POLITICAL SCIENCE
The Political Science major examines political ideas, institutions, cultures, and relationships across local, national, and global contexts. Students engage with competing perspectives on democracy, justice, human nature, war and peace, and the role of government in society.
Students examine major questions in political thought, including human nature, the good life, justice, democracy, and the role of political institutions. They encounter competing perspectives and learn to evaluate how political ideas shape societies.
Students study democratic, authoritarian, and totalitarian systems alongside different political institutions and cultures. Coursework also explores international politics and the dynamics of war and peace, helping students understand political issues from historical and global perspectives.
Students develop the ability to evaluate proposals for political and social reform. They consider how institutions and policies can be changed to strengthen justice and address challenges facing communities and societies.
Students strengthen critical thinking and communication skills through discussion, research, writing, argumentation, and interdisciplinary study. A senior capstone provides an opportunity to bring these skills together through advanced study.
The Political Science major combines political philosophy, American government, comparative politics, and world politics. Students choose from multiple areas of political study while also completing coursework that connects politics to history, literature, humanities, languages, and culture.
The major’s interdisciplinary approach encourages students to examine political questions through multiple ways of thinking and knowing. Students develop the analytical and communication skills needed to understand complex political issues and participate thoughtfully in civic and professional life.
Political Science prepares students for careers and further study involving government, law, public policy, advocacy, communication, international affairs, nonprofit organizations, and community leadership. The major’s emphasis on analysis and communication also provides broadly applicable skills for careers across the public and private sectors.
Students can connect their political science coursework to professional experiences in government, campaigns, nonprofits, advocacy organizations, public affairs, and other civic settings. These experiences can help students explore career interests while developing professional networks and practical skills.
Political Science provides a strong foundation for graduate and professional programs in law, public policy, political science, international affairs, public administration, and related fields. Students interested in a specific professional pathway can work with faculty to select courses and experiences that support their goals.
