Political science is a wide ranging discipline composed of many separate fields and specializations at the local, national and international levels. What holds all the separate fields together is a common interest in questions regarding the following: governmental and international institutions and their sources of power, political conflict and its resolution, political mechanisms for defining and achieving justice, and the origins and results of policy choices at the local, national, and international level, among other things. The Department addresses these and other issues through a variety of courses in American government, comparative government, and international relations. Given the diversity of interests within the field, majors will work with their advisor to tailor their program to their particular interest. Most are encouraged to undertake internships or engage in other experiences to bolster their understanding of political processes. Majors are encouraged to take courses outside the Department that support their academic interests and/or their career goals.
Those with a very strong interest in international politics and issues might want to consider the global studies major. Students may choose to major in political science or do one of the two minors.