B.A. in Government – American Government & Politics

Explores some of the main fields within the discipline of government (e.g., comparative politics, political theory) as well as some of the main approaches to the study of government (e.g., interpretivism, behavioralism, institutionalism).  Various theories of integration for the study and understanding of government are also introduced.

Evaluates the conduct of foreign affairs, policy, and relationships between nation-states in the international political community. Students are introduced to the history of the international order as well as to the leading international relations’ theories of realism, liberal internationalism, neo-conservatism, human rights, and Marxism.

Offers a systematic exploration and comparison of the world’s political systems.  Investigates key trends, patterns, and relationships that may offer explanations regarding the similarities and differences of those systems.  As such, emphasis is placed on such topics as political economy, ethnic conflict, democratization, political corruption, and state and nation building.

Provides an analysis of the founding of the United States through an investigation of the important philosophical, constitutional, and political questions surrounding the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, the Constitutional Convention, and the creation and development of the U.S. Constitution.  Attention is given to federalism, and the Constitutional institutions of the Presidency, Congress, and the Supreme Court.

Investigates such issues as political participation, public opinion and voting behavior, interest groups and political parties, and civil rights and liberties.

Explores the political philosophy and political thought of important thinkers such as Sophocles, Thucydides, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine, and Thomas Aquinas through the reading and analysis of their works. Emphasis is given to understanding the foundations of the ancient and medieval era and the political writings composed therein.  Prerequisite: GOVT 196.

Investigates the political philosophy and political thought of such important thinkers as Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, J.S. Mill, Rousseau, Kant, and Nietzsche through the reading and analysis of their works.  Emphasis is given to understanding the foundations of modernity and the political writings composed therein.  Prerequisite: GOVT 196.

Considers the concepts of ideology (worldview or weltanschauung) and philosophy as applied to government and politics.  Attention is given to such dominant political ideologies as communism, socialism, fascism, liberalism, and conservatism.  Prerequisite: GOVT 196.

This course equips students with methodological skills commensurate with their disciplines, such as clarifying concepts, developing theses, formulating hypotheses, measuring variables, and making controlled comparisons. Prerequisites: MATH 201 and senior standing. Cross-listed with CRJU 457.

Research, writing and defense of an undergraduate thesis.  Integration of faith and disciplinary interest.  Prerequisite: GOVT 387.