Political Science: Bachelor of Arts Degree

Program Description

The Political Science Program at UDC prepares students to serve our communities and change the world. Our graduates pursue careers in government, global affairs, education, law, community activism, public communication, and research. Our Political Science curriculum is rich in experiential opportunities including the American Democracy Project, Washington Model Organization of American States, Congressional internships, institutional and community service internships, and our Citizen Diplomat Program. Majors in the UDC Political Science Program acquire marketable skills in effective writing and communication, analyzing social problems and offering solutions. UDC Political Science graduates have professionally distinguished themselves at a global level, including directly assisting presidents of national governments and managing nation-wide university systems. Political Science majors are empowered to become engaged and active citizens attaining rewarding careers in public affairs in support of our communities at the local, national, and global levels.

Vision

To empower students through a rigorous academic curriculum that broadens their knowledge of political institutions and processes; instills social consciousness; and encourages public service and civic engagement in the District of Columbia, the nation, and the global community.

Mission

To prepare students for active citizenship by increasing their knowledge of political institutions and governance in local, national, and global communities.

Goals

• Prepare students for active citizenship in the changing world of the 21st century by increasing their knowledge of political institutions and governance in local, national and global communities.
• Provide learning experiences through which students develop proficiency in analytical and research skills.
• Provide experiential opportunities designed to model professional and career pathways, as well as prepare students for emerging job market demands.
• Develop collaborative partnerships with discipline-related professional organizations, local and federal government agencies, international organizations, trade and advocacy associations, research institutes, and political science programs at colleges and universities in the Washington metropolitan area.
• Prepare students for post-baccalaureate study in graduate and law school, and entry into the public and private sectors.

Student Learning Objectives

Upon completion of requirements in the Political Science program, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of discipline relevant concepts, institutional structures, theories, and methods.
• Analyze political and social problems as they relate to the processes and structures of political and social systems.
• Contrast and analyze diverse perceptions of politics in the United States and the international stage.
• Analyze racial, ethnic, socio-economic, and other politically based national and international and issues in contemporary society.
• Demonstrate discipline-related writing, analytical, communication, and technological proficiency.
• Apply quantitative and qualitative research skills.
• Demonstrate skill-sets associated with career pathways in Political Science.

Related:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Learn more about applying for admission to the political science program
• Find out about scholarship opportunities for political science students

Curriculum and Requirements

Program of Study

Students must complete 120 credit hours, including 33 credits required by the major, to earn the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.  The core curriculum and plan of study emphasize major areas of the Political Science discipline including:

• American Politics
• International and Global Politics*
• Comparative Politics
• Political Science Methodology and Research**
• Experiential Opportunities***

*The concentration in Global Studies, launched Fall 2020, is an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates academic courses and experiential activities to help create global citizens. The concentration requires 15 academic credits.

**A 3-course curriculum core (Political Research Skills, Methods of Political Science & Senior Seminar), which trains students to become applied researchers, is a hallmark of the program.

***The Congressional Internship Program and Model International Organizations Simulation programs give students hands-on experience in Political Science.

Student Organizations

Chi Rho Chapter, Pi Sigma Alpha, National Political Science Honor Society
Political Science Students Organization (PSSO)*
Global Affairs and Diplomacy Association (GADA)*

* PSSO & GADA are UDC Student Government accredited organizations, active in promoting scholarly, social, and professional development activities for majors and interested students.

Student Spotlight

2020 UDC National Conference of Black Political Scientists delegation in Atlanta, GA. For the theme of “War on Blackness,” Benjamin Hoffschneider (left) examined Black women’s maternal mortality; Randell Thomas (center) explored the #dontmuteDC movement to amplify DC culture; and Ruby Branscomb (right) examined the housing crisis in DC’s communities of color.