When you study political science, you develop an understanding of the activities and ideas that shape the future. You learn about the background of present events and how decisions are made that affect the well-being of people and societies. You explore the nature and uses of power and the breadth and probable outcomes of citizen and government actions.
An ancient Chinese proverb warns about the risks of living “in interesting times.” We face new and old problems. Some that even put our survival at risk. As political scientists, we consider the value of new and old ways of meeting these challenges. And we prepare to confront these problems with insight, hope and passion.
When you graduate with a Political Science degree from Heidelberg, you may choose a career in law or public service. But no matter which career you choose, we believe you will be well prepared to live your life as an informed and effective citizen, an active participant in your community. You will have carefully thought about the political and social choices that we face. You will have considered informed opinion and research-based knowledge. You will be ready to act as a responsible citizen of the 21st century.
The Political Science Major at Heidelberg
Political Science at Heidelberg is an interdisciplinary program in which you are encouraged to use the knowledge and skills of history, philosophy, psychology, anthropology, sociology and mathematics to explore public life in local communities, nation-states and world forums. We emphasize a “hands-on” approach to learning: internships, visits with public officials, simulated legislative sessions and guided research. We are a long-standing member institution of the Washington Semester program and encourage our students to consider an experiential semester in Washington as well as study abroad opportunities. Our students regularly present their own research at local and national conferences. As interns, our students have worked as election campaign staffers, assistants to prosecutors and defense attorneys and environmental and human rights activists. Our classes regularly participate in simulations, such as Model United Nations, Model African Union and Model European Union.
Our successful alumnae and alumni
Many of our former students hold important positions in government and society. They administer government programs, serve as officers in the armed forces, advise elected officials, represent the political interests of major industries, hold judicial positions and teach at the secondary and college levels. They are judges, lawyers, public administrators, teachers, mayors, journalists, lobbyists, policy analysts, election consultants and informed citizens.
Engaged faculty
Political Science faculty members believe in the importance and value of active citizenship. Our faculty is engaged in the political life of their own communities:
Dr. John Bing has served for more than 20 years as president of Tiffin's Park and Recreation Board and has been recognized by the Ohio Park and Recreation Association as Citizen of the Year. He spent three years in East Africa in the 1960s and has visited China five times in the last 20 years, as well as Malaysia and Japan.
Professor Rita Barga, also the Heidelberg Pre-Law advisor, is a former Tiffin City prosecutor, practiced law in Tiffin for more than 10 years and is involved in civic activities. She has led student summer seminars at Oxford in England.
Professor Tom Newcomb brings more than 15 years of experience in the CIA to his courses on international security studies.
Dr. Marc O'Reilly's published writings on U.S. foreign policy are highly regarded. He regularly leads student groups for summer study in Europe as well as conducts seminars that involve travel and study in his native Canada.
Dr. Kathryn Bradie has traveled to China and is an expert on political philosophy.
Our adjunct professors include
James Fruth, a prominent local attorney and Heidelberg graduate who is active in community organizations and local politics, and Martin Koop, a local attorney specializing in criminal justice issues.