Laid back environment; The multiple choice and 5 short answer questions, do not be afraid he gives you the info to be prepared; there were also critical analysis's about news, very easy. The final was good; it was a cummulative multiple choice. He provided study guides for exams and will help you any way he can;I learned alot; I would recommend.

Very helpful with a wonderfully cynical sense of humor. He made an unbearable subject interesting.

Bates is an awesome professor! He makes everything crystal clear and is very funny. I have made a new friend. If you know Mr. Lopez, he's a lot like him. I HIGHLY recommend him as a professor! A++++

you will learn how the country is run, in a comfortable but thorough manner

I've taken 5 semesters of classes at Mt. San Jacinto College, and Mr. Bates is by far and away the best professor I've had! Everything is very clear, he's fair and not afraid to admit mistakes. I too, have made a friend. His sense of humor makes political science seem interesting. Would greatly recommend. Oh, and his name's Brian, not Biran.

Mr. Bates is a great professor. Prior to taking his class I had no interest in politics as a whole. His teaching style made it very interesting. He is very knowlegeable about his topic. As he likes to say.. "His ego is not invested in the class" so his main objective is to make sure his students have a better understanding of American Politics.

Excellent teacher! Loves to crack jokes, and on the short answer questions on the tests, if you don't know the answer, write a joke and he gives you points:) Easiest pol. sci teacher out of all of them!!

Very good teacher. Very informative. Keeps your interest in the subject. Start on the research paper early! Try not to miss classes because his tests contain some in-class lectures. Don't need to remember dates. Minimal homework.

THIS IS THE MAN TO TAKE POLITICAL SCIENCE WITH...HE MAKES IT INTERESTING AND MAKES SURE U LEARN...IT'S A GREAT COURSE WITH MR. BATES.

You will not regret taking his class! Best professor at MSJC! He tells you straight up what is going to be on tests. His personal ego is NOT involved with the class. You wont regret taking him. I wish i could take class over again just to have Prof. Bates.

I really enjoyed his class!! He makes politics actually interesting for those who do not follow it. He is always trying to help, and is a great teacher. Take political science with him! :)

Bates is a terrific teacher. He's in my top 3 teachers; very interesting class, objectives clearly laid out, fair grades, good tests. Very fair & open teacher. Mr. bates is very captivating in lecture and he brings good discussion to the class. Taught me how to write perfect essays and papers also.

I took Mr. Bates for Political Science. Before starting the class everyone was saying that when they took Political science it was really hard and the teacher was difficult. Not in this case. He is awesome, understanding and very helpful. I would highly recommend Him for Political Science.

He is a great teacher, I took Poli Sci with a different teacher the semester before and failed. With Bates I learned a lot and he made me want to come to class. I HIGHLY recommend his class, you will not be disappointed.

Great professor! He does make politics interesting and trust me I knew nothing about politics. I found many subjects he taught to be highly intriguing. Would absolutely recommend.

Just study for the tests and it'll be an easy course. Consists of outlines and tests and a final research paper. He's a great teacher, takes the time to explain everything if you're not getting it. Also takes the time to answer off topic questions about what's happening in the real world which is cool

THE BEST PROFESSOR I have ever had. I come from Peru, a Spanish speaking country and b I understood every single word he said. It is hard to understand the political system of a new country; I was quite worried, but Mr. Bates made it so clear and interesting. Very practical instructor, doesn't care about MLA or APA or any other format. Just content

Bates makes the class interesting. Clear on what he wants and walks you through the paper step by step. Wording on the test can be a bit confusing, but study and you should do well. Would def recommend this instructor

Great teacher, he cares about the material. answers any questions anyone has. the hardest part was an essay but even that was extremely easy and helps you with any part of it that your stuck on. I highly recommend this professor!

Mr bates is an awesome professor who cares for his students. he is awesome at what he does and has a great personality. he has a great way of teaching his class he teaches what he tests and tests what he teaches :D. if you attend his class and study you got it!!

Spoiler Alert: Next semester he is doing quizzes. So if you're taking him I advice STUDY STUDY HARD AND READ because this NOT an easy course however he is such a nice genuine person who cares for his students just his material is tough, but fair. Show up and you will pass.His voice is intimidating but you'll survive it after all this is college (:

AWESOME instructor! You have to attend class in order to understand the material. He is awesome at explaing things very clearly so that there is no confusion. This is the professor to take if you are going to take Political Science!

This professor is really helpful when comes to explaining complex government concepts. Majority of the test questions are based right off the lectures. Although the professor does not apply mandatory attendance on his students, it is important to attend every class session to pass the exams@

He has a gift! He presents college level material to his class--but explains it as if he was speaking to his buddies. I can honestly say that I have walked away from his class with MORE knowledge than I initially started with. THANKS BATES!!!

GREAT GREAT GREAT TEACHER!! He teaches very well, i would definately recommend him. I knew nothing of P.S. and i was worried but the way he delivers his teachings is great for visual learners as well.

Bates' class is the one you want to take if you have to take Political Science. His lectures are really interesting and he's just an incredible person. He'll give you a thorough understanding of the material as well as advice on how to write effective papers, and even life skills. I loved his class. He is a tough grader though so study hard.

Brian makes sure that his students are in full understanding of the assignments and class work. He is one of the very few who makes you feel like you matter.

Professor Bates is a wonderful professor and I would recommend taking him for Political Science. He is really passionate on his topics and makes Political Science fun. We did have an 8 page research paper and quizzes, but that was the most homework that was assigned besides studying for tests.

I am currently a junior in high school taking concurrent enrollment. Professor Bates is one the most outstanding teachers I have ever had; he is very understanding, he teaches what he tests, and makes you feel like you matter... because in reality you do matter to him! I have earned an A in his class, but keep in mind to always show up to lecture!

Very understanding Professor. Makes sure all the students feel welcomed as well as individuals and not just a bunch of students to teach. He makes sure everyone feels unique and makes sure that everyone is respected by others. I would recommend him! Seriously take him! Great Professor!

Great Class!!! Mr. Bates is the best. He gives clear, helpful instructions. As long as you show up to class and listen to Mr. Bates's lectures and take notes, the tests are piece of cake! Overall just a great, fun class! Definitely take Mr. Bates!

one of the best Professors at MSJC ! He is very clear on his lectures and helpful to his students. Just show up to class and take notes, his test are based off lectures. There is a 8 page research paper that we have to turn in towards the end of the semester but you have all semester to work on it! TOTALLY recommend this class!!

Awesome professor!! Not only because it is a passable class but because i walked out of that class with gained knowledge about the government concepts. He interacts with the class and is great at explaining the material! Highly recommend this course.

Professor Bates is on my top list of best 3 teachers I've ever had! He explains everything thoroughly and makes it easy to understand. He is passionate about what he teaches and even more passionate towards his students. He makes everyone feel like they have a purpose and I highly recommend taking his class if you need Political Science!

Bates definitely has a gift for teaching and I couldn't be more thankful for him. Not only did he teach me what he was supposed to but I'm leaving his class knowing more than when I walked in. He is definitely a teacher who not only knows how to do his job but knows how to do it well, he truly cares about his students and it shows. 1 of the best!

Prof. Bates is a passionate teacher who cares for his students, and wants the best for them. His syllabus is clear and accurate, read it and follow it. I highly recommend Prof. Bates!

Mr. Bates was a great teacher. I took him for Political Science 101. He is clear and concise. On the test he goes easy on you, the only thing you have to work hard on is the Final Paper. It's going be 8 pages not including citations and cover page.

By far one of the best professors at msjc!His lectures cover his test his reading are assigned and short and also have to do just with test. He assigned only one paper that's due until the end of the semester ! His teachino techniques will help you for the rest of your college life! Wish I had taken him the1st time I took ps101!Higley recommend!!

Bates is definitely one of the coolest professors on campus. You can tell that he genuinely enjoys teaching because he kept the class interesting most of the time. My only heads up would be to take notes on the main points during his lectures (tests are based on them) and start your research paper ASAP. Other than that, I highly recommend him.

Brian bates was by far the best teacher Ive had he makes politics fun which by the way really aren't and helps you through the whole final paper

He is an awesome teacher! Super easy if you follow what he says to do. Funny and makes class worth going to! I dreaded taking political science but when I got to his class he made me actually enjoy it.

Professor Bates is one of the best teachers MSJC has to offer. He truly cares about the learning of his students. Listen to his lectures it will help you on the test. Bates walks you through the final paper so you'll pass. I cannot say enough good things about this teacher. Quizzes are given online. Tests are not hard at all just pay attention.

Mr. Bates is an amazing professor, he cares about his students and the students success, you are assign to read a certain or certain chapters to discuss about in the next class meeting, honestly the reading is not hard at all, and you will need to read to have an idea what you guys will be discussing during class. His class is very fun.

Mr. Bates is one of the coolest teachers out there! He truly cares for his students and actually wants us to pass! His lectures are really interesting so you won't feel like you're there forever. He manages to keep us awake by allowing us to interact with one another and by cracking jokes every now and then. LOVED taking his class!

Professor Bates is by far the best teacher I've had . He truly cares for his students and makes himself available for any questions or concerns you might have regarding class lectures . I highly recommend this class , you will not be bored

Professor Bates is one the most caring teachers I have had. Bates truly cares and wants you to succeed while providing the tools. He is very clear on what he wants from you and how he wants all assignments completed. He is always available as needed. I highly recommend this class, you won't regret it.

Great man and a great professor. He cares a lot about students, and people. He prepares you for success. His lectures are by far the best! An amazing educator colleges need more Brian Bates, not unqualified look i got a degree, but cannot teach and i do not care. You will learn a lot more than just Political Science. MSJCs Finest.

He genuinely cares that you understand the material and do great in the class, definitely an amazing teacher. Exams or online quizzes are not difficult since he warns you exactly what he'll ask. ADVICE: start research paper ASAP, participate in class (he loves it), read everything he assigns (it's not much). Easy and fun class, TAKE HIM!

great professor, great human being

He is a nice teacher who cares about his students. Class is moderate, but if you don't study for the tests and assume you'll get lucky and pass, you won't. So best advice, study, and you should pass.

Professor Bates Is THE BEST! He makes learning about Political Science fun and easy. I am so glad that I took his course. I was afraid at first, but I learned so much, and I am more interested in politics now than I ever had been before. I HIGHLY recommend that anyone that needs PS-101 take him. You wont be disappointed.

Bates is by far the best professor I've had at MSJC, his ability to connect with his students on a personal level and get them interested in political science is AMAZING! he's the only professor I've ever had that I actually felt cared for me as a student and as a person, if you need PS101 I highly recommend taking Brian Bates you won't regret it.

Wonderful experience

mr. bates is a one of a kind. he's very inspirational, understands goes out of his way to make sure you succeed. a lot of reading but for a reason. you can see he loves his job along with his students. i would recommend him to anyone. he's funny and loyal. respect him and he'll do the same. he lectures makes you want to learn.

I would recommend Mr. Bates to all students who are willing to attend every class. This teacher is GREAT! His lectures are very intense and you will not forget the way he describes events and occurrences. I truly did enjoy his class, and he is GREAT with young students. I was the oldest one in his class and he didn't make me feel out of place.

Mr. Bates is an excellent teacher. He genuinely cares about the success of his students and will do anything in his power to help everyone. He's very clear in his expectations and as long as his standards are respected the class will flow smoothly. The tests are cut and dry because he tests on the material he's covered. I highly recommend him.

At first, I got scared and felt that i could not pass the class. Firm and strict esp attendance. he likes everyone's opinions and participation. PLS! DO NOT DROP THE CLASS AND DONT BE AFRAID OF THE RESEARCH PAPER. yOU WILL BE SURPRISE BECAUSE HE CARES ABOUT THE HARD WORK AND GIVES YOU "A" AS LONG AS YOU FOLLOW GUIDELINES. HE IS AWESOME PROFESSOR.

Great teacher. Would take again. He truly cares about his students and wants them to do well. He looks for ways to make the material more understandable. Encourages peers to vote and participate in political discussions.

Brian Bates is perhaps the of the best teachers at MSJC this was my third attempt at this course and by far Mr. Bates was the best teacher. He Is very straight forward follow his every instruction and you will leave with a well deserved grade. Highly recommend him.

Professor Bates is an AMAZING teacher! I always looked forward to attend his class every week. He makes his lectures interesting. Tests aren't that hard. He does require an 8-10 page research paper but the way he explains setting it up makes it SO much easier. I would absolutely recommend this class!

Best Professor I've had. Found his class very easy. His lectures were easy to understand. The book is highly used especially if you want to pass his tests. The environment in his classroom was always welcoming and I enjoyed his class very much. I highly recommend.

Mr. Bates is a professor who cares about his students and their success. Reading the chapters can be of much benefit but quizzes and tests are mostly based off of his lectures. Lectures are easy to follow. Would definitely recommend this professor and if I had to take another political science class it would definitely be with this professor.

Professor Bates was great. It was a long night class, but his lessons were always worthwhile. DO NOT be scared of the research paper. Pay attention in class, read your assigned pages and you will be fine.

He is a great professor. You get very interested in political science after taking a course with Bates. He loves his students and cares about everyone getting their education. This was my favorite class. I never wanted to miss one.

He was an amazing professor. I would take his class again if i could.

This teacher definitely knows what he is doing. He cares for his students and wants them all to pass. There isn't any homework, besides the 8 page research paper that he outlines for you. Tests are easy, and you can even earn extra credit just for being registered to vote! Amazing and funny, would definitely take again:)

Amazing professor. Tells you exactly what to study and expect. The lecture is exactly what is on the test. You do and study what he says you get an A.

Professor Bates truly loves all of his students, he cares where they end up, because we are the future. He makes politics fun! Not too much homework, small assignments here and there, and in class mostly. The tests were based off of lecture, and the book reading, so try not to miss. Overall I would highly recommend this professor.

"Poly sci" ugh right ! But No! Bates made this course so much fun. I literally was so bummed the day I couldn't be there. I had never felt so comfortable expressing my own opinion in a room full of people. It's all fair game. I did have the advantage of attending this course during the time of election which helped my political stand point.

He requires you to read the textbook prior to class lectures, but also aids in research paper development. He has very little assignments but they are worth it for understanding the course topic.

Great professor! He's understanding and really cares for his students. A lot of people freak out about the paper he gives us, but he gives you the entire semester to write an 8 page paper! Easiest thing ever. I did mine in two days and received in A!

Mr. Bates is by far the best professor I've ever had. His teaching style makes learning easy and entertaining. He clearly states what will and will not be on the tests so if you make flashcards i guarantee you'll earn an A on every single one. He assigns an 8 page research paper but gives you a checklist to help ensure you get an A.

He was Amazing, This professor is very intelligent and he cares about his students. The work is fairly difficult but so worth it.

Mr : Brian Bates is a wonderful human being. He also cares about all the students. I had learned so much with him.

Mr: Brian is a great Professor; and also make all of us to participate in class.

If you're one of those people who have zero interest in politics, please for the love of god take Bates! Lectures are amazing! He makes everything so clear-cut and nice. Class consists of about 5 short BB quizzes, 1 8pg research paper, 1pg worksheet, and 3 exams. A bit of work but he really really helps work through it all. Very straight forward

Professor Bates is the best Political Science teacher you can ask for. I have been trying to find a good political science teacher for the past year and couldnt find one. His teaching styles make sense, not only teaches you what needs to be taught but he made the class more than just learning he made it fun. Take him, you won't regret

Professor bates is by far one of the best professors in this college , his lectures are very understanding and he really cares about his students. I'd definelty would have him as a professor again if I could.

Bates is not your normal professor who just lectures with power points, expecting the students to just listen and not engage in conversation. Bates engages the class in a conversation so that everyone understands what he is lecturing. His exams NEED some studying in order to get a good grade! I would take his class again 100% he genuinely cares!

I really enjoyed this professor. He was very influential. If I didn't already change my major 20 times at msjc, I'd change it to political science. Take him. You'll love him. He's easy if you take notes. The book is 100$. Don't buy it. I didn't read t once. I got a B and it was an easy A but I missed an assignment.

Bates was a great professor! I was ready to drop out in the middle, but he talked me up and gave me some great advice. He really cares about his students and pushes everyone to try hard.

Mr. Bates is amazing. Loved his class and would take it again if I could. Political Science was not one of my favorite subjects until I took his class. Mr. Bates has forever changed my whole out look on Political Science.

Must take good notes to pass, and lots of reading. He is great with his students.

I'm not a big fan of political science, but I would take this class with Bates every semester if I could. He's one of the most caring professors I've ever had.

Professor Bates is not just an "ordinary" professor. He is someone who actually cares about "you" as a student and wants "you" to succeed in not only the class but life. Bates has truly changed my mindset as a student in a positive, as well as my outlook on schooling/life. THANK YOU BATES!

One of the best instructor I ever took. He is an outstanding professor. Most importantly fair! I have my share of bad professors at MSJC and he is definitely not one but a great instructor. Although we have different political values he never belittle anyone. We need more professors like him.

Bates is an awesome professor. Not only does he teach political science but he also incorporates life and study tips on how to get through college in his class. He is clear on what he expects from you as a student. He also helps you out along the way with what is expected. He's one of my favorite professors from this semester.

Professor Bates was an amazing professor who managed to spark an interest into a subject that I had little to no care for. He is clear about what will be on his tests and what he expects from his students. I would definitely recommend him.

Professor Bates has by far been the best Professor I have ever had in college! His lectures are interesting because he knows how to explain them really well. He is caring, respectfull, and a great person overall. All you have to do is study and sure eough your grade will benefit from it. I recommend him I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Professor Bates is an awesome person who genuinely cares for his students. He will easily be one of the friendliest professors that you'll ever take in college. He acknowledges the fact that students have jobs and lives and sometimes even allows assignment due dates to be pushed back. I can't stress how fantastic he was. He makes PS so simple.

Perfectly explained and prepared us for his exams, one of the best professors I've had. He has a great sense of humor and class lectures cover the assigned reading eloquently. 10/10 would take his class again. PS. Beware of the "Hot Minute of Fame or Shame"

Really cool professor, not too much homework but based tests off of his lectures. Interacts very well with students

Really great professor who enjoys teaching. He actually makes the class enjoyable. He tells lots of jokes and personal stories. He made the 3 hour class bearable. If you put in the work then you should have no issue passing the class. Would definitely take again.

Bates is such an amazing professor! With all the years I've been a student, he is hands down the best teacher I ever had. He really cares about his students and want them to succeed in school and in life. He is understanding, and gives you tools that can help you succeed in other classes as well. Never thought I would be so interested in a ps class

Bates is amazing! I'm in his Wednesday late class, and I thought id fall asleep, but he's actually very interesting. He goes over the topics very well and gives lots of examples. The readings aren't too long, and the tests are okay! all my friends in other teachers classes complain, meanwhile this was my favorite class! take him!

Brian, is by far the best teacher I have had in MSJC. He truly does care for all his students, and really knows how to show it. Class was never boring, because he made lectures fun. Oh, and he's hilarious! 10/10 would take this class again.

Bates may seem intimidating but don't be fooled, great unbiased lectures too! reading homework isn't overbearing, 2 tests, a couple of quizzes (that you make yourself), an easy assignment here and there, and one research paper. final is accumulative.

I'm really glad I took his class for my first political science class. He's great at teaching and always makes sure everyone understands. His examples are very insightful and it's not a boring class because he has a great sense of humor. He also has great discussions about current political events.

Bates is by far the best professor I've ever taken. He was funny and interesting, turning our three hour class into a piece of cake. The tests were easy as long as you pay attention in class and do the couple of homework assignments. Though the textbook was technically required, I opened it maybe once. - Education and Political Science Major

I took Bates class 2 years ago and he is still the best professor I've had in college. His political science class was extremely interesting and his lectures made the 3 hour class fly by. He's funny, and passionate about his students. You will NOT find a better teacher. I highly recommend taking his class.

Bates has by far been the best Professor I have ever had, his lectures are interesting because he knows how to explain them really well. Even though the class was long he does his best to keep us engaged. Make sure to attend class since he gives you information that you need to know for the test! Overall take his class and you'll do great!

Funny professors probably the only one out there that can make a 3 hour class funny. Total of 2 tests plus the final. Each lecture is heavy since it's once a week make sure to not miss out. Study your notes and you should be fine. He doesn't let his own political views get in the way of lectures and respects all views.

Professor Bates is very knowledgeable, funny, detailed and fair. I didnt like Politics but he made it very interesting from different point of views. Definitely would recommend him!

Bates gives a normal amount of homework and gives entertaining and educational lectures. Youll need the book and youll need to show up for class if you want to pass. Bates really cares about his students.

I tell everyone to take him, hes the best!!! Thank you MSJC for having him! He literally changed my life, I cant thank him enough.

Professor Bates is inspiring. He really is a caring and compassionate professor who goes out of his way to ensure that his students understand the content. He works toward building political interest and participation in students. Bates is a gem, he is to be believed when he expresses his love for his class. Worth every minute of class!

Professor Bates was amazing! His grading is clear and fair. He makes a normally boring class so much fun! I truly enjoyed his lectures and you can tell he has a genuine love for what he does. He is also easy to get a hold of if you have any questions regarding assignments. Would 100% take him again or recommend him to someone!

Professor Bates is such an amazing teacher. He makes class super easy and fun. He wont call you out, he wont make you feel dumb, he would do the complete opposite of that. He cares a lot about his students and not many actually do. This was his last semester as a college professor and Im grateful I got to experience political science with him.

Bates is one of the most unique Political Science professors around and really cares about his students. His lectures were long but funny and gave you everything you needed to know for his tests. I wish Bates taught beyond 101 because id love to take him again but unfortunately he's retiring this year. Hope you enjoy it Bates!

Politics was never an interest, but after the first few lectures it became a class I was not expecting. This class ended up turning into one of my most favorite classes. I thank MSJC for having him and I would've highly recommend his class, but he will not be returning due to retirement. Enjoy it Bates you deserve it! Thanks for being so awesome!

I am a beginning college student and I truly enjoyed this class. P.S is not something I was interested in. I learned the importance of politics and the importance we have as individuals to make a difference in the world, I walked out of this class a new person. He is a one of a kind. His class and teaching style will be unmatched! THANK YOU BATES!

Bates was such a great professor. I was scared to not pass the class but he gives extra credit and isn't a hard grader. One of the best professors I've had. Really does care for his student. Really does make you understand his letures. The only thing I didn't like was that there were no study guides for the test but thankfully they weren't hard.

I absolutely loved every moment of this class. he was fair, honest, respectful, and a stickler for the curriculum. he made me think critically of my own politics, how I came about them, and how they shaped me. hands down, one of the best classes I have taken.

Looked forward to this class every week. This teacher has a passion for teaching and it shows. Made us laugh every night so that kept us engaged, never biased. I felt that I actually learned something. To hear that its his last semester made me feel lucky I got to take him. Above all a real down to earth and kind person. We need more like him!

Bates is a really good professor he really knows his stuff. He cares and trys to help you pass lots of reading easy A if you study he will always tell you wants on every test no surprises

This has been one of my favorite class that I have ever taken. I actually learned something that I will actually remember and not just memorize so I can pass the class.

Best teacher I've EVER had! No exaggeration or hesitation whatsoever! Here's the deal: I've attended college twice; a total of 7 years & 2 degrees. That's a lot of classes. Taking into account my top instructors from grade school, high school, & 3 universities, Prof Bates is the greatest by far! The world is truly a better place because he's in it!