History/Political Science

History

Chair: Dr. Denise Holladay Damico

The study of history develops an awareness and understanding of the past, a sensitivity to the rich variety of human experience and aspirations and an appreciation for the extraordinary human capacity for good and for evil. Further, it illuminates the present and renders it intelligible by providing both context and direction.

Students of history learn to reason critically and analytically, to synthesize large bodies of information and to write clearly and effectively - skills that are applicable to any job setting. History graduates pursue a wide variety of careers, for example, in communications, business and industry, museum management, state and national park service and government at every level. The program of study provides the requisite background for graduate study and for the study of law. A professional program is also offered which combines the major concentration with specialized courses in education and leads to secondary teacher certification. For students wishing to extend their learning experience beyond the classroom, a variety of internship opportunities are available.

Political Science

Chair: Dr. Denise Holladay Damico
Coordinator: Dr. Mark C. Gentry

American politics. International affairs. Health care. Jobs. The environment. Civil rights. If you are interested in such matters, Political Science is a major you should consider. Political Science has been defined as the study of “who gets what, when, and how.” It involves the study of government and public policy, as well as the study of the behavior of individuals and groups in the pursuit of their interests. Political Science majors can develop skills in writing, communications, analysis, and research. Such skills are useful in various employment settings. Such flexibility is attractive at a time when students can expect to change jobs, and even careers, on a number of occasions. Political Science helps to prepare students for careers in law; local, state, and national government service; interest groups and organizations; business; political campaigns; journalism, and teaching. Valuable training is also provided for graduate school and for those who eventually seek elected or appointed positions in public life or in the non-profit sector. In addition, the Political Science program is designed to inform students’ interest in politics, to develop a deeper and fuller understanding of political processes, in short, to provide a solid conceptual foundation that can be built upon in their later lives as citizens. In the belief that learning extends beyond the walls of the classroom, experiential educational opportunities in the form of internships and simulations (e.g., mock conventions, moot courts, model United Nations, etc.) are also available. Students can pursue a general B.A. in Political Science or can pursue more specialized concentrations in Pre-Law, International Studies, Public Administration/Government Service or Political Communications. Minors in Political Science and Public Administration/Government Service are also available.

Programs

Bachelor of Arts

Non-Degree