B.A. in Political Science

The breadth and diversity of political science makes it a discipline well suited for answering the major issues challenging the world of the 21st century. Over 90 percent of political science students go on to law school and graduate school within the first year of graduation. Political science faculty introduces scientific and philosophical perspectives in order to develop student ability to examine the United States, regions of the world, international relations, and the nature of government. Majors acquire proficiency in writing, communication, critical thinking skills, advocacy, and analysis, all of which are critical to a well-rounded and educated individual. Mission Niagara University's Department of Political Science is dedicated to developing students' understanding of the institutions of government and the formulation and implementation of domestic and foreign policy. We seek to nurture students' appreciation of law and legal reasoning, other cultures and political systems, and the role of the United States in the larger world community. We are dedicated to the development of the whole student, one who is more culturally sensitive and better able to apply qualitative and quantitative methodologies to political, economic, social, cultural, gender-based and legal questions, with a focus on social justice. Goals Students will demonstrate familiarity with the major subfields of political science (American politics, comparative politics, and international relations); Students will demonstrate the ability to identify and/or collect and analyze appropriate data relating to central research questions in political science; Students will demonstrate the ability to engage in critical thinking; Students will demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communication; Students will demonstrate an awareness of other countries and cultures, and the place of the United States in the world community; Students will have first-hand experience in politics (and related disciplines, e.g., law) through internships and cooperative educational experiences; Students will seek to continue their studies at the graduate level in political science, law, and related disciplines.