Department of Political Science
Faculty
Sean Evans (2000). Professor of Political Science and Department Chair. B.A., Lipscomb University; M.A., University of Alabama; Ph.D., University of Colorado.
Hunter Baker (2010). Dean for the College of Arts & Sciences and Professor of Political Science. B.S., Florida State University; M.P.A., University of Georgia; J.D., University of Houston Law Center; Ph.D., Baylor University.
Mission Statement
The Department of Political Science seeks to create active, informed citizens and leaders who use their analytical, research, and communication skills to improve their community.
Curriculum
The departmental curriculum is designed to help students meet civic, intellectual, and career objectives. Students begin by orienting themselves to the discipline by taking a course in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory to provide the necessary information and skills to be an active, informed citizen. Students can then choose a concentration to pursue their specific interest or pursue a general study of political science.
All political science courses are theoretical, interdisciplinary, and practical. Each course help students understand the ideas that shape the priorities and values of individuals, groups, and nations. The classes also present the theories and realities of how political attitudes, behavior, and processes affect domestic and foreign policy making. Moreover, the department’s interdisciplinary approach helps students connect philosophical, economic, cultural, ethical, legal, and Christian perspectives to politics. Finally, the department encourages practical and theoretical learning through simulations, internships, study abroad, and political opportunities that broaden perspectives and develop student leadership abilities.
Departmental courses also develop the skills and virtues necessary for career success. In each class, students will learn to (1) speak and write clearly, effectively, and winsomely, (2) understand, analyze, evaluate, and appropriately apply information to solve problems effectively and creatively, and (3) develop virtues such as humility, integrity, diligence, courage, perseverance, and wisdom that contribute to good character and professional success. These efforts prepare students for graduate school and professional success in law, business, public service, education, non-profit management and advocacy, ministry, and more.
Pre-Law Advising Program
Dr. Sean Evans serves as Union University’s pre-law advisor. Students planning to attend law school should consult with him for information and assistance.
Admission and Progression in Major in Political Science with Discipline-Specific Honors
The department requires a one semester residency requirement for the first-time college student before applying to the program.
For each honors contract course, the student must:
- Come to agreement with the instructor of the course regarding the nature of the contract prior to the beginning of the course. Students are advised to contact the instructor prior to the end of the previous fall or spring Semester.
- Obtain the Department Chair’s approval of the honors contract.
- Complete the required paperwork with the Office of the Director of the Honors Community prior to the first day of classes for the semester.
The professor supervising each honors contract will evaluate the work and personally consult with the student about continuance in the program. This evaluation will also be presented to the department faculty at its next regularly scheduled department meeting. If a student makes a grade of B or higher in an honors project, they will be able to continue in the program. If a student makes two B’s, the department will meet to evaluate the student’s work and the professor’s evaluation to determine whether the student should continue. A grade below B is unacceptable in an honors contract class and will result in dismissal from the program. The student may appeal the decision to the department as a whole.
Students must attend one Honors Colloquium per year while enrolled in DSH. Greater detail for admission, honors contract requirements and other program specifics is provided at www.uu.edu/dept/politicalscience/programs-honors.cfm.
Assessment of Majors
Political science majors culminate their studies by taking Senior Seminar (PSC 498) in which they will demonstrate the ability to write a quality, in-depth political science research paper using the methods of the discipline. The student will present his/her paper to fellow seminar members and political science faculty. All senior political science majors must take the Major Field Achievement Test in Political Science, a national civics test, and write an essay on leadership and an essay demonstrating their understanding of the role of religion in the public square.
Student Organizations
Pi Sigma Alpha is the National Honor Society in Political Science. Eligible students are juniors who have completed ten semester hours of work in political science including at least one upper-division course, with an average grade of B or higher in those courses. They must also have achieved an overall GPA placing them in the top one-third of their whole class (i.e., junior or senior class). They need NOT be political science majors or minors to qualify for membership.
The Union Pre-Law Society is open to all students regardless of major who are interested in attending law school. The purpose is to promote a greater understanding of law and the legal profession and to prepare students for law school.
Student Awards
Departmental Awards are given to graduating seniors for outstanding work in fulfilling a departmental major or minor.
The John W. Burgess Award is granted to a graduating senior for meritorious work in political science.
Political Science Research Awards are presented for the best senior thesis and original research papers in America Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory as part of the requirement for any political science course.
The Civic Engagement Award is presented to the student who best demonstrates the ability to make a significant contribution to public service based on their political, university, and community involvement.