Department of Political Science

Overview

Course
Political Science & International Relations
Career Opportunities in Political Science & International Relations
City University Learning Outcomes (CULOS)
Political Science & International Relations Department
Department Learning Outcomes
Faculty and Instructors
Degree Requirements
Foundation Program (Government Mandated)
City University Core Courses
Structure of the Program

Courses

BACHELOR OF ARTS – POLITICAL SCIENCE

Political Science & International Relations

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations program at City University of Mogadishu prepares students for successful careers in all levels of government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. This program is the first of its kind in the country. The objective of the program is to train public servants, diplomats, and leaders. Students will specialize in international relations.

Career Opportunities in Political Science & International Relations

What is political science? In general, political science is an academic discipline that focuses on studying power, politics, and government. It has several branches. Since Somalia is recovering from a long conflict, City University will offer a specialization in international relations.

Political Science and International Relations graduates have several career options. They can work in the bureaucracy as policy analysts or policy advisors. Those who want to continue their studies can also specialize in law or become academics. Moreover, many political science graduates choose to work in not-for-profit organizations, media, or the private sector.

Political Science & International Relations graduates formulate and implement policies in the public sector. They also often develop, implement, and evaluate social programs and services.

City University Learning Outcomes (CULOS)

City University Learning Outcomes (CULOS) are general, transferable knowledge and skills that every City University graduate is expected to have met, regardless of the degree program. City University Learning Outcomes are developed through integrated curricular and co-curricular student experiences. These outcomes are achieved throughout the foundation program, the university-wide core courses, the degree program courses, and student experiences outside the classroom.

Critical thinking: City University graduates will be able to engage in inquiry, value examination, and creative problem-solving.
Communication: City University graduates will be able to communicate effectively and clearly, both orally and in writing.
Leadership & teamwork: City University graduates will be able to participate constructively and interact effectively with others to accomplish common goals.
Technological competence: City University graduates will be able to properly use and evaluate technology in their professions, both ethically and securely.
Research: City University graduates will be able to systematically investigate a research question, exploring, collecting, and analyzing evidence to establish facts and make informed conclusions.
Global awareness: City University graduates will be able to explain globalization and its impact on them and their society while understanding their own and other cultures and reacting to differences in an enlightened and socially responsible manner.
Local/National & Islamic awareness: City University graduates will be able to discuss the main features of Islamic civilization, as well as the history and socio-politics of the Somali people.
Language: City University graduates will be able to communicate fluently in Somali and English, using the academic and professional conventions of these languages.

Political Science & International Relations Department

The Political Science Department, through its interdisciplinary program, prepares students for careers in government, media, research, teaching, and the private sector.

Department Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the program, students will be able to:

Subject-Matter Competency: Master and apply major theories, concepts, and methods of political science and its sub-fields to analyze global, regional, and national political issues and events.
Critical Thinking: Identify and critically assess arguments, evidence, and assumptions behind political positions and claims.
Leadership and Teamwork: Develop leadership capacity and social responsibility through volunteer community service programs and internship projects.
Research: Demonstrate competency in using social science research methods, including quantitative and qualitative methods.
Communication: Develop effective oral and written communication competency.
Global Awareness: Demonstrate the ability to make global-local links.

Delivery Mode

City University Learning Outcomes guide the development of degree programs and course-level learning outcomes.

Faculty and Instructors

Oyetola Oniwide

Oyetola Oniwide is a Professor of Public Administration and currently serves as the Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at the City University of Mogadishu. With over twenty years of research and teaching experience in Nigeria and Uganda, his interests lie in public policy, human resource management, local government administration, corporate governance, and development administration. Professor Oniwide has extensively published in these areas of Political Science and Public Administration in international journals and books.

Afyare A. Elmi

Afyare Elmi is a research professor at the City University of Mogadishu. He is also a research fellow at the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Mogadishu. Elmi was previously an Associate Professor at Qatar University’s Gulf Studies Program. In addition to his book, Understanding the Somalia Conflagration: Identity, Political Islam, and Peacebuilding (Pluto Press), he has authored or co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications and a dozen policy papers. Dr. Elmi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from Ryerson University, a Master of Arts in Political Science from Brock University, a second Master of Arts in Education Policy from the University of Toronto, and a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Alberta. He has also provided commentaries and published opinion/editorial articles in some of the leading international media outlets including the New York Times, International Herald Tribune, Boston Globe, Al-Jazeera, Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star.

Abdulkadir Moalim Mohamed Gedi

Dr. Abdulkadir Moalim Mohamed Gedi is a senior lecturer and researcher at the City University of Mogadishu with extensive experience in political science, social sciences, and peace and conflict management. He has held academic positions at several universities, including the International University of Africa in Khartoum. Dr. Gedi holds a PhD in Political Science from Neelain University, Sudan, and a master’s degree in African studies from the International University of Africa. His expertise spans crisis management, international relations, and conflict resolution, with a focus on teaching. Throughout his career, Dr. Gedi has authored a book and several articles. He has participated in numerous regional and international conferences and workshops, contributing to the fields of political science and social development in Somalia and beyond. At the City University of Mogadishu, Dr. Gedi taught Introduction to Political Science, Politics of Development, Islamic Political Thought, Contemporary Somali Politics & Essentials of Islam.

Ahmed Mohamoud Mohamed

Ahmed Mohamoud Mohamed is a lecturer and researcher at the City University of Mogadishu with over a decade of experience in public administration, particularly in the Somali Federal Parliament. He holds a Master of Public Management from the Korean Development Institute School of Public Policy and a Master of International Relations and Diplomacy from Kampala University. Ahmed has served in various roles, including as a Budget and Public Policy Analyst at the Somali Federal Parliament, where he provides critical analysis of fiscal policies and government expenditure. His research interests encompass public administration, post-conflict state-building, and political economy, and he has contributed to several policy and academic studies.

Abdulkadir Abdullahi Osman

Abdulkadir Abdulahi Osman (Gooni) is a lecturer and researcher at the City University of Mogadishu. He holds an MA in Conflict, Governance, and Peacebuilding from the City University of Mogadishu and has a strong background in Islamic Studies, having earned a Bachelor’s degree and a Higher Diploma from Al-Azhar University in Egypt. At City University, Gooni has taught courses on Ethnicity and Nationalism, Political Culture, and Islamic Political Thought. His work is marked by a commitment to peace education and social inclusion, alongside a deep understanding of Somali society and its challenges. Gooni combines his academic expertise with practical experience in legal and educational fields.

Student Testimonials

Ahmed Amin

“The Political Science program at the City University of Mogadishu aims to develop critical thinking skills and the application of theory. This equips students with globally relevant skills and encourages them to question and understand the world around them. During my time at the City University of Mogadishu, I had the opportunity to connect and collaborate with exceptional students. With the guidance of dedicated and knowledgeable educators, I learned how to ask critical questions, conduct meaningful research, and develop my personal and professional growth. The program and the supportive university environment have been instrumental in my development.” Ahmed Amin, Political Science Graduate, Class of 2020

Fadumo Ali

As a proud alumnus of the City University of Mogadishu’s Political Science program and the first Student Government President, I can attest to the transformative impact of the curriculum. The program cultivated a deep understanding of political theory and its practical application, enabling me to develop critical thinking skills and a global perspective. The student government was integral to my professional development, providing me with hands-on leadership experience. I developed valuable communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills by advocating for student interests, organizing events, and collaborating with administrators. These skills have been instrumental in my subsequent career in the Federal Government of Somalia, where I have applied my knowledge to make a positive impact. The university also encouraged active engagement, fostering a sense of civic duty and community service. These experiences, combined with the rigorous academic training, have empowered me to navigate the complex environment and make meaningful contributions to Somalia’s development. The skills and knowledge gained at the City University of Mogadishu have been invaluable in my career and in my efforts to serve my community and country. Fadumo Ali, Political Science Graduate, Class of 2018

Degree Requirements

No	Course Description	Subjects	Credit Hours
1	Foundation Program (Government Mandated)	11	28
2	University Core Required Courses	8	24
3	Department Required Courses	14	42
4	Concentration Required Courses	8	24
5	Electives	5	15
	Total	47	133

Foundation Program (Government Mandated)

Effective September 2023, the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education of the Federal Government of Somalia has mandated a one-year foundation program for all university students in Somalia. The Ministry’s directive has specified the foundation year’s minimum courses and credit hours, ensuring students are prepared for their academic journey. As a result, like any other university in the country, the City University of Mogadishu students will complete a well-structured foundation year program.

Foundation classes (Semester One)

Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
Medium of Instruction (Intensive English Course) FND 051 Beginner English FND 061 Elementary English FND 071 Pre-Intermediate English FND 081 Intermediate English FND 091 Upper Intermediate English	16 hours	3
Introduction to University Context	1	1
Essentials of Islam and Ethics	2	2
Computer Technology	2	2
Introduction to Political Science	3	3
Total	25	11

Foundation Course (Semester 2)

Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
Medium of Instruction Language (English)/Academic Writing	8	3
Somali Language	4	3
Critical Thinking	4	3
Conflict Resolution	2	2
Arabic)	4	3
Pre-Calculus	4	3
Total	24	17

City University Core Courses

City University’s core curriculum is divided into two parts. First, all students take the required core courses after they successfully finish their foundation program. This shared intellectual experience is designed to immensely contribute to the achievement of the University Learning Outcomes. Second, depending on their degree program, students will select from the free core electives throughout their years of study at the university.

Number	Course No	Course Title	Credit Hrs
1	UNI 117	Understanding the Somali Society and Culture	3
2	UNI 121	Oral & Written Communication	3
3	UNI 123	Academic English (Writing)	3
4	UNI 132	Islamic Civilization	3
5	UNI 208	Statistics	3
6	UNI 310	Research Methods	3
7	UNI 321	Entrepreneurship Management	3
8	UNI 421	Globalization	3
		Total	24

Major Required Courses

No	Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
1	POL 101	Introduction to Political Science	3
2	ECN 103	Microeconomics	3
3	POL 103	International Relations	3
4	ECN 104	Macro Economics	3
5	POL 105	Social and Political Thought	3
6	POL 205	Public Administration	3
7	POL 207	Comparative Political Systems	3
8	POL 212	Islamic Political Thought	3
9	POL 224	Contemporary Somali Politics	3
10	POL 301	African Politics	3
11	POL 302	Politics of Development	3
12	POL 309	Regionalism and African Integration	3
13	POL 320	Gender and Politics	3
14	POL 410	Capstone I	3
		Total	42

Specialization in International Relations Requirements (24 Credit Hours)

No	Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
1	POL 401	Writing in Political Science	3
2	POL 411	Capstone II	3
3	POL 415	International Organizations	3
4	POL 416	Security Studies	3
5	POL 417	Study and Practice of Diplomacy	3
6	POL 419	International Political Economy	3
7	POL 488	Democracy and Democratization	3
8	POL 475	State-Building, Peacebuilding & Peace Education	3
		Total	24

Major Electives (Choose five courses or 15 credit hours) from the list below.

No	Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
1	POL124	Transitional Justice	3
2	POL 212	Islam and Politics	3
3	POL 250	Social Identity and Citizenship	3
4	POL 260	Leadership and Civic Responsibility	3
5	POL 262	Constitutional Politics	3
6	POL 351	American Politics	3
7	POL 352	European Politics	3
8	POL 357	Geopolitics	3
9	POL 366	Political Culture	3
10	POL 412	Foreign Policy	3
11	POL 422	Politics, Society and State in the Middle East	3
12	POL 430	Special Topics in International Relations	3
13	POL 450	Public Administration II	3
14	POL 451	Political Violence and Terrorism	3
15	POL 452	Nationalism and Ethnicity	3
16	POL301	Contemporary Issues in International Politics	3
17	POL 466	Conflict Analysis and Resolution	3
18	POL 468	Issues of International Security	3
19	POL 470	Special Topics in Public Administration	3
20	POL 482	Ethics and Law	3
22	POL 490	Globalization, Citizenship and Multiculturalism	3

Structure of the Program

Foundation classes (Semester 1)

Medium of Instruction (Intensive English Course) FND 051 Beginner English FND 061 Elementary English FND 071 Pre-Intermediate English FND 081 Intermediate English FND 091 Upper Intermediate English	16 hours	3
Introduction to University Context	1	1
Essentials of Islam and Ethics	2	2
Computer Technology	2	2
Introduction to Civil Engineering (CIE100)	3	3
Total	25	11

Foundation Course (Semester 2)

Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
Medium of Instruction Language (English)/Academic Writing	8	3
Somali Language	4	3
Critical Thinking	4	3
Conflict Resolution	2	2
Arabic)	4	3
Pre-Calculus	4	3
Total	24	17

Semester 3

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 123	Academic English	3
POL 105	Social and Political Thought	3
POL 103	International Relations	3
ECN 103	Microeconomics	3
	Total	12

Semester 4

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 208	Statistics	3
ECN 102	Macro Economics	3
POL 104	Islamic Political Thought	3
POL 207	Comparative Political Systems	3
	Total	12

Semester 5

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 121	Oral and Written Communication	3
POL 270	Nationalism and Ethnicity	3
POL 205	Public Administration	3
POL 302	Politics of Development	3
	Total	12

Semester 6

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 117	Understanding the Somali Society and Culture	3
POL 224	Contemporary Somali Politics	3
POL 301	Contemporary International Politics	3
POL 366	Political Culture	3
	Total	12

Semester 7

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 310	Research Methods	3
POL 301	African Politics	3
POL 320	Gender and Politics	3
POL 309	Regionalism and African Integration	3
POL 401	Writing in Political Science	3
	Total	15

Semester 8

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 132	Islamic Civilization	3
POL 419	International Political Economy	3
POL 412	Foreign Policy	3
POL 417	Study and Practice of Diplomacy	3
POL 416	Security Studies	3
	Total	15

Semester 9

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 321	Entrepreneurship Management	3
POL 402	State Building, Peace Building and Peace	3
POL 410	Capstone 1	3
POL 415	International Organizations	3
POL 453	Internship	3
	Total	15

Semester 10

Course No.	Course Title	Credit Hours
UNI 421	Globalization	3
POL 488	Democracy and Democratization	3
POL 411	Capstone II	3
	Total	9

ABOUT CITY UNIVERSITY

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School of Continuing Education and Professional Development

MA Political Science – Public Administration

MA Conflict, Governance & Peacebuilding

MS Fisheries Management

MS Agribusiness & Value Chain Development