The Department welcomes our three new faculty members!
Dr. Burcu Bayram, Assistant Professor
Dr. Larry Carter, Senior Lecturer
Dr. Heidi Hardt, Assistant Professor
What is Political Science?
Political Science is the study of polical systems and political behavior. The Princeton Review recognizes Political Science as one of the top ten college majors:
"This major breaks down everything from political parties to voting behavior to public policy to revolutions all across the world. It's a pretty broad subject involving heavy doses of reading, writing, and statistical analysis. Many schools will want you to choose a concentration. Post-graduation options include: politics (running as a candidate or running a candidate's campaign), journalist, diplomat, lobbyist, and, of course, law school."
Departmental Information
The Political Science Department of the University of Texas at Arlington offers the B.A. and M.A. in Political Science and the M.P.A. jointly with the School of Urban and Public Affairs. Its 16 full-time faculty include specialists in a variety of government topics, including political behavior and process, comparative and international politics, public law, public administration and policy, political theory, and political methodology.
The Department also encourages students to acquire a broad perspective in public affairs and the government process. The curriculum is oriented toward achieving four goals for each undergraduate major:
- Identify and describe political structures, rules, behaviors and environments which shape political action.
- Explain and employ statistical and methodological techniques to analyze information.
- Identify, comprehend, and apply comparative, theoretical, or conceptual approaches to actors and their policies.
- Develop the ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate political phenomena.
Undergraduate students begin with a general introduction to national, state, and local politics followed by required courses in political methodology and political theory. Finally, students are exposed to at least four major areas of discipline. The department also offers options for students who desire a concentration in political behavior and processes, international relations, public law, and public administration and policy studies.
The program leading to a Master of Arts in Political Science emphasizes preparation for service in many areas of our national life, both public and private. Students interested in careers in teaching and research or in leadership roles in the public or private sectors may pursue programs adapted to their individual objectives. The Department endeavors to equip students with the research techniques and substantive background for course work undertaken beyond the master's level. Particular attention is given to newer methodologies and approaches employed by scholars in the field.