BA Political Science with Secondary Teaching Licensure Endorsement

Political science focuses on fundamental questions that go to the heart of the human experience. Political science students study critical issues such as war and peace, international affairs, environmental challenges, poverty and racism, and the struggles of oppressed peoples. Such study prepares students for various careers by building analytical and writing skills while encouraging independent thought, respect, and interest in current affairs. Graduates commonly work in fields such as law and government, nonprofit organizations, teaching, journalism, international organizations, business, and election campaigns.

The Political Science department prepares students for informed and creative activism by providing them an opportunity to develop analytical skills. The program incorporates historical, quantitative, experimental, ethnographic, psychological, and creative methodologies while aiming to sensitize students to the essential questions of politics and life. Many of our graduates are community organizers, attorneys or public servants in local, state or federal government. We have become nationally known for our programs in indigenous politics, international human rights, and inner-city community development. Students will find ample opportunity to explore the innovative community engagement programs while receiving real-world experience in a variety of professional and community settings.

The secondary licensure program is a partnership program between the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) and the School of Education & Human Development (SEHD). Secondary Education Licensure students choose a major within CLAS and complete all CORE, CLAS, major, and initial teacher education admission requirements before completing a final professional year of licensure coursework through the SEHD.

These degree requirements are subject to periodic revision by the academic department, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences reserves the right to make exceptions and substitutions as judged necessary in individual cases. Therefore, the College strongly urges students to consult regularly with their major advisor and CLAS advisor to confirm the best plans of study before finalizing them.