More than any other social science, Political Science uses a wide variety of approaches to explain how and why political events and institutions come about as they do, and to evaluate the actions of polities, policies, and leaders.

The Political Science major develops reading, writing, and thinking skills needed for a critical understanding of the political world. The major is excellent preparation for those planning to go on to law or public policy schools as well as to graduate work in Political Science. Majors in the department have pursued careers worldwide in public service, journalism, advocacy, law, and education, to name a few.