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Political Science Department Mission Statement

The mission of the Political Science Department is to provide a sound education in the discipline. We believe that education is best acquired within the framework of the liberal arts, through, specifically, careful analysis, systematic evaluation, and rigorous and disciplined thinking. Since we believe that students must be able to communicate clearly what they have learned, we are committed to the enhancement of writing and speaking skills as well.

To achieve these goals, the department encourages a thorough grounding in factual materials and theories of government and politics, in normative understandings, and in the methods of the discipline. Consistent with the liberal arts tradition, the department stresses skills transcending the boundaries of any academic discipline -- critical and analytical awareness, and the ability to read, write, and speak clearly. As political scientists, we recognize as well that this knowledge and these skills prepare our students to be productive and effective democratic citizens.