2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog
Political Science, B.A. |
Political Science
Thinking creatively and devising solutions to problems are among the abilities most needed in today’s society. The student majoring in Political Scienceengages in these activities and acquires the capability to be an independent and original thinker. The breadth of the program provides the opportunity to study political theory, national and international politics, and specific area studies. A wide variety of career options is available for students who choose to major in Political Science, including jobs in federal, state, and/or local government as well as positions in nonprofit groups, business areas, journalism, political campaigns, various sectors of public service, intelligence analysis, teaching,law (Pre-Law Information) and potential employment in foreign countries. Preparation for Secondary Teacher Certification in Social Studies can also be achieved through the Political Science major. This major also provides an academic foundation for students to pursue graduate study in either law or related academic fields.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the graduate will earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Political Science and will be able to:
- Communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
- Apply creative and critical thinking skills to current political issues.
- Apply problem-solving skills to current political issues.
- Describe (and compare) the social, economic, and political institutions that comprise our political process at the national and international levels.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations, development, and impacts of the principles of major foreign and domestic policy actions.
Progression Criteria/Degree Requirements
In order to remain in the major, a student must not earn a grade less than C in any major course more than two times. For example, a student earns less than C in two major courses. The student retakes each course and earns a C or above. If the same student earns less than C in a third major course, she/he may be counseled out of the major.
Admission Criteria From Another Major
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 and meet with their academic advisor.
Internship Requirement
Students in the major are required to complete a minimum of three (3) credits internship experience in settings related to political science. See A&S 495 in the Course Descriptions section of this catalog for specific details. The Student Teaching Practicum ( EDU 497 ) fulfills the internship requirement for Secondary Education students.
Major Requirements: 45 Credits
- CDM 206 Effective Public Speaking 3 Credits
- HIST 102 The American Heritage: 1603–1865 3 Credits
- HIST 103 The American Heritage: 1865–Present 3 Credits
- POLSC 101 The American Political Process 3 Credits*
- POLSC 204 Comparative Politics 3 Credits
- POLSC 205 International Relations 3 Credits
- POLSC 460 Research Seminar 3 Credits
- POLSC ELEC. Political Science Electives 21 Credits
Political Science Electives
Political Science electives are listed below in three categories that are designed to allow a student, if he or she wishes, to concentrate in one or more areas.
American Politics and Public Policy
- POLSC 203 Local and State Government 3 Credits
- POLSC 240 American Political Parties 3 Credits
- POLSC 311 Constitutional Law and Civil Liberties 3 Credits
- POLSC 350 Politics and the Environment 3 Credits
International Relations and Contemporary Issues
- POLSC 214 Contemporary International Political Issues 3 Credits
- POLSC 217 United States Foreign Relations 3 Credits
- POLSC 310 Contemporary American Political Issues 3 Credits
- POLSC 324 Developing Nations 3 Credits
International Studies
- IS 340 Europe 3 Credits
- IS 342 Latin America 3 Credits
- IS 344 Africa 3 Credits
- IS 346 East Asia 3 Credits
- IS 348 Middle East and South Asia 3 Credits
- IS 350 Russia 3 Credits