Program Offerings
A political science major studies the use of authority and influence in society within legal, political, human, and governmental contexts. This flexible program is designed to:
- develop an understanding of the nature of political power, so students can become effective citizens and leaders
- provide knowledge and develop the intellectual skills that enable students to successfully enter and complete law school and graduate school
- develop the talents of students for future leadership
A political science major or minor combines well with business administration, history and other majors.
Program Methods
A variety of teaching and learning methods are used in the political science program. This challenging, people-oriented approach to teaching allows for the development of strong verbal/oratory skills and reasoning skills. Methods include:
- class discussions
- essay exams
- class presentations
- political clubs
- debates and supporting discussions
- participation in student government
- analytical research papers and policy papers
- internships
- simulations of political institutions and processes
- study off campus in D.C., Europe, and elsewhere
Courses of Study
The political science major includes a variety of course offerings, in such areas as American politics, political parties and behavior, international politics, legislative and executive behavior, state and local politics, constitutional law, current legal issues, 20th century world history, and political thought. Course content is designed to prepare students for law and graduate school, as well as for careers immediately following graduation.
Requirements for a Political Science Minor
Complete 18 credits of Political Science courses.
Secondary Education Course Requirements
Teachers are certified for secondary schools when completing a teaching major or endorsement in one of the following areas: art, biology, business principles, chemistry, English, English/language arts, French, German, history, mathematics, music, natural science, physical science, political science, social science, Spanish, speech communication and theatre, and theatre and drama.
Additional requirements include:
- Complete seven courses in Education at the 200-400 level
- Complete the special methods requirement in each of the teaching majors
- Complete the cognate in Information Science and Technology
- Attain a 3.00 GPA in education courses, 2.80 GPA in teaching major, and 2.80 cumulative GPA
- Receive the recommendation of the Teacher Education Committee
- Complete 12 graduate credits in the summer immediately following graduation and prior to certification.
A second teaching major or endorsement is required when majoring in the following: Biology, Business Principles, Chemistry, English, French, German, History, Physical Education, Physics, Political Science, Spanish, Speech Communication, and Theatre.
A computer science teaching endorsement or coaching endorsement may be added to the teaching majors. See the requirements listed under Information Science and Technology.