What is Political Science?
What is Political Science?
Political Science is the rigorous and, where possible, systematic study of governments, political processes, public policies, and political behavior. The field of Political Science is conventionally divided into four main subject areas: American Government, Political Theory, International Relations, and Comparative Politics. The Department offers an introductory course and advanced courses in all of these areas, as well as in related areas such as political economy.
What are the educational goals of the Department?
1. Provide students the background necessary to be informed participants in the political process and global citizens in Political Science courses.
2. Provide majors with a substantive knowledge of the field of political science and its subfields (American politics, political theory, comparative politics, and international relations) at the level that can be expected of an undergraduate major.
3. Strengthen students’ analytical and reasoning skills.
4. Ensure that students have information literacy and are able to use this knowledge to conduct basic research.
5. Ensure that students can communicate effectively about Political Science issues both orally and in writing.
6. Provide career preparation in related fields as well as real world exposure through internships where applicable.