Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a major in Political Science will:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the field.
   1. Know the fundamentals of democratic theory and other philosophical approaches to politics
   2. Understand the interplay among and relationship between political institutions in the United States
   3. Become familiar with key influences on voting and political behavior
   4. Learn how to compare and evaluate competing political systems
   5. Plan and execute an original research paper on a major question in political science
2. Think critically.
   1. Participate in thoughtful and challenging classroom discussions
   2. Consider different perspectives through course readings
3. Demonstrate writing skills.
   1. Demonstrate proficiency in writing critical book reviews
   2. Demonstrate proficiency in writing term papers centered on big questions within respective courses
4. Integrate faith with the principles of Political Science.
   1. Develop a theological approach to politics
5. Demonstrate research skills.
   1. Plan and execute an original paper
   2. Show competency in research methods and design, drawing from both qualitative and quantitative approaches
6. Be prepared for post-graduate study.
   1. Consider applying to graduate/law school programs after graduation

Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree with major in Political Science