Department Description: Are you interested in American politics; international affairs; critical issues such as health, the environment, and civil rights; theories concerning the ideal government and how power and resources are allocated in society? If so, you should consider studying political science. Politics affects the air we breathe, the way we’re educated, the jobs we do, the communities we live in and the taxes we pay. By studying Political Science, you’ll learn the principles at work behind the decisions that affect very aspect of our lives. Political science students study the systems people set up to organize their societies, from neighborhoods to nations.

Department Learning Outcomes:

• Identify and apply alternative explanatory systems or theories.
• Identify and communicate alternative explanations for contemporary social issues.
• Identify the methods and data that historians and social and behavioral sciences use to investigate the human condition.
• Examine social institutions and processes across a range of historical periods or cultures.

Special Department Information: Courses in Political Science require students to read and understand written material, and to express themselves in writing and class discussion. Therefore it is suggested that students have college level study and communication skills.

Transfer Opportunities: The analytical, critical thinking, and communications skills honed in Political Science courses enhance a student’s chance for success in any major. Most 4-year colleges and universities have degree programs in Political Science, and it is the most frequent undergraduate major for law students.

Career Opportunities: Political science students enjoy a versatility of skills and a wide range of exciting careers in federal, state, and local governments; law; business; international organizations; nonprofit organizations; campaign management and polling; journalism; education; electoral politics; research; and university and college teaching. in fact, any field that requires analytical and communication skills offers potential employment opportunities for Political Science students.