Political Science, B.A.

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This major is designed to offer the interested student an opportunity to examine many related aspects of political life including the emerging links between politics in nation states and the ongoing phenomenon of globalization. The courses will acquaint the student with various methods of analysis available for and applicable to the study of political institutions, political thought, and political behavior.

The Political Science major emphasizes global citizenship. The department’s curriculum prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century by teaching skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, oral and written communication, and ethical appreciation as well as the substance of politics. The curriculum offers students many opportunities for experiential learning, civic engagement, and collaborative research with faculty and other students. Given its historical affiliation with issues of citizenship, justice, and relations among different nations, Political Science enjoys a special kinship with the Baldwin Wallace University mission statement of preparing students to become “contributing, compassionate citizens of an increasingly global society.”

Careers in Political Science

Political Science majors pursue varied careers after graduation in government, nonprofit, legal, educational, business, and community organizations. The department emphasizes both broad skill-development and substantive knowledge to prepare students for flexible and successful careers. For more specific information about career opportunities, interested students should read the materials available in the Departmental offices, and consult with individual faculty members.

Minimum Credits Required: 36 (14 of which must be taken at Baldwin Wallace University)

Required courses:

Elective courses:

At least five additional courses, totaling 15 semester hours, are required. Four of these additional courses (12 or more semester hours), one in each of the four major subfields noted below, must be taken at the 300-400 course level. Take entry courses before enrolling in more advanced courses. Take the Analysis class only after taking at least two of the other required courses.

No prerequisites for most courses in political science, but some presuppose a prior exposure to specific subject matters. Recommended backgrounds for courses are listed in the course descriptions.

American Politics- any one of the following:

International Politics- any one of the following:

Comparative Politics- any one of the following:

Political Theory- any one of the following:

any one (1) additional elective.

Semester in Washington, DC:

Students can complete part of the Political Science Major by participating in one of our Washington, DC semester-long programs. Students take 15-16 credits, which includes an internship of the student’s choice from a wide variety of settings, including Capitol Hill, the White House, non-profits, law firms, national media outlets, and federal agencies such as the Justice Department and State Department. For more information, contact Professor Barbara Palmer in the Political Science Department at bpalmer@bw.edu or the Explorations Office at explore@bw.edu. Completion of POL 101D prior to participating is strongly recommended.