Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science

The Department of Political Science offers strong major and minor programs sharing a focus on public concerns. We are committed to providing our students with the tools and competence to succeed in their lives, their graduate education and their careers by instilling academic rigor, information access and research skills, dedication to life-long learning and respect for diversity in cultures, nations and institutions of democracy. Goals To carry out the above mission, the Department of Political Science seeks to: Offer strong major programs: the B.A. in political science, the B.S. in public policy and administration and the B.A. in international affairs (cross disciplinary). Offer strong minor programs: political science, public policy and administration and political communication (cross disciplinary). Enhance critical thinking, communication and information gathering skills. Foster active learning through research, simulations and internships. Career Opportunities The political science department offers programs that lead students to careers in the following fields: Administration and management Federal, state and local government International organizations Law Not-for-profit organizations Politics Private sector For a major in political science, the student must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 33 credit hours, including: A 14-hour core introducing students to the conduct of political inquiry in the major areas of the discipline, an awareness of global issues and cultural diversity, and the techniques of original research. A 15-hour depth requirement in which students take at least one course from three of the major areas of political inquiry and acquire additional experience in the application of research techniques. A four-hour capstone experience designed to bring together knowledge gained in different courses into a coherent whole, to foster a capacity for lifelong learning, to connect the major to experiences outside the university and to provide the opportunity to work individually with a faculty member.