Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Major in Political Science

Political science is the study of government, the most important decision-making part of society, and of the social, economic, and other institutions and practices that influence this decision-making process. On the one hand, it is a discipline that can trace its roots to the ancient Greek political community, the polis; but it is also a modern social science, which uses techniques such as content analysis, public opinion surveys, and statistical analysis to create and evaluate generalizations about how government and people behave.As a liberal arts discipline, the department is dedicated to developing analytical skills, effective oral and written communication, and promoting critical thinking. Students are encouraged to reflect not simply on their career goals, but also on what type of persons they want to become, and on their rights and duties as citizens. The department's internship program prepares students for the transition from college to career by offering opportunities to earn academic credit and gain practical experience working for various federal, state, local, or non-profit community agencies. Political science prepares students for careers in various fields, not only in government, law, and education but also in business, journalism, urban planning, and many fields on which public policies have a significant effect.