Political Science
History and Political Science Department
Evelyn Spratt, Ph.D., Interim Dean, School of Arts, Sciences and Business
Anne E. Henderson, Ph.D., Chair
Jennifer L. Erdman, Ph.D.
Adam Knight, Ph.D.
Campuses
Summary
The Political Science curriculum offers in-depth instruction in American Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Affairs.
Traditional Undergraduate
The History/Political Science Department of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business offers a Major and Minor in Political Science to traditional undergraduate students. Students in the Program may specialize in international relations, public service, law and civic engagement, or public leadership. History and political science provide an important bridge between the humanities and the social sciences. Together they invite students to develop a wide perspective on humanity and its institutions in the past, the present and the future. They also offer students a rich variety of career preparations in academic, public or private sector opportunities.
The Program of Study in Political Science is designed to introduce students to the concepts and theories for understanding a broad range of political problems and to develop analytical skills for thinking and acting responsibly in the diverse field of political affairs. The Program is particularly distinctive for its focus on the role of women in politics, as well as issues of justice and peace. It offers unique perspectives on problems of political violence, terrorism, genocide, and human rights abuses, and provides students with experiential learning opportunities to grapple with these problems in real-world contexts.
The student is encouraged to seek practical experience in politics and law through internships in federal, state and local agencies arranged through consultation with the department advisor. The Department also sponsors a chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha (Alpha Delta Nu) for students who meet the membership requirements for this national honor society in political science.
The emphasis throughout is to plan a program with experiences to develop the student's potential, whether her interests and talents direct her toward graduate or professional study or toward employment in the public or private sector upon graduation. Political Science graduates have earned advanced degrees at institutions such as the University of Notre Dame School of Law, University of Maryland School of Law, University of Maryland School of Social Work, The Catholic University of America and George Washington University. Graduates are employed by organizations such as Sinai Hospital, MBNA Corporation, Primerica Financial Services, Legg Mason and Catholic Relief Services.
The following courses fulfill the general education requirements
Thinking Critically and Analytically: POL-101
Understanding and Valuing Diverse Identities and Perspectives, Diversity: HIS-252, POL-252
Understanding and Valuing Diverse Identities and Perspectives, Intercultural: HIS-290, POL-290, POL-351
Becoming an Engaged Citizen: POL-217, POL-344
Students must earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 in all courses taken to complete the requirements of the Political Science Major.
Degrees and Certificates
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Political Science, Major -
Politics and History, Major -
Peace and Justice Studies, Minor -
Political Science, Minor