Political Science
The discipline of political science helps students develop their minds and, one hopes, also their characters to become decent, responsible, and informed citizens. Aristotle said that political science is the architectonic science because it is concerned with the comprehensive good for human beings. The ordinary citizen has decent opinions about justice and the common good. The educated citizen should move from opinion toward understanding and knowledge, while maintaining good will, sincerity, tolerance, generosity, and fairness. A political education in the liberal arts tradition helps students develop the ability to engage in rational and civil discourse about politics, look at difficult political issues from contrary points of view, and make prudent political judgments based on sound reflection.
The program’s course offerings cover the full range of subfields in the discipline of political science: American government and politics, including constitutional law; political theory; comparative politics; and international relations, including American foreign policy.
The Political Science program offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees.
Pre-Law
Political science has long been the traditional major of choice for students who plan to attend law school. While law schools do not require any particular undergraduate major, the study of politics, including courses that make use of legal materials and legal reasoning and that illumine the political context of court decisions, is arguably the most logical and appropriate area for those intending a career in law. Pre-law students should consult with faculty in the program on which particular courses in political science and in other programs would most suitably prepare them on matters having to do with applying to and success in law school.
Off-Campus Experiences
The program supports students seeking opportunities for off-campus experiences in regular semester or summer internships. In recent years, students have had internships in law offices, on political campaigns, and with the national government.
Career Opportunities
An undergraduate major in political science provides a good foundation for careers in politics, public administration, international service, law, business, journalism, and education as well as graduate work in the discipline.
Secondary Teacher Certification
Students interested in majoring in political science for the purpose of becoming secondary school teachers should work with the Education Department to ensure that all requirements are met for licensure in Illinois.