The political science major seeks to develop a critical perspective toward the structure and operation of political systems and the major philosophical questions presented by these systems, acquainting students with different substantive areas and exposing them to several different methods of analysis, such as historical, legal, institutional, theoretical, and empirical. Political science majors develop strong research and analytical skills while exploring topics such as the philosophies on which governments have been founded, the ways in which citizens affect and are affected by their governments, and the relationships among nation-states in the international community. An education in political science exposes students to issues of public policy over which people struggle and disagree not only in the United States, but also in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Students study the latest research findings on city government and urban development, parties and elections, the legislative and judicial systems, international organizations, and other aspects of the governmental process. After graduation, students may find that their work in political science leads them to a vast number and variety of careers.
Many students pursue careers in law.
Others attend schools of public and international affairs and prepare for careers as foreign service diplomats, as policy analysts in federal or state governments, or as city managers or administrators. Some graduates choose to engage in politics more directly. Still other graduates find that their knowledge of politics and skill in analyzing complex institutions offer an excellent preparation for a career in journalism. Finally, business institutions employ political science graduates because of the students' ability to communicate with others with precision and vigor. Political science majors have a familiarity with large organizations and difficult choices, as well as an understanding of foreign and domestic government institutions, which increasingly impinge on the decisions and operations of U. S. and multi-national corporations.