Political Science

BA Major • Minor

Political Science

Discern how to do the difficult work of making long-lasting and positive change

Politics can completely overwhelm us. The work of faithful political action is often incremental, persistent, and remarkably difficult. 91è��'s political science program provides you the foundation you need to understand how Christians can faithfully engage in politics and public justice.

91è�� prepares you to make a meaningful impact in your career, community and life.

Practical Experience

Engage in hands-on internships with state offices, law firms, political campaigns, and more

Off-Campus Study Options

Spend a semester studying off-campus through one of 91è��’s many programs

Study in Washington, D.C.

Spend a summer at the Institute of Comparative Economic and Political Systems in D.C.

Key Courses

Liberalism

Politics of Global Economics

Introduction to key concepts and basic theories about how institutions affect global economics, particularly in trade, finance and investment, debt and development.

Parties, Elections, and Interest Groups

Take a look at the structures behind American politics, and learn where they came from and what they do

Foreign & National Security Policy

Focus in on foreign policy and national and homeland security, both in the U.S. as well as other countries, with current topics like just war, privacy, security, and more

View Example Course Map

Experienced & Accomplished Faculty

Frederick Neikirk

Professor of Political Science and Chair, Department of History, Political Science, and Sociology

Brandon Zaffini

Assistant Professor of Political Science

Robert M. Frazier

Professor of Philosophy

Program Overview
Learning Objectives

The political science major seeks to help students understand and assess:

the discipline of political science
theories of politics
political systems and governmental structures
the tools used in social science research

In addition, the political science major encourages students to:

develop their reasoning, analytic, and communication skills
apply what they are learning to contemporary political issues
apply biblical perspectives to the study, practice, and transformation of politics

Working alongside the core curriculum, it provides students with:

a broad liberal arts background while training them in the discipline
knowledge they need for service in government, law, politics, teaching, policy analysis, private sector management, and more

Students within the political science major will gain knowledge of their discipline, reasoning, analytic, and communication skills, and biblical perspectives and faith integration.

Students will demonstrate knowledge of the various aspects included in the discipline of political science. These include the history and major approaches of the discipline, major normative theories of politics, the major empirical findings in various subfields, and relevant current events.
Students will demonstrate an ability to gather and analyze quantitative and qualitative data relating to political questions. They will also communicate clearly and effectively in written and oral form, with particular attention to the development and defense of arguments regarding political matters.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of and ability to apply biblical principles as they relate to the study of politics and government. Particularly, students will demonstrate their ability to apply their own "world and life view" to the study and practice of politics.

Career Outcomes

Graduates who aspire to have an impact in their communities and their careers through a 91è�� Education gain expertise in this field enhanced by academics rooted in Christian values and ethics in 91è��’s program.

100%

of graduates in the past five years found jobs either directly in the field or in related areas

6%

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth rate for political scientists from 2021-2031.

"My professors are passionate about what they teach, and how they teach instills that passion even more in me.” - Kylie, political science graduate

Be prepared for careers such as...

Lawyer
City Manager
Intelligence analyst
Law Enforcement

Further your impact...

Go on to law school and become a lawyer or paralegal
Work on with a political campaign or enter the public sphere yourself
Research and analyze behavior patterns as a consultant to media outlets and marketing companies

Tell Me More

Discover more about our Political Science program

Complete the following information to connect with an admissions counselor.

Related Programs

History

BA Major • Minor

Community Development

BA Major

Philosophy

BA Major • Minor