Political Science
Aristotle
described Political Science as the “master art” because it draws from
so many other disciplines, is practical, and fundamentally concerned
with noble action
and the happiness of its citizens. Indeed, politics permeates all levels of society.
As
such, the study of politics, explores relationships between government
and the governed, political processes and policy outcomes, the powerful
and powerless, and identity
and interests among many others.
At Linfield, The Political Science department affords students the opportunities to cultivate their personal interests in depth, while grounding them in a broader theoretical and empirical knowledge of the world around them. Recognized for its outstanding faculty and accomplishments of its graduates, the Political Science major aims to develop a practical skills set that enable its graduates to be different makers in a range of different professional settings.
As a Political Science major, students are able to:
- Work closely with outstanding, award-winning faculty
- Customize their major by taking courses in American Politics, International Politics (see also International Relations major –insert link), Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and Public Law
- Pursue opportunities to do paid research on a faculty-student collaborative research grant
- Engage in the practice of politics through internships, studying in Washington DC for a semester, and participating in debates, mock trials, and study abroad programs
- Participate in a range of department sponsored activities such as guest speakers and the Pizza and Politics forum
- Present their research and learn professional development skills (such as resume building) in the Senior Seminar
Political Science graduates are able to:
- Question the status quo in a constructive fashion
- Analyze complex issues systematically
- Engage the world around them by applying their advanced writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills to real-world problems
- Offer distinct skills, grounded in the liberal arts, in their pursuit of a range of career opportunities in: government and public policy, law, business, international organizations, advocacy and non-profit sector, journalism, education, academia, and beyond.
Above all, our goal is for students to leave Linfield equipped to excel in an increasingly competitive and interconnected workplace, civically engaged, and prepared to have a positive impact on the world around them. However, our hope and expectation is that the experience in Political Science will be catered to the individual and mean something different to everybody.