Division of Humanities & Social Sciences

Department of Political Science

What is Political Science?
Political Science is the study of governments, public policies and political behavior. To study these subjects political science makes use of many other disciplines including psychology, philosophy, history, economics, and law. Interdisciplinary in scope, political science is unique in the questions it considers. For example, political scientists are concerned with understanding the process of governing, theories of ideal government, how political institutions structure community, how power and resources are allocated in society, and what influences a person’s vote choice. If you are interested in these subjects, or other aspects of social and political life, you should select political science as a major.

Why study Political Science at John Brown University?
The study of politics is at the core of the liberal arts. As a political science major at John Brown University you will develop writing, communication, analytical, and computer skills that are critical for future employment. This type of education will prepare you to think critically and independently, increase your concern for others and your awareness of current affairs, and develop in you a commitment to life-long learning. At JBU, we also take seriously the integration of faith and learning. We desire students to see themselves as active participants in the flow of history with a God-given mandate to serve others and to act ethically—in the local community and the world. Upon graduation, you will be able to apply the Christian worldview to politics and political issues.

Today’s students can expect to change jobs more than once and even to have more than one career during their working life. An undergraduate education in the liberal arts and sciences, and especially political science, is excellent preparation for the flexibility in employment that you will encounter in the modern marketplace. A degree from JBU will also prepare you to integrate your faith into your chosen vocation.