Political Science
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The Field
Political Science traditionally examines social and political behaviors (politics), the varied contexts in which they occur (governments), and the ideas and ideals which motivate persons in public life (political thought). The department believes that this study cannot be reduced to any single theory or method; consequently, diverse interests and approaches characterize its academic life. Current faculty interests incline toward the study of institutions, law, political development, and theory.
The Major
Political Science students may focus their major toward graduate and professional studies or career choices. For example, American Political Management focuses on the growing field of campaign management, lobbying, community organizing, public affairs consulting, or legislative service. Global Political Studies includes foreign and security policy, political economy, democratic reform, war and conflict, and new social movements. Social Science Education is designed for majors who wish to prepare for certification as a secondary school social studies teacher, and the option fulfills (along with other courses) the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ requirements. A focus on law may be of interest to students who consider themselves pre-law or wish to prepare for the criminal justice or paralegal professions.
The Minor
A minor in Political Science, or in one of the subfields of American Politics, Public Law, Public Administration, Political Theory, International Relations, or Comparative Politics/Area Studies, may be earned by the successful completion of a minimum of five three-credit courses in Political Science; only one may be at the introductory level. All courses toward the Political Science minor must be taken for a letter grade. Students, with an academic adviser, often develop a course of study for the minor.
The Future
Political Science is valuable preparation for law school; business and corporate positions in environmental protection, consumer affairs, and public affairs; journalism; government jobs in environmental protection, criminal justice, public health and welfare, and transportation; local management and administration in planning, zoning, housing, human resource management, law enforcement, budgeting and finance; secondary-level teaching of social studies; positions with nonprofit research and advocacy organizations, grassroots development, or refugee assistance organizations; educational administration; and university-level teaching.
Internships and Study Abroad
Several types of internships with government institutions, non-profit advocacy groups, research organizations, and public service agencies (including law offices) are available. Students can earn graduation credits while working temporarily in a professional position. More information is available from the department’s internship coordinator. Numerous opportunities exist for study at other institutions, including the Five College Consortium, North American colleges and universities participating in the National Student Exchange, and a variety of foreign universities. The department has a special undergraduate student exchange with the Department of Politics at the University of Warwick in Coventry, England. Other opportunities are available as well. Go to the International Programs Office for details.
More Information: Department of Political Science: 413.545.2695
