BA-Political Science
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Program Code
Program Title
Program Level
Degree
Department
Distance Education Program
Program Description
Vision Statement
The Political Science program seeks to attract talented students who are intellectually curious about political life and global affairs. As a dedicated community of teaching and learning, we strive to promote awareness and understanding of the key perennial questions concerning the nature of politics. Our efforts will draw strength from Gannon’s Catholic Identity and emphasis on Liberal Learning, and contribute to the enhancement of the intellectual life of the University.
Mission Statement
The Political Science program is dedicated to providing our students with the necessary perspectives to critically and normatively evaluate the wide variety of political regimes that have existed in different time periods and different parts of the world. Our students will develop an understanding of the purpose of politics as the effort to structure a community dedicated to the promotion of justice and the common good. This understanding is developed by making connections across the various academic disciplines, applying moral reasoning to public affairs, and cultivating the virtue of prudence.
Objectives
The Political Science program offers an undergraduate curriculum leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree. It also provides the opportunity for students to pursue a dual major or acquire one or two minors. The program covers the four major subfields of political science: American Politics, Political Theory, Comparative Government and International Relations. The curriculum provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in either graduate school or law school, or directly pursue a career in the public, private or not for profit sectors.
Career Opportunities
Individuals with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science may qualify for administrative and management trainee positions in such fields as legislative and policy research, public relations, personnel work, budget analysis, security investigation, etc. Employment opportunities also include such professional careers as college and university teaching, law, city management, urban planning, public administration, policy research and analysis, foreign service and any other careers with local, national and international organizations both public and private.