Political Science
Political Science is a popular and well-established major at universities across the country. The reports that the profession is expected to grow at a 6% rate over the next ten years. Political Science is also excellent preparation for law school and graduate programs in public administration, public health, and public policy.
Program Highlights
The major requires 121 credit hours:
- 25-26 credits: General Education. Math, English, Religious Studies, Social Science, Lab Science
- 21 credits: Liberal Arts Core of foreign language, fine arts, and literature
- 48 credits: Major Requirements in Political Science, History, Philosophy, Psychology, and Religious Studies
- 27 credits: Elective courses
- Students will be encouraged to complete at least one internship.
- Students will complete challenging research projects as part of their coursework.
What You鈥檒l Study
Coursework in the program is designed to help students acquire a depth of knowledge and understanding concerning political institutions, political behavior, political philosophy, and political theory. It will also strengthen their analytical, communication, and research abilities. Areas of study include Political Science, History, Philosophy, Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, and Religious Studies. Courses include topics such as:
- American Government
- Comparative Politics
- Politics on Film
- International Law
- United States Foreign Policy
- Political History of the Space Age
- U.S. Constitutional Law
- Justice and Society
- Social and Political Theologies
- Environmental Politics
- World Politics
- Public Policy
- Contemporary Moral Issues
- Cultural Anthropology
Complementary Minors
The major requires students to take several courses in both History and Philosophy, so adding a few additional courses in either area will make a minor. Also, the content of these disciplines often relate and speak to one another.
Careers with a BA in Political Science
Political Science is a versatile degree that teaches high-value skills in research, communication, and analysis. These skills have wide applications in both the private and public sectors and can launch a career in politics and policy, nonprofit work, business, media, law, or higher education. These may include:
- Politics/Government
- Diplomacy
- Consultant/Lobbyist
- Policy Analyst/Researcher
- Communications/Media
- Agency Administration
- Public Relations
- Market Research
