Undergraduate Catalog 2022-2023

Political Science at SIUE

The Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences offers courses broadly concerned with the study of government and politics, organized into seven fields:

• American government and politics: Students examine the institutions and behaviors of the U.S. political system, including federal, state, and local structures; campaigns; elections; political organizations and issues of public policy.
• Comparative politics: Students learn about and compare the political cultures, economies, parties and institutions within other countries.
• International relations: Students study the relations among nations and relations with international bodies, such as the United Nations.
• Political theory: Students examine the attempts of important thinkers to define the functions of the state and the rights and obligations of citizens, and study efforts to develop comprehensive theories of politics through analysis and the evaluation of political behavior.
• Public administration: Students explore bureaucracies, leadership and the ways in which public business is conducted.
• Public law: Students examine the nature of the judicial process and the role of the courts in interpreting and applying the Constitution of the United States.
• Political analysis: Students explore research design, concepts and methodology.

What can I do with a degree in political science?

Students who major in political science have entered a wide variety of careers in business, government service (at the federal, state and local levels), law, journalism, and public or private interest groups. Our graduates understand regulatory environments, and do well in industries such as banking and insurance, as well as industries that have compliance concerns, such as defense contractors and hospitals. A program in teacher licensure (6-12) is also available.

In addition to providing preparation for specific careers, a major in political science provides excellent career-building skills, such as data analysis, research skills, statistical techniques and expository writing. Of the 40 largest employers in the bi-state region, six are governments and government contractors, five are educational institutions, and four are financial institutions. A degree in political science will prepare you to work for more than one-third of the region's major employers.