Bachelor of Science in Political Science

A bachelor’s degree in Political Science equips graduates to enter into decision-making roles at the highest levels of federal and state government, global relief agencies, nongovernmental organizations, nonprofits and other policy-driven organizations. At Southeastern, political science majors experience this training paired with a Christ-centered focus on servant leadership. Hone your speaking skills by participating in SEU Debate — our award-winning campus debate team. This degree outlines and explores the historical, theoretical and practical aspects of politics and includes a six-hour internship experience. The internship is designed to give you approximately 300 hours of hands-on experience in the areas of law, politics or policy. You also have the opportunity to hone your speaking skills by participating in SEU Debate — our award-winning campus debate team. Upon graduating, you will be ready to either pursue further graduate studies or enter into a career in which you will have the opportunity to influence the quality of life for people all around the world.

Program Details

48 hours of major core
58 hours of general education
15 hours of electives

Total credit hours — 121

Sample Core Courses

• American History to 1877 (HIST 2013) — This course is a survey of American history to 1877. Topics include the colonial period, the Revolutionary era, the Constitution, Jeffersonianism, economic and territorial expansion, sectional tensions, the Civil War and Reconstruction.
• United States Constitution (POLS 2403) — A study of the legal culture in the United States, including the British common law system, the origins of the U.S. Constitution, the amendments and the landmark cases.
• The Legislative Process (POLS 3153) — This course is an examination of the role and function of the Congress in the American system of government, beginning with the Constitutional powers and extending through the history of the institution. Special attention is given to how the perception of the Congress’s role has changed over time and how that changed perception fits with in the Constitution’s prescriptions.
• Judicial Process and Politics (POLS 3163) — This course is an examination of the constitutional, political and policy role that the U.S. judicial system, especially the U.S. Supreme Court, plays in the broader American political system. Special attention is given to how the U.S. Supreme Court’s judicial and policy role has changed over time and how these changes fit within the Constitution’s prescription.