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Political Science Department|College of Arts & Sciences

Student Assessment Goals

Bachelor's Degree in Political Science

Specific objectives of the Political Science undergraduate curriculum have been identified as the following learning outcomes. We continuously and actively assess our program to ensure that these learning outcomes are being met for each of our graduates.  Student learning objectives/outcomes:

  1. Acquire a knowledge and understanding of the values, beliefs, and institutions that constitute the political tradition of the American political system, of other political systems, and of patterns of interactions among nations and sources of international conflict and cooperation.
  2. Evaluate conflicting arguments, assemble and present empirical evidence, and make reasoned conclusions from the evidence available.
  3. Communicate effectively, both orally and in written form.

Master of Public Administration


  2. Integrate theory and practice.
  3. Improve decision-making skills.
  5. Communicate effectively, both orally and in written form.

Master of Arts in Political Science

The M.A. in Political Science provides students with an understanding of the theories and methods utilized in political science.  Beyond the undergraduate experience, MA students focus their coursework sharing a common theme such as a subfield of the discipline, a world region, policy in a particular issue area or a phase of political development.  Student learning objectives/outcomes:

  1. Knowledge - Students gain specific knowledge in their chosen area of study and develop the ability to do independent research, analysis, and critical thinking.
  2. Skills - Through their coursework and final Thesis/plan B project students learn written/oral communication skills and research methods appropriate to carry out their independent research project(s).
    a.  Students are required to take POLS 5680 Seminar in Research Design for Political Science.  In this course they learn how to conduct research in political science by exposure to a variety of social science methods used in political science research.  In a new Capstone Graduate Seminar MA students complete and present a research prospectus that forms the basis for their Thesis/Plan B project. 

    b. Thesis/plan B writing process - Students complete their independent research working with a primary mentor and faculty committee.  Upon completion of the written work students present and defend their results in an oral defense to the committee.

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