Political Science Learning Outcomes

Students who receive a B.A. in Political Science will:

  • Understand key concepts and concerns in political science including notably the way power is acquired and exercise at the state and/or national levels and international levels
  • Illustrate a broad understanding of the four major subfields of political science, including American politics, international relations, comparative politics and political
  • Become conversant in current political events through a close reading of the news and interpretation of events through political science theories and concepts
  • Develop the ability to evaluate and synthesize information from diverse and reliable sources, identifying and differentiating between primary and secondary source material
  • Bring research skills to bear on a specific issue related to politics, producing a research paper, opinion paper, personal reflection or analytical essay
  • Exhibit familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods by students of political science to pose and answer questions and conduct research
  • Effectively develop a logical argument and justify a position through written and oral presentations and demonstrate the ability to read and question original research and theoretical writings
  • Understanding of the relationship between personal ethics, individual decision-making and public outcomes at the national and international levels