The Department of Political Science seeks to assist students in developing a sophisticated understanding of political ideas, institutions, and behavior as well as an ability to analyze public policy issues critically.  It provides courses and seminars dealing with political theory, various aspects of the American political system, government and politics in foreign countries, and international relations.

Summary of Major Requirements:
^{for a full list, click on Department Requirements on the left}

Ten courses in Political Science, as follows:
1 - At least one course in Political Theory, American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Politics, and Methodology (the same courses cannot count for two subfields)
2  -  A  seminar numbered 450-489
3 - A major paper (can be met by completing an honors thesis or by writing a 20+ page paper in a seminar or independent study, but it is up to departmental approval)