Political Science

Introduction

Political Science analyzes political systems and processes on the local, state, national, and international levels.  The goals of the major include enhancing knowledge of the political world, the examination of values, the sharpening of analytical and writing skills, and the formulation of well-considered views. 

Introductory courses appropriate for prospective majors

The department recommends that a student test his/her interest in Political Science by taking at least one of the four introductory courses: 

POSC 120, American Government  

POSC 150, Comparative Politics 

POSC 170, International Relations 

POSC 180, Political Philosophy  

Such a choice will help the student decide whether or not to consider additional courses in the discipline and, at the same time, will meet departmental major requirements.   

NOTE:  The numbering of the four introductory courses is arbitrary and is NOT meant to indicate the relative difficulty or the order in which they should be taken.  Where one begins should be determined largely by student interest. 

Introductory courses that fulfill distribution requirements 

Division II:      

POSC 120, American Government

POSC 150, Comparative Politics 

POSC 170, International Relations 

POSC 180, Political Philosophy  

Course descriptions, requirements for the major refer to the College Bulletin: Political Science.  

Independent study or research and internships

Many majors take courses in independent study and research, as well as internships.  The department chair or departmental advisors should be consulted for details on topic options and general opportunities. 

Opportunities for off-campus study

Many off-campus programs offer the opportunity for the study of local, national, or comparative politics. Two opportunities often utilized by majors are at Dickinson's K. Robert Nilsson Center for European Studies in Bologna, Italy and the Washington Center in Washington, D.C., which provides courses and internships across a wide range of domestic and foreign policy issue areas. Please contact the appropriate coordinator for these and many other off-campus study possibilities. 

Additional remarks

Careers:  Majors go on to law school or graduate school in the social sciences or business, state, national or international government service, domestic and international corporations and journalism.