Political Science (B.A.)

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Student Learning Outcomes for Political Science:

Students will be able to:

Explain the major theories, concepts, and methods of political analysis – empirical, normative, and policy-oriented.
Apply theories, concepts, and methods used in the study of politics to political ideas, institutions, and practices.
Exercise critical judgment, analyze, and synthesize relevant information and construct reasoned argument.
Communicate effectively and fluently in speech and in writing.
Conduct independent, original research, demonstrating the ability to gather, organize, and present evidence, data, and information from a variety of primary and secondary sources.
Be involved in matters of public concern locally, nationally, and globally.

The Political Science major requires the following courses:

PS 111 - SSC American National Government
PS 150 - NCH Introduction to Comparative Politics
PS 223 - History of Western Political Thought I: Ancient to Renaissance or
PS 224 - History of Western Political Thought II: Enlightenment to Modern
PS 230 - Research Methods
PS 245 - NCH International Relations
PS 498 - Senior Seminar in Political Science
An additional 20 credits of political science courses
Participation in a for-credit experiential-learning or off-campus study program approved by the Department and the Office of Registration and Records. Examples of such programs include: the Department’s Capital Semester Internship Program (PS 471 ), the Queen’s University International Study Centre at Herstmonceux Castle; the American University Washington Semester Program; BCA Study Abroad programs; the Summer Study Abroad Oxford, England, Programme; and May term international experiences sponsored by individual faculty and Departments. Approved political science courses in these off-campus programs will count toward the major.

Note:

For information about the American University Washington Semester Program, students should contact Dr. Fletcher McClellan. For internship opportunities in Harrisburg through the Department’s Capital Semester Internship Program (PS 471), students should contact Dr. April Kelly-Woessner.