, Third College Edition, 1988).

Through this programme, students of Sociology can explore the sociology of gender, the labor force, urban populations, politics, deviance, health, social control and repression, human rights, culture, and technology. This field attempts to explain and predict human behavior through the emergence and interaction of social systems.

This programme is based on an interdisciplinary approach to learning. The course content primarily focuses on the theoretical frameworks and concepts used by sociologists to interpret social phenomena. Simultaneously, it equips students with the tools necessary for analyzing social trends and investigating social problems. It has an inbuilt structure for sociological research. The study of sociology provides the necessary support for any socio-economic development process, which in turn makes sociologists relevant to all areas of human involvement and development.

Graduates of Sociology will find career opportunities in the civil service, media, NGOs (national and international), education, legislative sector, information and communication sector, socio-cultural organizations, private and corporate sector, and political organizations.