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Political Science - International Relations Concentration

Program Codes: BAPOLIR
Bachelor of Arts

Introduction
The political science major is designed to prepare students for graduate school, law school, and careers such as journalism, teaching, foreign service, public service, public policy, and public administration. In addition to the standard political science major,  the  department  offers  two  concentrations:  Pre-Law and International Relations. Students with an interest in other subfields of the discipline including public administration and/or policy, environmental politics, and campaigns and elections may choose to focus their studies in these areas. The department also offers three minors: political science, international relations and diplomacy, and public policy.

The department works closely with students, each of whom chooses their advisor. They meet each semester with their advisor to schedule classes for  the following semester, discuss internships, and, in the spring semester, complete a “spring review.” All majors are required (unless waived by the department) to complete an internship, study abroad program, or another department-approved  experience.  The  department  has  an  active  chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha (the national political science honor society), a pre-law society, and other extracurricular activities. The department also operates a computer-assisted telephone interviewing facility where students and faculty work together to  conduct public opinion polls on  a  wide range of topics.

Mission Statement
We seek to foster life skills such as reading, writing, persuading, negotiating, and presenting; the ability to think spatially; understanding of numerical data; historical awareness; and international, cross- and multi-cultural appreciation. These life skills also include an understanding of how political scientists think, gather evidence, process data, and reach tentative conclusions. Graduates will develop an ability to think critically about political phenomena and thought, and be prepared for the worlds of work (formal employment in the labor market) and citizenship (civic and community life) and have a solid academic foundation for graduate studies or law school. Thus, specific career plans and interests aside, graduates will be well-prepared to comprehend and interact with the political world.

As liberal arts college graduates with a particular interest in politics, they should receive enough in-depth training and a wide enough breadth of perspectives to follow their own inclinations to interact politically with that world whether as “simply” citizens, professional business men and women, journalists, lawyers, interest group participants, active electoral involvement, government or private sector analysts, or academic political scientists. We attempt to reveal the importance and personal impact of political events and issues; and, more significantly, we seek to equip them to be able to understand, evaluate, and potentially shape the political events, actions, and problems/solutions of the future.

These are crucial components of a liberal arts education and, along with knowledge of politics and government, key components of the sort of civic education on which democracy depends.

Program Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the political science program, including any of its concentrations, graduates will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of foundational and contemporary political science theories; apply theoretical approaches to data analysis and practical experiences.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of relevant political science methodologies; apply relevant models of inquiry to data gathering and
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the institutions and processes associated with governance and apply this knowledge to historical and contemporary
  • Demonstrate the ability to think critically, which includes identifying and explaining issues, recognizing concepts and assumptions, acknowledging multiple perspectives, and evaluating evidence to reach
  • Demonstrate written and oral communication skills expected of a professional in the field.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of, and preparation for graduate education and careers associated with the field of political science.

 

International Relations Concentration

The International Relations (IR) Concentration in political science addresses a significant need in an era of globalization. Mercyhurst students can specialize in international relations, focus on courses most relevant to this field, and graduate with a diploma that identifies IR as their chosen field of study. The innovative curriculum, which emphasizes international politics and regional political systems, is enhanced by versatile study abroad opportunities.

Students who select the IR Concentration are preparing for a variety of careers, including diplomacy, academia, journalism, public service, or work with the vast array of non-governmental organizations engaged in advocacy and service around the world. A large percentage of Mercyhurst political science graduates pursue graduate school, and those seeking an IR program will be well prepared upon completion of the IR track at Mercyhurst. Alumni in school and those currently working for the government at home and abroad, as well as for non-profits and businesses, are testimony to the quality of preparation received. The marketable skills at the center of this concentration include proficiency in research and analysis, the ability to read critically, an appreciation of diverse and complex views, and an enhanced understanding of world events and the conditions that influence them. For successful completion of the IR Concentration, students must take 15 three-credit courses (6 required and 7 electives). Students will work with their advisor to plan their specific program. A 2.5 G.P.A. must be maintained in the major.

International Relations and Diplomacy Minor

This minor is housed in the Political Science Department, but allows for utilization of some cognate courses from other departments, depending on the student’s interests, major(s), and university REACH course selections. A 2.5 G.P.A. must be maintained in the minor.

I. Required Foundational Course (3 credits)

POLI 336 International Organization and Diplomacy 3 credits

II. Choose five (5) of the following courses (15 credits):

HIST 224 The Vietnam War 3 credits

POLI 105 Global Issues 3 credits

POLI 241 Comparative Politics: Asia 3 credits

POLI 242 Comparative Politics: Europe 3 credits

POLI 245 Comparative Politics: Middle East 3 credits

POLI 299 Geopolitics (recommended to be taken in junior year) 3 credits

POLI 302 Politics of Russia 3 credits

POLI 335 American Foreign Policy 3 credits

POLI 380 Politics of the Global Economy 3 credits

RIAP 313 Intelligence and National Security 3 credits

III. Any two (2) other Political Science courses (6 credits)

(or pre-approved cognate courses from another department) including all courses listed above not used previously

Other Requirements

Foreign language competency at 2nd level (usually two classes)

The departmental minor advisor, in consultation with the student, may allow preapproved courses from other departments to fulfill Category III. For example, a REACH course such a Macroeconomics and/or a variety of political science courses (e.g., American Government, Political Theory, Public Administration, Political Psychology, Senior Project Course, and Internships) can be used to fulfill Category III. Students who have not lived outside the United States are strongly encouraged to avail themselves of our study abroad opportunities – but this is not a requirement.

Political Science Major - International Relations Concentration

REACH
Mercyhurst - REACH and outREACH
39

I. Required Political Science Courses (18 credits)

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
Course Code:
POLI 100
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Active Term:
All Terms
/ All Years
Course Description:

Introductory course in political science stressing how policy-making is done at the national level. Beginning with the Constitution, an introduction is given to the three main branches of the U.S. government. Attention is also given to elections, economics, political parties, interest groups and the federal system.

Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 100
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
3
GLOBAL ISSUES
Course Code:
POLI 105
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Active Term:
All Terms
/ All Years
Course Description:
An overview of significant global issues, such as human rights, arms proliferation, regional conflicts, and sustainable development, with attention to the scope, causes, and consequences of these issues. Special emphasis will be placed on theories of global civil society and the role of NGOs and transnational advocacy groups in mobilizing responses to these issues. The contributions of the constructivist perspective in international relations, with theoretical insights drawn from both political science and sociology, will be explored and debated in readings and assignments.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 105
GLOBAL ISSUES
3
GEOPOLITICS
Course Code:
POLI 299
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Active Term:
Randomly
/ All Years
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 299
GEOPOLITICS
3
AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY
Course Code:
POLI 335
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Randomly
Course Description:

Stresses evaluation of U.S. foreign policy and world role. Analyzes how and by whom policy is made, its goals, and its domestic/foreign consequences. Primary emphasis is on U.S. policy since WWII.

Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 335
AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY
3
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS&DIPLOMACY
Course Code:
POLI 336
Active Term:
Randomly
/ All Years
Course Description:
The existence and prominence of international organizations (IOs), such as the United Nations, in today's world is a remarkable achievement of modern diplomacy. In this course we will explore the interworking of several prominent international organizations that transformed the global political landscape since the end of WWII. Additionally the students will engage in diplomatic role-playing activities simulating the functions of IOs. Students will engage in individual and team research and participate in intercollegiate competitions.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 15
x
POLI 336
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS&DIPLOMACY
3
POLITICAL SCIENCE PROJECT
Course Code:
POLI 437
Active Term:
Fall Term
/ All Years
Course Description:
A capstone course designed for senior majors and minors to engage in critical reflection on their political and intellectual identity. A series of readings, class exercises, and discussions will culminate in a final "intellectual memoir" wherein each student examines his or her political socialization process, major intellectual commitments and future plans. This course is offered every fall semester and must be taken in the fall of the senior year.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Project
Total hours: 22.5
x
POLI 437
POLITICAL SCIENCE PROJECT
3

II. Political Science Electives - Choose five (5) of the following courses (15 credits):

THE VIETNAM WAR
Course Code:
POLI 224
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Even Years
Course Description:
This look at the Vietnam War begins by examining the history of Vietnam but focuses on the American experience. Three central questions are addressed: How and why did the U.S. get involved? What was the nature of that involvement and what went wrong? And what were/are the lessons/results of the war?
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 224
THE VIETNAM WAR
3
COMPARATIVE POLITICS: ASIA
Course Code:
POLI 241
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Even Years
Course Description:

A comparative study of a variety of political systems emphasizing Asia. Survey of topics/problems related to economic development, democratization, government structure, and foreign relations with the United States. Specific countries examined include China, Japan, India, Indonesia and South Korea.

Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 15
x
POLI 241
COMPARATIVE POLITICS: ASIA
3
COMPARATIVE POLITICS: EUROPE
Course Code:
POLI 242
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Odd Years
Course Description:

A comparative study of a variety of political systems emphasizing Europe. Survey of topics includes government structure, political parties and coalitions, social movements, European integration, economic transition, and foreign relations with the United States. Special emphasis on Britain, France, Germany, Poland and the European Union.

Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 242
COMPARATIVE POLITICS: EUROPE
3
COMPARATIVE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST
Course Code:
POLI 245
Course Group(s):
CONTEXTS AND SYSTEMS
Course Description:

The Middle East and North Africa is a region rich in tradition, religious and cultural diversity, historic rivalries, strategic resources, and significant geopolitical linkages. This course will examine the political systems of representative countres, explore enduring issues, and examine the region's role in the context of world politics.

Credit:
3
x
POLI 245
COMPARATIVE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST
3
POLITICS OF RUSSIA
Course Code:
POLI 302
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Even Years
Course Description:
An energy exporter with one of the largest nuclear stockpiles in the world today, Russia continues to be a formidable power. Challenges facing Russia affect not only order and stability inside Russia, but potentially also international security and the global economy. This course is designed to facilitate a greater understanding of Russian domestic and foreign policy. We will examine the political institutions/legacies, political process, political culture, leadership, public opinion, and contemporary challenges facing Russia.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 302
POLITICS OF RUSSIA
3
FOREIGN POLICY DECISIONS
Course Code:
POLI 337
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Randomly
Course Description:
Individuals make foreign policy, but they are constrained by their own psychological limits as well as a complex set of institutional rules. Drawing from the literature of political psychology, social cognition and organizational behavior we explore the most significant actors shaping American foreign policy: presidential advisors, the media, the bureaucracy, Congress, interest groups and social movements. Social cognition and the new institutionalism provide an overarching explanation about the way in which decision-makers reason about problems and situations and embed those understandings in enduring institutions. We will read accounts of some significant decisions in postwar American foreign policy as well as participate in a decision-making simulation designed to integrate and illustrate key concepts.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 337
FOREIGN POLICY DECISIONS
3
POLITICS OF THE GLOBAL ECONOMY
Course Code:
POLI 380
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Even Years
Course Description:
This course blends perspectives of economics and politics to analyze economic relations among state and non-state actors as they pursue their interests. This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to some of the mainstream approaches to the study of international political economy and some of the pressing debates in the field including cross border flows of trade, capital, labor, and ideas. These topics will be discussed in the context of competing theoretical perspectives, the role of international financial institutions (WTO, World Bank and IMF) and the views from the Global North (rich nations) and Global South (poor countries).
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 380
POLITICS OF THE GLOBAL ECONOMY
3
POLITICAL THEORY
Course Code:
POLI 400
Active Term:
Randomly
/ Even Years
Course Description:
A study of major figures in the history of political theory and their particular political theories. The primary purpose of the course is to analyze the relationship between political theory and political action. The course covers the three general historical periods: ancient, Christian, and modern. Some of the political thinkers and theories covered include: Plato, Aristotle, Buddha, St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx, Burke, and contemporary figures like Voegelin and Rawls.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
POLI 400
POLITICAL THEORY
3
NATIONAL SECURITY & INTELLIGENCE
Course Code:
RIAP 213
Active Term:
All Terms
/ All Years
Course Description:
An introduction to national security decision-making in the U.S. with a special emphasis on the role of intelligence in formulating policy. Historical overview of national security politics and strategy since WWII. Description of major institutions and processes involved in national security policy- making. Survey of significant national security problems and their changing nature in the 21st century. 3 credits.
Credit:
3
Instruction methods:
Lecture
Total hours: 45
x
RIAP 213
NATIONAL SECURITY & INTELLIGENCE
3

III. Choose Two (2) Additional Elective in Consultation with Advisor

IV. Other Requirements - Any foreign language through the second level

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