Academic Programs
and Majors

Political Science Major

Department Faculty

Future Preparation

Political Science at Houghton

Houghton offers both a major and minor in political science leading to the B.A. degree, backed by a faculty that has strong credentials both in academic preparation at the Ph.D. level and practical experience in government service. The core curriculum--required of all students--consists of courses in American politics and international politics, political theory, and research methodology, plus a capstone course, the senior politics seminar, in which students write and defend a major research paper. Elective courses feature advanced work in American and international/comparative politics, including coursework in virtually every region of the world. In sum, a major consists of 27 credit hours and a minor of 12 hours (above the introductory level).

In political science, students learn not only about the structure of government but also about the political processes that shape how governments work. The study of politics is as old as Plato, and much of Houghton’s political science program is designed to draw on centuries of accumulated learning, while at the same time introducing modern, quantitative techniques of data collection and analysis. Overall, the program is aimed at developing and sharpening skills in thinking, analyzing, and problem-solving, abilities that can be put to use in a variety of settings from graduate and professional schools to government service at all levels to the practice of politics in or related to elective office. 

Political science at Houghton is deeply informed by Christian perspective. Beginning with Saint Augustine in the 5th century, the study of politics was profoundly shaped by Christian thought. At Houghton, this tradition continues. Because Christians believe that human beings are at once exalted by God and debased by sin, Christianity offers an exceptionally well-balanced orientation to politics. 

Houghton’s political science students typically experience small classes (10-20 students) and considerable one-on-one interaction with professors. Students read widely, join in intense classroom discussions, and do plenty of writing. Internship and study-abroad experiences are available. Graduates frequently go on to law school, to professional degrees in public policy or public administration, or to graduate school in political science or a related field. Or they go directly into positions in government (sometimes administrative, sometimes legislative positions) or in non-governmental organizations that interface with governmental agencies. 

Typical Political Science (POLS) Schedule:

[All courses are three credit hours]

First-Year:

• POLS 101, Introduction to Politics 
• POLS 222, The American Political System

Sophomore: 

• POLS 230, International Politics 
• POLS Electives (3-6 credits)

Junior: 

• POLS 309, Statistics 
• POLS 312, Social Science Research Methods 
• POLS 364, Survey of Political Thought 
• POLS Electives (3-6 credits)

Senior:

• POLS Elective (3 credits)
• POLS 480, Senior Politics Seminar

From the local village to the global village, the study of political science can prepare students for a lifetime of leadership and service. Since its founding by Plato more than two millennia ago, political science has sought to preserve and promote the common good. Still today, political scientists seek to learn how people can govern themselves for their common benefit, under conditions that, unfortunately, often tend toward conflict and corruption. Political science at Houghton introduces students to an intellectually challenging and ultimately very practical body of knowledge, as well as a venerable tradition of inquiry for learning still more.