as law or public administration. Political science requires the application of knowledge and critical thinking to assess, prevent and resolve political and social problems. Additionally, the curriculum addresses preparation of students for entry-level career position in the public and private sectors of employment.
The political science program contributes to the University's mission in various ways. The program prepares students to assume roles primarily in the government sector, as well as for graduate and professional school. The mission of the University is to serve the community and to improve the public good for citizens of the Commonwealth. Students who receive a degree from the University are prepared to enter the workforce and to make a direct contribution to better their communities.
According to StudyPortals (2018), there are 1,235 bachelor degree programs in political science offered in the United States (www.bachelorsportal.com/study-options/269779260/political-science-united-states.html). Political science is considered one of the social sciences core programs in addition to psychology, sociology and history, and provides support to the University's liberal arts core through POS 101: American Government. Since KSU is situated in the Commonwealth's state capital—the seat of government—it is fitting to offer a political science degree program.
Beginning in the spring 2018 semester, the political science program was relocated from the Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences to the School of Public Administration and Department of Government. Public administration, political science, social work and criminal justice share unity of purpose. These disciplines are focused on the political, social and economic dynamics of communities and applying that knowledge to benefit the good of all citizens (Rutgers, n.d., see online.rutgers.edu/resources/articles/the-difference-between-public-administration-and-political-science/?program=mpa). Public administration and political science programs have historical connection and are often found in the same departments at institutions.
Public administration and political science programs have historical connection and are often found in the same departments at institutions.
The political science program helps to fulfill the University's strategic plan. For Goal 1, it provides access for students to develop careers in the government sector through internships with state agencies and in preparation for graduate and professional schools. For Goal 2, the program increases general education skills as a service course in the liberal arts core. For Goal 3, the program has a direct impact on the financial strength of the University in spite of the small number of declared majors. In spite of the program's small size for declared majors, its percent enrollment change has been low (6 percent) compared to the majority of programs at the University—many having double-digit declines. For Goal 4, the program collaborates with other universities as students participate in the pre-law society or attend graduate or professional schools; the program regularly hosts political forums and other civic events for the community. For Goal 5, the program is periodically reviewed and, as an accredited program, participates in the Continuous Quality Improvement process.
Elimination of a program that is tailored to prepare students to become civic-minded, publicly engaged citizens seems counterproductive to the mission and strategic plan of the University.
The Political Science program informs and teaches students the role and function of government and citizens' participation in those processes. Students interested in careers in public service to aid their governments and communities often pursue a degree in political science. StudyPortals (2018) states, “Political science encompasses studies of historical and cultural factors that mutually influence how governments operate and how political processes develop. The political science discipline also reflects the connections between political and economic structures and social institutions” (para Political Science studies) [www.bachelorsportal.com/disciplines/316/political-science.html].
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