Political Science

As a political science major, you will explore the political forces that have impacted and continue to shape our world, probing such topics as civil liberties, human rights, the exercise of authority, American foreign policy and the impact of globalization on the economy.

Political science has its origins in Greek and Roman discussions on governance and the creation of a just and harmonious social order. The contemporary field of political science builds upon these ideas by examining the theories that shape our perspectives on government and how political leaders exercise authority on local, national, and international levels. Political scientists explore concepts such as ideology and power to explain the decision-making processes, rules, and laws that characterize the relationships between political institutions and their citizens.

Using the methods of scientific investigation, the Political Science program enables you to analyze the foundations and frameworks of governmental systems and the various ways political forces have shaped our world. Topics such as civil liberties, globalization, human rights, American foreign policy, international relations, and terrorism all feature prominently in our coursework.

Our program provides you with considerable flexibility in creating an interdisciplinary course of study that is tailored to your specific interests. Yet whichever direction you choose to take, you will become more knowledgeable about our political structures and systems and a more critical analyst of political events and activities. To appreciate government “in action,” you may also choose to participate in an internship related to political advocacy. In the process, you will begin to clarify your own political philosophy and acquire the tools to help you become a more informed and engaged citizen.

 

Political Science 4+1 Program | Bachelor & Master Degrees

In addition to our Bachelor of Science major, we also offer a Political Science 4+1 program that enables you to earn you undergraduate degree and Master’s in Public Administration in five years. Learn more about our MPA program.
 
4+1 Program: MPA
  

Curriculum & Courses

The Political Science major offers students the opportunity to fashion an individualized and interdisciplinary course of study that focuses on the development of critical skills necessary for analyzing political structures and systems. Students are required to complete 120 credits, distributed in the following manner: the Hilbert Blueprint sequence; Public Speaking; two courses in English; one course in Religious Studies; six major courses; five General Education courses; and twenty-two courses from the major, Liberal Arts, and general electives.

View Curriculum & Courses  View Printable Curriculum (PDF)

Career Opportunity Outlook

Political science majors possess a range of critical skills that are in high demand among employers. Graduates are prepared for a wide variety of academic and professional paths.

• Academic Opportunities: graduate studies in political science or related social science fields.
• Professional Opportunities: political leadership and activism; law; education; national security; intelligence; communications; foreign service.