Political Science, B.A.

Students who major in Political Science at the undergraduate level through the College of Arts and Sciences , will begin with the study of a rich array of courses that cover the four major sub-fields of the discipline. This includes courses in: American Politics and Policy, Comparative Political Analysis, International and Global Politics, and Social Justice and Civil Engagement. Building on this foundation, students will take elective courses that both deepen their understanding of these fields and allow them to apply what they have learned to the real world in terms of analysis and activism (advocacy, and civic engagement). Emphasis is given to the common interdisciplinary pursuit of critical thinking as it applies to social problem solving. Beyond the core, students will select 21 hours of electives which will deepen their understanding and expertise of the program’s four fields: American Politics and Policy, Comparative Political Analysis, International and Global Politics, and Social Justice and Civil Engagement. This will allow them to tailor the program to meet their educational and career goals and be more competitive in the job-market. Depending on their career goals and objectives, graduates of the program will also have the theoretical understanding for graduate work in the social science disciplines and the practical skills that are highly in demand in government, public service, education, political advocacy, and the private sector.

Program Expected Student Outcomes

Upon completing the BA in Political Science program, students will be able to:

1. Analyze political theories, concepts, and institutions associated with American and Comparative politics and International Relations. 

2. Examine the mechanisms of other countries’ political and economic systems, the relations among countries in the international arena. 

3. Apply interdisciplinary theory and research methodology to political practice as a basis for citizenship and stimulate interest in graduate study and/or governmental service. 

4. Demonstrates the breadth, diversity, and development of Political Science as a discipline. 

5. Assess social justice as a mechanism of individual empowerment to challenge and change injustice within institutions.