Study in Political Science prepares students to be critical observers of politics and society, active citizens, and for careers in a variety of fields. Our courses provide a deeper understanding of domestic and international politics. They train you to think critically, write well, and speak with confidence. Our alumni work in settings such as federal, state, and local governments; international organizations; nonprofits; business; law and courts; and communications.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in political science are expected to:
- EVALUATE information and scholarship needed to place political problems in a broader historical, cross-national, and theoretical context.
- ASSESS different theoretical and conceptual approaches to the study of politics.
- APPLY theories and concepts to problems and issues in political science.
- INTEGRATE appropriate evidence and critical evaluation of multiple or opposing perspectives to make effective arguments about significant political processes or problems.
- DEMONSTRATE effective oral communication and presentation skills.
POLS 1100 and POLS 2900 and three additional hours at the 1000 level (POLS 2900 should be taken no later than the end of the junior year). A minimum of 24 hours of political science at the 3000-4000 level distributed among at least three areas of political science with a concentration (at least 9 hours) in one area is also required. The following areas in political science are available:
- American government
- Comparative government
- International relations
- Political theory
- Public administration
- Public law
POLS 3030 is recommended for any of the 3000- and 4000-level courses in public administration. The beginning student is encouraged to take the following courses before taking advanced courses in a particular area: POLS 1100 for American government, POLS 1710 for comparative politics, and POLS 1720 for international relations. While all 1000- and 2000-level coursework completed satisfactorily will count toward the hours necessary for the baccalaureate degree, no more than nine hours at the 1000-2000 level or nine hours of POLS 4960 will count toward the 33-hour major.
All students must consult with an advisor early in their pursuit of a major. Students opting for honors in political science must also take POLS 4950, Honors Seminar in Contemporary Political Science, and write a senior thesis under the direction of a faculty advisor.
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