Our program encompasses four key areas:
1. Public Policy
First-year students take an introductory course in public policy and administration during the spring semester. Focused on public policy, the political science faculty at Norwich take this approach because we want to provide majors with a practical education. Policy is the outcome of a political process and it is through policy that most people come into contact with politics. We believe it is important that citizens and leaders alike understand how policy is made and how it affects people in their daily lives.
2. Research Methods
Every political science major must take a course in research methods. In this course you’ll learn how to formulate a research question, how to collect data, including knowing how to separate useful information from the rest, and how to communicate conclusions in both written and oral presentations.
3. A Multi- and Interdisciplinary Program
Political Science majors are required to take courses in history, English, foreign languages, economics, mathematics, and the natural sciences. We produce students who are conversant in a variety of fields and disciplines.
4. Internships
We strongly encourage political science majors to take an internship. In fact, we offer course credit to students who accept this challenge. There is no better way to learn about politics than to take what you learn in the classroom and compare it to “real life.” Internships are also a great way to make connections for life after Norwich.
