Political Science

The program is intended to acquaint students with the ways that political structures have developed and the influence of the social systems of power on governmental structures. Students will evaluate how these systems of power have impacted groups based on their status in the system with a particular focus on the impact of gender, race, class, sexuality, and citizenship status. Students learn about the basic structures of government both in the US and in the international system. The global impact of politics and the economy is a key part of their classroom experience, where students consider the role that a globalized economy has on equity and class hierarchies.

Students develop critical thinking skills and engage in research and data analysis. In the classroom they discuss policy problems and collaborate on the development of policy solutions on both national and international problems.  Students can utilize their in-class preparation to participate in the National Model United Nations Conference in New York City where they collaborate with delegations from across the world to develop solutions to international problems with dialogue, collaboration, and negotiation. Students continue their education by going to graduate schools in fields such as public administration, political science, public policy, and international diplomacy.

• In their senior year students take part in a problem-based learning capstone course working in interdisciplinary groups across the social science programs to develop solutions to current complex social problems.
• Students utilize a system level approach to evaluate the root causes of the problems and identify solutions. These solutions are connected to the goal of developing ways to create inclusive healthy communities.

With this degree, students are prepared for various graduate programs, law school, or the professional sphere. Salem graduates will be well suited to use their skills in the governmental sector, nonprofit, or for-profit sector.