Political Science

The aim of the study of Political Science is to understand the way in which, for a society, policy is formulated and executed, and to understand the moral and legal authority by which policy is or ought to be set. The center of interest for this program is the study of power, governmental institutions and of the state of human relations in their political context.

Emphasis is placed on enhancing the student's overall understanding of democracy and the administration of government so that he or she can become an effective citizen, and providing the knowledge and skills necessary to broaden career options in political science and public administration related fields.

Students majoring in Political Science can choose an emphasis in American Government, Global Studies or Public Administration. The choice of an emphasis should be made following consultation with his or her advisor by the second semester of the sophomore year or, for transfer juniors, prior to registering for the student’s second semester of course work.