By studying political science, you develop an understanding of the activities and ideas that shape the future. You learn how decisions are made and the effect they have on the well-being of people and societies. You explore the nature and uses of power and the breadth and outcomes of citizen and government actions.
We face new and old problems in society today. As political scientists, we consider the value of different ways of meeting these challenges. Political Science at Heidelberg is an interdisciplinary program where 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.
Courses
Below are the course requirements for the Political Science Major:
This does not replace official academic requirements in the university catalog. Enrolled students will work with their faculty advisor to ensure they meet all the requirements of their major.
30 semester hours
- POL 125: Introduction to Politics and Government
- POL 200: Introduction to Political Philosophy
- POL 221: Global Politics
- POL 227: American National Government
- POL 344: Research Methods
- POL 409: Senior Capstone Experience
Plus four additional Political Science courses of your choosing.
Study abroad and the Washington Semester program are strongly recommended for all majors.
This does not replace official academic requirements in the university catalog. Enrolled students will work with their faculty advisor to ensure they meet all the requirements of their major.
18 semester hours
- POL 125: Introduction to Politics and Government
- POL 221: Global Politics
- POL 227: American National Government
Plus three additional Political Science courses of your choosing.
For a more detailed academic schedule, or to ask questions about any of our majors, contact the Admission Office at admission [at] heidelberg.edu or (419) 448-2330.
Travel with your friends to the Model UN Far West Conference. Every other year, a delegation of Heidelberg students travel to San Francisco to participate in the annual conference, representing different countries, serving in leadership roles, and meeting students from across the country.
The Washington Semester, administered by the Reagan Institute in DC, enables you to obtain valuable work and study experiences within governmental or private agencies or institutions in the nation’s capital. You’ll enroll in special seminars and engage in research and career-oriented work experiences.
Heidelberg Political Science majors have found success in a wide variety of careers, including positions like:
- Administrator
- Professor
- Lawyer/Judge
- Government Official
- Politician Consultant/Advisor
As a recent Heidelberg grad and new Masters student at American University's School of International Service, I owe the humanities a big thank you for getting me to this point in my academic career. From taking my career goals seriously to challenging me in the classroom, the humanities department is one that I will continue to recommend to anyone looking to explore their interest in the humanities. Currently I am working towards my Masters in Global Governance, Policy, and Security Studies at American, a school I did not think I would have gotten into without my amazing experiences in the humanities department.
One of the best part of Heidelberg is getting to know and working with your professors. You'll be supported and challenged as you develop skills and experiences centered around research you're interested in.