Political Science

Political science is the systematic study of the individual’s relationship with government. It investigates the nature and purpose of government, the principles on which it rests, the justification of political authority, the legal and moral aspects of that authority and the nature and development of the great human freedoms. Courses offered deal with these concerns in the American as well as foreign and international political systems.

The approach combines the practical with the theoretical so that contemporary political issues can be better understood. Political science course work is useful for those who are oriented toward elective, appointive and administrative positions at all levels of government as well as for those interested in politics as an avocation. It can also help prepare students for graduate studies in law and the social sciences as well as for business, journalism, and broadcasting careers.

Mission:

The mission of the Rockhurst University Political Science program is to transform our students into “men and women who reflect upon the reality of the world…with all its ambiguities, opportunities, and challenges, to discern what is really happening in [their] life and in the lives of others” (adapted from Peter-Hans Kolvenbach, S.J. 29th Superior General of the Society of Jesus, 1997) through a student-centered and directed educational exploration of political phenomena and knowledge in the field of political science.

Learning Goals:

By the end of the program, Rockhurst Political Science graduates will be able to:

1: Formulate and consider public policies and reflect on the impact of those policies on themselves and their community (CBT: LEADERSHIP)

2: Understand ethical dilemmas and social justice in a manner faithful to the Jesuit spiritual heritage. (CBT: ETHICS)

3. Evaluate political and policy research (CBT: KNOWLEDGE)

4: Integrate cultural awareness and an understanding of their own and other’s identity into their analysis (CBT: GLOBAL)

5: Apply political science research and theories to analyze their world. (CBT: INFORMATION)

6. Convey information in a variety of public and political communication styles. (CBT: COMMUNICATION)

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Students will apply political science theories to central questions in the discipline.

2. Students will discuss relevant variables and supported limitations on the process of inquiry, evidence, and/or implications of the results for larger contexts.

3. Students will effectively utilize quantitative information in their analysis of disciplinary questions.

4 Students will integrate information from a variety of authoritative sources appropriate for political or policy analysis.

5. Students will interpret or evaluate sources to develop a coherent analysis.

6. Students will compose professional communications in formats suitable for public and/or political environments.

7. Students will explain the ethical, social, and/or environmental consequences of policy decisions.

8. Students will demonstrate intercultural awareness in their analysis of political behavior, institutions, or phenomena.