Political Science Major

Political scientists describe and analyze governing processes in local communities, nation states and world forums. Students of politics and government use historical investigation, statistical reasoning, anthropological findings, philosophical inquiry and behavioral studies to better understand the forces that shape the political life of human communities. Through the study of political science, students considering employment in law, public service, international service, public administration, business and industry, teaching and journalism discover ideas and insights that both enrich their personal lives and strengthen their competencies for their chosen careers.

Departmental Courses

Political Science majors must take these courses in the Political Science and Anthropology Department:

POL 121 – Global Politics or POL 127 – American National Government (although both are recommended)
POL 344 – Advanced Research Methods
POL 376 – Global Issues I: War and Peace
POL 377 – Global Issues II: Human Rights and Social Justice
POL 408 – Classic Texts in Political Science
POL 409 – Capstone in Political Science or ITS 409 – International Studies Capstone Research Seminar (with permission of the ITS and POL chairs)

Majors also must complete two courses from the following:

POL 240 – African Politics
POL 250 – Latin American Politics
POL 263 – European Politics
POL 270 – Asian and Pacific Rim Politics

And one course from the following:

POL 235 – The Constitution and the Structure of Government: Struggles for Power
POL 236 – The Supreme Court and Individual Rights
POL 237 – Local U.S. Government

In addition, Political Science majors need to take 3 additional POL semester hours (for a total, when combined with the above, of 30).

Special Notes:

  • All students must complete the General Education requirements for the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees that are described in the college catalog. Each degree requires students to take courses in the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, cultures and mathematics. These courses are designed to provide a broad liberal arts background and skills specific to the particular degree program.
  • The Political Science minor is not available to students majoring in Political Science; however, students may major in Political Science and minor in Legal Studies.