About this course
Political Science: Understanding Power, Governance, and Society
Course Description
Politics is everywhere — it shapes the way nations are governed, influences the laws we live under, and even determines the opportunities we have as individuals. Yet, for many people, politics is reduced to elections or party rivalries. In reality, political science is much deeper: it is the study of power, authority, institutions, justice, policies, and the relationships between citizens and governments.
This Political Science course is designed for learners who want to understand how societies are governed, how decisions are made, and how individuals and groups influence political outcomes. It combines theoretical foundations with real-world applications, helping students not only grasp the fundamental ideas of politics but also analyze current events, policy debates, and global challenges critically.
Across history, thinkers from Plato and Aristotle to Machiavelli, Rousseau, and Marx have debated the meaning of justice, liberty, and authority. This course introduces those ideas while connecting them to modern issues such as democracy, governance in Africa, global inequality, human rights, international relations, and the role of technology in politics.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will:
Understand the major theories and concepts in political science.
Analyze how governments function at local, national, and international levels.
Explore the historical development of political thought and systems.
Critically evaluate political institutions such as parliaments, courts, and executives.
Understand the role of citizens, political parties, media, and civil society in shaping governance.
Assess the impact of globalization, technology, and international organizations on domestic politics.
Develop the ability to think critically about justice, power, and the distribution of resources.
Who This Course Is For
This course is tailored to a wide range of learners, including:
High school and university students who want to explore political science as a subject or career path.
Aspiring civil servants, policymakers, and leaders who wish to strengthen their understanding of governance.
Activists, NGO workers, and community leaders who want to make informed contributions to society.
Professionals in media, law, and education who require a strong foundation in politics.
Any citizen who wants to understand how governments function and how to be an informed participant in democracy.
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Political Science
What is political science?
Politics as power, authority, and conflict.
Why politics matters in everyday life.
Module 2: Political Theories and Ideologies
Classical political philosophy (Plato, Aristotle, Cicero).
Modern political thinkers (Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx).
Contemporary ideologies: liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism, environmentalism.
Module 3: The State and Governance
What is the state? Origins and theories.
State sovereignty and legitimacy.
Types of government: democracy, authoritarianism, monarchy, theocracy.
Constitutions and the rule of law.
Module 4: Institutions of Government
Legislatures: representation and law-making.
Executives: presidents, prime ministers, cabinets.
Judiciary: courts, justice systems, and constitutional interpretation.
Bureaucracies and public administration.
Module 5: Political Participation and Public Opinion
Elections and electoral systems.
Political parties and party systems.
Pressure groups, interest groups, and civil society.
The role of media and digital technology in shaping political discourse.
Module 6: Comparative Politics
Comparing political systems: democracies vs. autocracies.
Case studies from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Governance challenges in the Global South.
Module 7: International Relations
Global politics and diplomacy.
International organizations: UN, AU, EU, IMF, World Bank.
Globalization and interdependence.
War, peace, and security studies.
Module 8: Political Economy and Development
Politics of economic policy.
Development theories and the politics of aid.
Corruption, inequality, and governance.
Resource politics and sustainability.
Module 9: Politics in Africa
Colonialism and its political legacy.
Democratization and governance challenges.
Regional integration and the African Union.
Case studies: Zambia, South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya.
Module 10: Contemporary Issues in Politics
Human rights and social justice.
Migration, refugees, and global inequality.
Climate change and environmental politics.
The digital age: social media, surveillance, and cyber politics.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing this course, learners will be able to:
Define and explain key concepts in political science.
Apply political theories to understand historical and current events.
Compare different political systems and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
Analyze the role of citizens and institutions in shaping policy.
Critically assess global political challenges and propose solutions.
Teaching & Learning Methods
The course will be delivered through:
Video lectures explaining core concepts.
Interactive discussions and debate forums.
Case studies drawn from global and African contexts.
Quizzes and assignments to reinforce understanding.
Research projects on contemporary political issues.
Assessment & Certification
Quizzes (30%): Multiple-choice and short-answer questions to test knowledge of key concepts.
Assignments (20%): Written reflections and comparative analyses.
Final Project (30%): A research-based essay on a political issue or case study.
Participation (20%): Active involvement in discussions and debates.
Students who successfully complete the course will receive a Walanda Certificate in Political Science — a valuable credential for academic and professional advancement.
Career Opportunities
Political Science opens doors to diverse career paths, including:
Public administration and government service
Policy analysis and think tanks
International organizations and NGOs
Journalism and political commentary
Law and legal studies
Academia and research
Diplomacy and foreign affairs
Graduates will gain not just knowledge, but critical thinking and analytical skills that are valuable in almost any field.
Why Study Political Science at Walanda?
Walanda’s online platform makes learning flexible, accessible, and affordable. Unlike traditional programs, this course allows you to:
Learn at your own pace, anywhere in the world.
Connect with instructors, experts, and fellow students across Africa and beyond.
Access a blend of academic knowledge and real-world perspectives.
Earn a recognized certificate that adds value to your studies or career.
At Walanda, political science is not just about theory — it is about empowering learners to become informed citizens, ethical leaders, and agents of positive change.
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Political Science: Understanding Power, Governance, and Society
Course Description:
Politics is more than elections and government debates — it is the study of power, justice, leadership, and the systems that shape our world. This course introduces learners to the key ideas, theories, and institutions that define political life locally and globally. From classical thinkers like Plato and Rousseau to modern debates on democracy, governance in Africa, globalization, and technology, you will gain the tools to analyze, question, and understand political systems critically.
Through interactive lessons, case studies, and real-world examples, you will explore how decisions are made, how citizens influence change, and how governments respond to challenges such as inequality, human rights, and international cooperation.
By the end of this course, you will not only understand politics — you will see how it shapes your daily life and your future. Whether you are a student, aspiring leader, activist, or professional, this course equips you with critical thinking, research, and communication skills for academic growth and impactful careers.
