Political Science

J. Kevin Corder, Chair
James M. Butterfield
John A. Clark
Paul Clements
Suhashni Datta-Sandhu
Emily Hauptmann
Gunther M. Hega
Susan Hoffmann
David G. Houghton
Mark Hurwitz
Alan C. Isaak
Ashlyn Kuersten
Priscilla Lambert
Mahendra Lawoti
Peter G. Renstrom
Sybil D. Rhodes
Jacinda Swanson
Peter Wielhouwer

Courses in the department are designed to prepare a student to: (1) become a functioning citizen; (2) become a teacher of government or civics; (3) become a governmental employee or officer; (4) understand the part government plays in everyday business or other activities; (5) develop sound methods of investigation and reflection as well as the ability to evaluate political information critically; (6) understand the role that individuals and organized groups can play in the political process; and (7) appreciate the relationship of the study of government and public affairs to other social sciences. Students who wish to major or minor in political science should come to the department office as soon as possible to complete the appropriate declaration form and to consult with a departmental advisor.

Institute of Government and Politics

The Department of Political Science houses and administers the Institute of Government and Politics (IGP). The mission of IGP is multidimensional. It is organized to serve the professional staff of the Department of Political Science in their varied fields of interest and specialization. It will assist in meeting the needs of the department’s student body by extending their educational experiences beyond the confines of the classroom. IGP also reaches out into the larger community, to the university, its immediate environment, the state and national scene, as well as the international arena. In this regard, IGP gives particular attention to the practical applications of political science training. It is therefore charged with the development of relationships between the Department of Political Science and the various colleges, departments, and programs comprising the University.

Foreign Study

Study abroad is encouraged by the Political Science Department. University funds are available to assist students who would like to spend a semester studying abroad. Credit toward any of the majors in political science can be obtained while studying in other countries. To explore these opportunities, talk with one of the faculty in the Political Science Department or contact the Study Abroad Director or Coordinator, B-2425 Ellsworth Hall.

Honors Program

The honors program in political science provides an opportunity for students to earn the bachelor’s degree with honors in political science. To be eligible, a student must have sophomore standing, a better than “B” average, and a willingness to do original and independent work. Students interested in the program should consult the departmental honors advisor, Dr. Peter Renstrom.

Programs of Study

Programs of study offered by the department include: (1) a standard major and minor in political science; (2) a major in political science with an international and comparative politics concentration; (3) a major in political science with a public law concentration; (4) a major in political science with an American public policy concentration; and (5) a teaching major and minor in political science.