Political Science
The Political Science major at Wilmington College offers students the opportunity to pursue careers in international studies, public administration, legislative affairs, and law. Students majoring in Political Science study the institutions and processes societies create to make collective decisions about human problems. Courses in this field address issues of justice and human rights, social movements, and economic development as they relate to the distribution of power in society.
In keeping with the College mission, the Political Science major encourages students to examine problems of conflict reconciliation and peacemaking in both national and international contexts. Although the Political Science major is compatible with virtually any other major at the College, students in the department often double major in criminal justice, psychology, Spanish, environmental studies, or minor in sustainability.
The department encourages its students to pursue internships, community service opportunities, and extra-curricular activities. It offers a number of study abroad programs, internships in Washington, D.C., research opportunities and lobbying activities.
Degrees
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Political Science Major with Food Policy and Agriculture Advocacy Concentration -
Political Science Major with a Political Studies Concentration -
Political Science Minor
Courses
PS130: AMERICAN POLITICS
PS175: MOCK TRIAL SEMINAR
Participation on the Wilmington College Mock Trial team gives students a chance to develop real-world lawyer and witness skills in the courtroom. With a focus on oral advocacy, critical thinking, and legal analysis, students will have the opportunity to travel to area competitions as they take a legal case from start to finish. May be taken a total of 4 times for credit.
PS231G: HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE JUDICIAL PROCESS
PS234G: GLOBAL POLITICS
PS237G: POLITICAL SIMULATION PRACTICUM
Students will travel to actively participate in a simulated international political forum such as the Ohio Valley Regional Model Arab League. They will serve as delegates representing governments or as chairpersons on councils, on political, economic, environmental, and social affairs, among others. Students will learn about the issues, positions, and diplomatic strategies of governments represented at the simulation through classroom learning and individual research efforts. In addition, students will learn how to negotiate and build teams. Students will gain an understanding of intergovernmental cooperation and parliamentary procedures and develop public speaking in a political setting. May be taken two times for credit.