Learning goals for the Politics major

The general and professional objectives for students majoring in Politics are:

1. To challenge students to evaluate their conceptions of the good life for the individual and for society.
2. To prepare students for lives of enlightened and responsible citizenship.
3. To help students attain knowledge of the theory and practice of politics.
4. To help students develop the faculties of expression and critical thinking.
5. To prepare students for graduate work in politics, law, and public service.
6. To prepare students for examinations required for governmental service.
7. To prepare students to be political leaders.

Learning goals for the International Relations major

International Relations majors will:

1. Gain a broader understanding of the world by examining the history, culture, society, geography and political economy of countries and regions outside the United States.
2. Apply critical thinking skills to analyze global interconnections that exist among nations, peoples and communities in the interdependent modern world as well as the historical and contemporary role and effects of different global actors.
3. Demonstrate a critical, well-grounded understanding of multiple worldviews, experiences, power structures, ethical and cultural positions in relation to contemporary global problems, recognizing multiple historical and contemporary narratives in and about the world.
4. Develop familiarity with both theoretical and empirical research, including quantitative and qualitative methods, and employ appropriate methods to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of academic arguments and conduct research.
5. Consider obligations to others, using knowledge and skills to evaluate alternative policies and proposals aimed at solving complex problems in the human and natural worlds.
6. Effectively communicate complex information, scholarly analysis and persuasive arguments in written work and oral presentations.
7. Be encouraged to interact with people from a diverse range of cultural, religious, ethnic, national, and other identities in a way that is respectful and informed through advanced foreign language study, study abroad and other hands-on programs.