The Political Science bachelor's degree program prepares students to engage with questions of power, governance, justice and injustice in American and global politics. This program provides students with a rigorous grounding in the analytical, critical and ethical thinking necessary to be an effective professional in the world of politics and public service. Political Science majors encounter the dynamic, complex world of politics through the program's core sequence of courses that emphasizes political literacy and communication, civic and global engagement, ethical decision making, and the application of theory to politics. With priority on exploration and choice, students may pursue their educational and career goals through our program's three major elective categories: 1) American/U.S. Politics, 2) International and Comparative Politics, and 3) Political Thought, Communication and Practice.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are expected to: Analyze a diversity of political systems, movements, issues and the dynamic nature of international relations, Apply political theory to the practice of politics and political science, Demonstrate fluency in the fundamentals of political communications in a variety of professional contexts and settings, Effectively employ qualitative and quantitative research methods as appropriate to data demands and contexts and Articulate and integrate core ethical principles and standards that define public service and the professional practice of political science.
Students are encouraged to pursue a wide range of opportunities for experiential and applied learning in politics and political science, through program options such as internships, study abroad and language learning. These opportunities provide students with the critical edge needed for building a career in politics and political science, including political campaign management and leadership, political communications, policy research, constituent relations, foreign service, nonprofit organizations, international governmental organizations, transnational corporations, international trade, and government agencies operating at the local, state and federal levels, as well as graduate study. Students also have the opportunity to produce an undergraduate thesis, which prepares them for further graduate study.
