Political Science
Political Science Course Descriptions
The mission of the Department of Political Science is to provide majors with a strong foundation to expand awareness and understanding of political life, to stimulate scholarship and continuing interest in government, government service, and international affairs—and to provide a framework for enriching the exposure of majors and the wider university community to the study of government, politics, and issues of public concern. Students also may explore themes of war and peace and the effects of globalization, the role of international law and organizations, and America’s leadership in the world.
The Department offers two majors: a Bachelor of Arts in Government. The Department also offers a Minor in Political Science and hosts several Interdisciplinary Concentrations that can substitute for a Minor, including Concentrations in International Affairs, Political Economy, and Pre-Law.
The Department’s programs are especially designed to develop analytical skills, combining organized knowledge with practical experience that introduces and prepares students for career opportunities in the public as well as non-governmental sectors. Internships are a vital part of the programs. Many occupations today require a college-educated individual who can write and speak well, solve problems, learn new information quickly, and work well with others on a team. Government students prepare for professional training in public policy, public administration, law, graduate education in the policy sciences, as well as employment in government and non-government public sector organizations, including non-profit organizations or businesses relating to international affairs.
Students are strongly encouraged to take at least one Internship course. Up to 6 hours of Internships can be substituted for the same number of hours in the area of focus. To enroll in an internship, students must have a 2.5 GPA overall, a 3.0 GPA in the major, and approval of the instructor.