Political Science (B.A., B.S.)

Student Success Advisor(s)

Sample Degree Plan

Program Summary

Political science is devoted to the study of the theory and practice of government and politics. The political science program complements a student’s liberal arts education with an emphasis on understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of political philosophy, public administration, law, international relations, and American government and policy. Vocational alternatives for political science majors include teaching, public management, law, and foreign service.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Students will develop a mastery of critical thinking skills by evaluating political developments individually, through research, and in course discussions.
• Students will be exposed to and understand alternative perspectives on political affairs by engaging in internships, study abroad, community service, and other experiential learning opportunities. Students will develop an understanding of the scholarship, analytical methods, and theories of politics in one or more of the discipline’s four sub-fields: American Politics, International Relations, Comparative Politics, and/or Political Theory.
• Students will develop and hone a mastery of oral and writing skills by communicating their perspectives, empirical findings, interpretations, and the conclusions of their research on political issues, policies, institutions, and behavior.

Program Information

• All courses must be passed with a “C-” (1.7) or better to be counted in the major.
• No more than 15 credits of lower-division political science courses may be counted toward the credits requirement for the major.
• No more than 12 credits of transfer courses will apply toward the major.
• Up to six (6) credits of POLS 4830 - Readings and Conference  may be used as track-specific electives with approval.