The major in Politics introduces students to the main themes, issues and questions of the academic study of politics, and rests upon two related bases. First it provides training in the four sub-fields of politics: American politics, comparative politics, political theory, and international relations. Second, it emphasizes the normative and philosophical dimensions of politics and public policy.
Course Sequence - Class of 2018 and Beyond
Freshman Year
Conversatio I - Conversatio II
Freshman English (or Other Core Requirement) - Freshman English (or Other Core Requirement)
Language - Language
American Politics - International Relations
In the sophomore year: Politics majors generally take their comparative politics and political theory requirements. Depending on initial placement, they may also be completing their modern or classical language requirement. The remainder of their schedules can be filled by major (Politics Department) electives, other core requirements, general electives, or courses for a minor or double major.
In the junior year: Politics majors generally take two major electives over the course of the year, and their research methods requirement in the spring semester. Students who study abroad will need to take Research Methods at a different time. The rest of students' schedules can be occupied with core requirements, general electives, or courses for a minor or double major.
In the senior year: Politics majors generally take two major electives over the course of the year, and their senior seminar requirement in the fall semester. The rest of their schedules can be occupied with core requirements, general electives, or courses for a minor or double major.
The major in Politics introduces students to the main themes, issues and questions of the academic study of politics, and rests upon two related bases. First it provides training in the four sub-fields of politics: American politics, comparative politics, political theory, and international relations. Second, it emphasizes the normative and philosophical dimensions of politics and public policy.
Major requirements include:
Course Requirements:
Students must take a minimum of 10 courses, listed below.
- PO 102 - American Government
- PO 104 - Comparative Politics
- PO 106 - International Relations
- PO 203 - Political Science Research Methods
- PO 208 - Elements of Political Theory: Classical or
- PO 209 - Elements of Political Theory: Modern
- Four electives taken from any of the other courses offered by the Politics Department
- PO 478 - Senior Seminar
One political theory course
One political theory course:
Senior comprehensive exam
*Senior Comprehensive Examination: All students must take a written comprehensive exam in their senior year.