The political science program at Buena Vista University offers students a choice among three tracks - politics and policy, legal studies, and public administration. Each program of study equips students with an optimal combination of theoretical awareness, methodological skill, and pre-professional experience. As a result, students completing the political science major are well prepared for employment in the private, non-profit, and public sectors. Many graduates of this program pursue advanced degrees in political science, public administration, public policy, or law.
Students pursuing the politics and policy track entertain the key questions of political life. Beginning political science majors explore in-depth the normative concerns of philosophers of ancient, modern, and contemporary lineage. In addition, beginning political science majors engage in comparative and historical examinations of the American public policy process, focusing on the key institutions, actors, and ideologies that shape outcomes in the policy game. Broad training in international affairs prepares students for focused, advanced coursework and international study opportunities. Upper-division courses develop professional skills and ask students to cull deeply from their liberal arts background as they construct their own, independent contributions to the study of political life. A world class array of internship and international travel opportunities add to the benefits of the politics and policy track.
Students pursuing the legal studies track take courses designed to prepare them for advanced study in the law. This program of study emphasizes substantive knowledge of the law, logical and analytical reasoning, critical thinking, research skills, as well as strong communication skills. Several courses are taught using a modified version of the case method, which is the teaching method used in most U.S. law schools. Students become familiar with preparation of case briefs, legal reasoning and analysis, court cases, legal research and legal writing. Outside the classroom co-curricular opportunities, such as mock trial, are available to enhance the student’s legal education. Buena Vista University’s “3+3” accelerated law school entry program allows BVU undergraduates in their junior year of study to apply for admission to law school and earn both their Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor in six years. (See 3+3 program requirements)
The public administration track introduces students to professional-level management and policy analysis skills. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of problem-solving and project planning skills. After completing required support work and core public management courses, students choose an emphasis in either politics or decision making. The latter deepens students’ quantitative reasoning skills and capacities for ethical deliberation. Most students gain valuable experiences in a professional setting by completing an internship assignment in either their third or fourth year of study. Many students choose to participate in BVU’s celebrated Washington Center Internship Program.
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