Political Science is the study of government and public policy and of the political behavior of individuals, groups and institutions.
Political Science provides an understanding of issues such as international diplomacy, environmental, economics, health care policy, and election campaigns.
At least 3 credits beyond the freshman level must be completed in each of the areas below.
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
Comparative Political Systems, examples:
| 3 |
International Relations, examples:
| 3 |
Political Theory, examples:
| 3 |
Methodology, examples:
| 3 |
United States Government, examples:
| 3 |
Electives; includes courses and/ or tests in any of the above mentioned areas or in related subject areas | 18 |
POL 499: Capstone | 3 |
Student Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with a concentration in Political Science will be able to:
- explain the role of societal values in politics and the policy making process;
- explain the dynamics of power and politics in the domestic and global contexts;
- demonstrate knowledge of the subspecialties of political science: International Relations, American Government, Political Theory, State and Local Government, Public Administration, Comparative Politics, Constitutional Law, Political Science Methodology, etc.;
- analyze the links between politics, values, and policy outcomes;
- analyze the fundamentals of politics, political processes and political problems and patterns, such as inequality, group conflict, institutional failure, war, international conflict, terrorism, etc.;
- identify levels of analysis and actors involved in government and politics;
- identify and evaluate relations among political, economic, and social systems; and
- conduct research using methods appropriate to the discipline; and
- synthesize their learning of the concentration through a research paper, project, portfolio, or practicum.