The political science program is designed to provide students with a quality liberal arts education that builds on the content of the core curriculum. At the most basic level, the program allows students to develop an understanding of politics and government and of the role of individuals and groups within the political and governmental systems. The program is designed to prepare students for graduate education in a variety of social science fields and/or for entrance into careers in the public service systems at the international, federal, state or local levels.
The Criminal Justice and Political Science programs are for people interested in careers in government administration and policymaking, criminal justice administration and law enforcement, foreign service, law and teaching. Many private sector employers find the knowledge base and analytical skills developed by Political Science majors to be valuable. The baccalaureate degrees will also prepare those students who wish to pursue subsequent graduate degrees in criminal justice, political science, public administration, public policy, urban planning, and law. The Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Education, and Specialist in Education degree programs provide fifth and sixth-year certification to those who wish to have a teaching content concentration in broad field social science.