Politics and Government, Minor

Introduction

Students in the Department of Politics and Government explore the processes by which a community decides what common goals it wants to achieve, what its rules will be, and how those policies and rules will be carried out or enforced. Nothing is more important to a healthy society. We are fascinated by the political process in the United States and in the world and concerned about its outcome, and we welcome all students who share that interest.

While our program provides an excellent foundation for graduate study in political science and law, the primary focus of the department is to provide skills and habits of mind useful in a wide range of professions. Recent graduates of the department have found jobs and careers in law, politics, business, teaching, journalism, the non-profit world, and government service. Some of our graduates continue their educations in professional programs in law, business (MBA), international affairs, education, public administration, and other fields. Many work directly after college (often as staff members for elected officials or government agencies) before going on to graduate school.