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Political Science (PL)

Description of the major

The Political Science Department seeks to instill in its students a lively interest in contemporary political issues, American politics, international relations, political theory, and the law. Students take three introductory courses followed by intermediate and advanced courses in four areas: American government, comparative government, international relations, and political theory. We offer a wide range of courses that span continents and diverse methods of inquiry

Our main goal is to help students think analytically and critically about how to assess political situations from both empirical and normative perspectives. We strive to cultivate in our students the habits and skills of clear thought, rigorous analysis, and effective argumentation in writing and speech. Our graduates have gone on to careers including (but not limited to) political consulting, law, journalism, finance, electoral politics, policymaking, education, and organizational leadership.

We aim to provide students with the historical and contemporary information they need to understand national and international political structures, behaviors, and ideas. In terms of analytical skills, we seek to offer students the methodological and technical training they require to collect, analyze, and interpret data; read texts carefully; and communicate their conclusions effectively and elegantly. In terms of critical abilities, we teach students to examine political issues and problems from both empirical and ethical viewpoints as a first step toward developing policy recommendations that can improve political participation, processes, and outcomes.

Political Science Department

3rd Floor, Ladd Hall
518-580-5240