Acknowledging the diversity within our college community and the various directions in which the study of Political Science can lead, the discipline seeks to assure a correspondingly flexible program of instruction. The faculty's overriding concern is to help students develop the capacity to evaluate critically their own and other political systems and to relate classroom experience effectively to urgent civic and social issues. In this
context, the overall curriculum is designed to promote both a theoretical and practical understanding of the interplay among social classes, values, political power and conflict; the processes of decision making and the state; and factors that affect social justice and political adjustments to changing conditions globally as well as nationally. In addition to these concepts the faculty is committed to the reinforcement of skills such as critical thinking, writing and computer literacy.

Career Opportunities

The political science program prepares students for graduate study or law school, and for careers in local, state or national government, education, journalism, law, international affairs, campaign management and for staff work with political parties, interest groups, labor organizations, non-profit and research organizations. Political Science is also a liberal art and an appropriate major for students who are uncertain of their career interests.

Political Science Curriculum

In addition to courses in American government and politics, the program offers a broad array of courses in political theory, public administration, prelaw, comparative government, international relations and area studies. To major in political science, students must take a minimum of 30 credits in political science, of which 18 are required. For the remainder of the credits students are encouraged to consult with a faculty adviser to assist them in selecting a relevant concentration of elective courses which will advance their interests and career goals. Besides traditional classes, the department offers advanced work for juniors and seniors in a variety of formats including seminars and internships at the local, state and national levels.

Note: Electives must include a 300 or 400 level course, and should be chosen in consultation with a Political Science advisor.

For students pursuing careers in law, civil service, management, teaching etc., POL 228, 230, 275 are highly recommended.

Students hoping to pursue doctoral studies in political science are urged to take: Politics 220 (or Sociology 220), Politics 453, and Politics 340 or 367

* Political Science majors must choose POL 103 to satisfy the General Education requirement.