91ɬ��

The study of government and politics is the study of how people are governed and how they govern themselves. We examine the process by which scarce resources are allocated to an expanding population with ever-increasing demands. We look at American politics as an experience in “self-government” and realize that our system is quite different from the political systems developed by other countries.

Political Science courses offer research into and analysis of the institutions and politics of government. Topics include the interpretation and use of constitutions, the politics of the legislative process, elections and campaigns, the impact of money and lobbying on public policy decisions, the role of political parties, interactions between national, state and local government, the role of executive leadership including the United States President, the impact of bureaucracies on public and personal life, the judicial process and the criminal justice system, comparative government, international relations and a wide range of issues that affect the lives of citizens.

The Political Science program is designed to assure students can demonstrate an understanding of the role of governmental institutions, analyze key political concepts and ideas and evaluate key political issues.