Political Science

Political Science Major

Political Science is the study of politics, government, and public policy. This includes the investigation of political institutions, international relations, law, and political values. The purpose of classes in political science is to provide students with knowledge to assist them in understanding how government and politics affect their everyday lives. A political science major offers the student career opportunities in public service, business, and education. Also, many students interested in attending law school select Political Science as a major. As part of its offerings the department offers a special program of pre-law advisement.

A total of 40 credits of major coursework is required for Political Science. All students are required to complete POLS 110 Introduction to Political Science or POLS 115 American Government, STAT 330 Introductory Statistics, POLS 325 Applied Research Methods, POLS 240 Political Ideologies, POLS 220 International Politics or POLS 225 Comparative Politics, and POLS 489 Senior Seminar. In addition, four 400-level classes must be taken; one from each of these areas: American government/political behavior (Area 1), law (Area 2), international relations (Area 3), and comparative politics (Area 4). The remaining nine credits of the major will consist of political science electives.

Political Science Minor

The minor in Political Science requires a minimum of 21 credits, including POLS 110 Introduction to Political Science or POLS 115 American Government, POLS 220 International Politics or POLS 225 Comparative Politics, and POLS 240 Political Ideologies. The remaining 12 credits for the minor, which are Political Science electives, must include at least 6 credits at the 400-level from Areas 1 through 4.

Pre-Law Option

The department offers a special Pre-Law emphasis for those individuals who wish to pursue careers in law. It consists of a major in Political Science with a concentration of law related courses, as well as required classes in English and communication. Electives in business, communication, criminal justice and accounting are also part of the emphasis. For further information and specific course requirements contact any political science faculty member.

Public Service Option

The department offers a special Public Service emphasis for those individuals who wish to pursue careers in public administration or related fields. It consists of a major in Political Science with a concentration of public policy and administration courses. Electives in accounting, management, communication, and related fields are also part of the emphasis. For further information and specific course requirements, contact any political science faculty member.

Plan of Study

Please note this is a sample plan of study and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress and customize an individual plan of study.