SIUe
political science
About
According
to the Princeton
Review: "Political scientists study the structure and theory of
government and seek practical and theoretical solutions to political problems. Most
current studies and research concentrate on tangible topics such as welfare
reform, political campaigns and elections, foreign relations, and immigration.
The vast majority of political scientists are teachers at colleges and
universities where they conduct research and write books and articles on
political theory.
Political scientists armed with
the practical and theoretical knowledge of government may enter political life.
They generally do not run for public office, but very often their expertise is
enlisted by candidates to ensure a successful run or reelection. A great many
become political aides, helping those elected analyze and interpret legislative
issues and their constituencies. Some become political commentators on
television and radio or write columns for newspapers; others become public
opinion pollsters.
Political scientists approach
problems using one or a combination of four distinct methods: Objective,
analytical, comparative, and historical. The adequacy and integrity of a
political scientist’s theory rests on his ability to set aside his own
prejudices and remain objective in gathering, analyzing and presenting her
findings. Using commonly available research-interviews, newspaper clippings,
periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls and statistics-to test theories
and develop new ones, political scientists analyze, compare, and even trace
problems back to their sources. In gathering data, political scientists often
employ the technique of the “participant observer,” blending with crowds while
carefully observing a particular interaction. The questionnaire is another
research tool the political scientist uses. Questions are carefully ordered and
worded to be as objective as possible."
The Department of Political Science at SIUE takes pride in providing students
with the skills and experiences to understand human political behavior and
world events. We prepare students for employment and to be informed citizens. Upon graduation students
will be able to fully participate in political activities within interest
groups, political parties, community organizations, political advocacy, and/ or
serve as an elected official.
Department of Political Science Points of Pride
1. Graduates of the Department of Political Science have an
extensive understanding of government and politics at the local, state,
national and international levels.
2. Graduates of the Department of Political Science are engaged and are
dedicated leaders in social, economic and political dimensions of their
communities and nations.
3. Graduates of the Department of Political Science are trained in the use of
data, as well as research-based writing and analysis, culminating in the
Department’s Senior Assignment.
4. Its faculty members are recognized locally, statewide,nationally, and internationally for their teaching,
research, and service accomplishments.
5. Faculty members are accessible and provide personal attention to their
students.
6. Its faculty members are strongly committed to excellence in teaching,
research, and service.
7. The Department provides a rigorous curriculum with a focus on critical
thinking, writing, and analytical skills.
8. The Department offers supervised individual learning experience through
internships through out the region and independent
study and research with faculty. We currently have interns placed at the
following locations: U.S. Congressman (IL-12) Bill Enyart's
campaign, Anne Callis for Congress (IL-13) campaign;
US Congressman (IL-13) Rodney Davis campaign; and Bruce Rauner
for Governor of Illinois campaign. Internship opportunities include: US
Congressman (IL-15) John Shimkus and Illinois Department of Transportation.
9. The Department has a long tradition of outreach and community service.
10. The Department provides a vibrant academic environment reflected in
the diverse interests of faculty.
11. The current faculty members have published 6 books and 21 articles.
12. 92% of the teaching faculty have PhD.’s
13. 90% of the courses offered in the Department have an online component
14. Class sizes are capped at 49 students for introductory courses and 35
students for upper level courses.
15. 75% of the courses offered have a community or applied component
(guest speaker, field trip, etc)
16. The Department of Political Science offers six opportunities for
funding and honors
17. Political Science students can be active in 3 organizations sponsored by
the Department
18. The current Department faculty have won 10
awards for teaching, research, or service.