Department Introduction

Political science is the study of governments, public policies and political behavior. It uses both humanistic and scientific perspectives and skills to examine all countries and regions of the world. Political scientists study politics, government and public policies. It reflects an interest in American politics and international affairs; critical issues such as health, the environment, or civil rights; and theories concerning the ideal government and how power and resources are allocated in society.

What careers are possible with a major in the political science department?

Political science students have a versatility of skills and a wide range of exciting careers in federal, state and local governments; law; business; international organizations; nonprofit associations and organizations; campaign management and polling; journalism; pre-collegiate education; electoral politics; research and university and college teaching. Upon graduation, many continue on to master’s and doctoral studies in political science, public administration, international relations, public policy and law.

What are the majors and minors within the Department?

The Department of Political Science offers a major and a minor in Political Science, but also more specialized programs in Public Law and Government (for those interested in the study and practice of law), Political Science for Teachers (for those interested in teaching high school), Public Administration (for those interested in state, federal, or local government administrative jobs), Public Safety Administrations (for those interested in police, fire and emergency management), and Nonprofit Administration. In addition, the Department is the University-wide contact point for PreLaw Advising.

Student Advising

All members of the faculty serve as undergraduate advisors, available during posted office hours or by appointment. Students enrolled in all of the majors and minors offered by the department are strongly expected to consult a faculty advisor when they declare the major and/or minor and prior to registration for classes each semester.

Graduate Studies in Public Administration

Graduate study in the Department of Political Science consists of a master of public administration degree and eight graduate certificates in specialized areas of public administration and in nonprofit management. A political science concentration is also possible under the interdisciplinary master of arts in social science that is administered by the History and Philosophy Department. These graduate programs are described in detail in the graduate catalogue.