Department of Political Science and International Relations

Learning Outcomes in Political Science

• 1. Development of knowledge of political life in a variety of settings.

  1. Students will demonstrate knowledge of political institutions and processes in the United States

  2. Students will demonstrate knowledge of political institutions and processes in at least one non-U.S. region

  3. Students will be able to compare and contrast political institutions and processes among different regions and cultures

  4. Students will understand the principles, actors, structures and processes related to conflict and cooperation in the international system.

  2. Development of analytic, quantitative, and research skills (College Mission Reference:

  1. Students will demonstrate basic descriptive statistics, multivariate analysis, probability issues, inferential statistics, and use of statistical computer software related to the study of political science

  2. Students will demonstrate an understanding the benefits and limitations of different data collection strategies

  3. Students will be able to critically assess published political science research.

  3. Development of skills in written and oral exposition

  1. Students will demonstrate competency in the effective oral presentation of original ideas and supporting material.

  2. Students will demonstrate competency in the effective written presentation of original ideas and supporting material.

  4. Ability to think critically about normative questions as they apply to political life.

  1. Students will be able to apply classic and contemporary political theory to contemporary political events

  5. Gain substantive knowledge of the different facets of political life as reflected in the the four sub-disciplines of Political Science: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory.

  1. Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of political institutions and processes in the United States

  2. Students will be able to compare and contrast political institutions and processes among different regions and cultures

  3. Students will be able to apply classic and contemporary political theory to contemporary political events

  4. Students will understand the principles, actors, structures and processes related to conflict and cooperation in the international system

  6. Prepare students for citizen engagement

  1. Students will develop skills necessary for active participation in political life.

Learning Outcomes in International Relations

• 1. Students in International Relations should possess an understanding of the principles, the actors (state and non-state), structures and processes in the international system.

  2. Students should demonstrate a familiarity with the key political, economic, social, and cultural-religious features of various political systems (western and non-western), particularly as they inform the roles and policies of international actors.

  3. Students will acquire a basic understanding of economics, particularly as it affects issues in international relations, and an acquaintance with the historical development and key themes in US foreign policy are also essential.

  4. Students are expected to develop expertise in one of the major subfields of international relations: political economy, security studies, development, and regional processes.

  5. Upon completion of the major, students should be able to critically analyze contemporary international relations, applying theoretical perspectives to substantive policy issues.