Political scientists examine some of the most fundamental concepts of human existence:  power, conflict, economic relationships, culture, law and policy, ethics, justice, equality, legitimacy, and representation. They analyze the political impacts of social issues such as war, poverty, crime, education, the environment, race, gender, and globalization.

In studying Political Science at Southwestern, you will find opportunities to examine these issues and their interconnections. As a budding political scientist, you have the chance to learn how to interpret the past, explain the present, and even dare to predict the future.

While most people associate Political Science with the study of governments and other political actors, as a field of study it’s varied and diverse. It relies on different levels of analysis, and focuses on the wide array of topics touched on above. The field is also segmented into four main areas: American Politics, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. Our curriculum reflects this diversity. You’ll find courses ranging from the history of political philosophy to the role of congressional committees, the presidency, and the judiciary in the US, from the intricacies of government in countries at various stages of development to the interaction of peoples and states in the international arena.

Our faculty is committed to helping students develop as active participants in the world.  They seek to develop graduates who are conscious of human society’s major problems are interested in bringing the best constructive critical thinking to bear upon them.

A major or minor in Political Science prepares students to go on to graduate or professional programs, into politics, government, non-governmental organizations, journalism, public relations, banking, teaching or myriad other areas.