Political Science (POL)

310 David M. French Hall
(810) 762-3470
http://www.umflint.edu/polsci

Chair: Derwin Munroe
Principal Secretary: Suzanne Shivnen
Professors Peggy Kahn, Albert C. Price;
Assistant Professors Jason Kosnoski, Bill Laverty; Lecturer Derwin S. Munroe.
Professors Emeriti: Peter Gluck, Ellis Perlman.

Political Science includes both the study of political institutions and the study of power relations in society. It is the study of political life; that is, those activities which involve the making of binding collective decisions for societies or other social groups. A number of approaches may be involved: institutional, legal, historical, behavioral, philosophical, sociological, or politicaleconomic. The study of politics may focus on a particular society or on particular institutions and processes; it may be comparative in nature; it may emphasize international relations; or it may scrutinize particular political theories.

Department Mission and Program Assessment

The Political Science Department’s mission is to help students develop the skills of critical thinking and analysis, understand political institutions and processes in the US, other nations, and globally, and develop the interest and skills required for active and responsible citizenship. The Department participates in the University-wide effort to assess its academic programs. Information on assessment plans, including goals, methods and outcomes is available at http://assessment.umflint.edu.

Programs in Political Science

Four concentration programs are offered, all leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree: the General Program in Political Science ; the Honors Program in Political Science ; the Teacher’s Certificate Program in Political Science ; and the Joint Program in Social Sciences with an emphasis on Political Science (see Social Sciences) . A Minor in Political Science and a Teacher’s Certificate Minor in Political Science are also available. In addition, the department contributes to the Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration .

Students interested in internships should consult the department about POL 390, the Academic Internship in Public and Community Affairs. Students interested in pre-law should consult the “Law Studies Information” section of this Catalog. The Department expects Political Science majors to participate in the assessment of learning outcomes. A copy of the Assessment Plan in Political Science is available from the department office and web site.