Political Science Major and Learning Outcomes

Political Science Major Mission Statement

The mission of the political science major is to provide, within the liberal arts program of DeSales University, an education in its academic discipline and, consonant with the philosophy of the University, to incorporate the Christian humanist perspective as developed by St. Francis DeSales and his spiritual heirs into its course of studies.

Political Science Major Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of all graduation requirements from DeSales University, political science majors will be able to:

1. understand the types of evidence used by political scientists in their analysis of the four sub-fields of political science: American federal government, political thought; international politics and comparative politics.
2. prove proficiency in concepts and terms used by scholars, policy-makers, and other actors to analyze politics;
3. exhibit critical thinking skills about the foundations of government;
4. demonstrate their knowledge of politics through written and oral communication;
5. perform information literacy skills.

The program in political science emphasizes the policy analysis approach in its curriculum. This emphasis serves to coordinate and integrate the various courses and disciplines that the student studies during his/her college career. It seeks to develop the student’s analytical skills, as well as his/her oral-written communications skills. It helps to provide the student with marketable skills, particularly when the student undertakes an internship or study abroad.