Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science- Political Theory and Methodology

Virginia Commonwealth University

The Department of Political Science offers a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science as well as elective courses in political science for program majors and non-majors. The political science curriculum has two central objectives. It offers the student a broad liberal arts education along with a comprehensive understanding of the nature and the functioning of the political process and government. It also provides a sound foundation for graduate study in political science, public administration and nonprofit management, or for careers that require knowledge of governance and the political process, such as law. Political theory and methodology concentration-specific outcomes Demonstrate the ability to verbally identify, explain and assess the arguments presented by major political theorists and paradigms, develop advanced skills to analyze strengths and weaknesses, and/or evaluate competing arguments by political theorists. Demonstrate the ability to explain the different ways political theorists analyze social problems and conditions and describe the historical context and significance of major political theorists and paradigms. Demonstrate the ability to apply political theory to analyze historical and/or contemporary socio-political challenges and issues, including (but not limited to) democracy, justice, rights, power, liberty and/or inequality.

College of Humanities and Sciences