Programs of Study

Political Science Major

The major in political science is designed to provide knowledge of the nature of politics and government on the local, state, national, and international levels and of the functions and theories of the state. The courses enable students to develop an understanding of the political process, and an ability to analyze political systems, relationships, and problems. The major affords excellent preparation for graduate education, law school, public administration, public service, social science teaching and, most importantly, intelligent citizenship.

The introductory courses for majors strengthen the freshmen experience and create common bonds among students in Political Science. Core offerings on American Politics and Policy have been augmented by others on comparative policies of countries ranging from Eastern Europe to Southeast Asia to Southern Africa.

The department also offers specialized courses related to gender and citizenship, political economy, race and ethnicity, and public policy of interest to students in a variety of majors across the University.

In addition to traditional courses in political thought, recent course offerings have included work in state theory, feminist political theory, current theoretical conflicts in constitutional interpretation, and the politics of arts and culture.

More information on courses and course descriptions is available in the undergraduate catalog.

Political Science Minor

The department also offers a minor in political science, which can aid students in the pursuit of careers in law, foreign service, business, management, higher education and public service.

For more information, such as course and degree requirements, please go to the course catalog.