Political Science

Degrees Offered:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Overview

Major in political science at Barton, and you’ll understand what engaged learning is all about. Along with required internships and class debates, you’ll participate in simulations like a United Nations Security Council meeting or arguing a case before a mock U.S. Supreme Court. Hands-on experiences like these are designed to bridge the abstract, theoretical course material and the real-world applications of that knowledge.

Special Features

Special trips to the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., and the North Carolina Supreme Court in Raleigh will give you a firsthand look at the highest levels of our legal system.

The political science major offers a great deal of flexibility—you’re encouraged to explore your interests through a wide variety of courses or take on a double major.

The program also offers concentrations in pre-law and business.

Course Information

Courses in the major include:

  • American Government
  • International Relations
  • State and Local Government
  • Comparative Western Governments
  • Comparative Non-Western Governments
  • Western Political Theory
  • The Presidency

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The Amrut Nakhre Endowed Scholarship is awarded to the political science major with the highest grade point average among applicants.

Career Opportunities

Many of our graduates have gone on to law school or graduate school, while others find jobs in government in Raleigh or Washington, D.C. Because the U.S. government is the country’s largest employer, an understanding of how government functions is a highly sought-after qualification for groups and other associations working with the federal government.

Recent graduates have also gone on to pursue graduate and professional degrees at:

  • University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
  • Campbell University
  • Pace University

Clubs and Organizations

Barton sponsors several groups on campus for political science majors. These are:

  • Pi Sigma Alpha, Omega Tau chapter (a national political science honor society)
  • Pre-Law Club
  • Barton Democrats
  • Campus Conservatives

Contact Us

Dr. Jim Clark, Dean
School of Humanities
Hines Hall

jclark@barton.edu
800-345-4973 x6450
252-399-6450
252-399-6571 (fax)