The Political Science major invites students to reflect upon the ideas, movements, leaders, and cultural influences that shaped the political landscape of the American Republic in the past and continues to alter America’s politics in the present. Going beyond an understanding of politics and political institutions, the program’s faculty seek to influence tomorrow’s leaders in public service toward an ethical vision of government action within the framework of a Christian worldview. Through exposure to a broad set of readings, experiences, and other work, the politics and public policy program provides students with a background in the structure and trends of America’s political order and prepares them for public service.
Objectives:
On completion of the major, students should be able to:
-
Integrate Christian principles in critical thinking and decision-making in political science.
-
Understand U.S. political structure and historyhow politics influences and is influenced by the contemporary culture.
-
Critically examine concepts and theories regarding the interaction of faith and politics.
-
Gather and analyze data regarding political behavior and create work that provides a reasonable interpretation of data.
-
Produce written work and/or other materials at an advanced level, appropriate for entering graduate school or a vocation.
MAJOR36 Hours
-
Introductory Politics and Public Service 3
-
U.S. Politics or Law6
-
International Relations3
-
Political Theory3
-
Senior Seminar, Thesis, or Internship3
-
Political Science Electives18
