Program: The Political Science program at the University of Montevallo offers a major in Political Science with either a B.A. or a B.S. degree. The program offers courses in American politics, international relations, political philosophy and the role of law in society. Political Science studies provide the communication skills that support active citizenship and empowerment. It incorporates themes, issues, and information related to a variety of disciplines, including History, Sociology, Philosophy, Geography, and Economics. It is a core discipline embodying the highest standards of a liberal arts education. Political Science students may be interested in the Pre-Law Minor and the Human Rights and Public Services Minor.
Employment: Political Science majors have a variety of exciting career options from which to choose. Political Science is an excellent pre-professional degree. Many graduates choose to continue their education in law school, while others may pursue graduate studies in Political Science or a related field. Persons with advanced degrees in Political Science are prepared to become college professors, professional administrators, or researchers. Potential employers include state and federal agencies, congressional offices, private think tanks and interest groups, national political parties, the U.S. Foreign Service, the CIA, the FBI, and international agencies and organizations.
Courses: Political Science courses at the University of Montevallo include the following:
POS 200 American National Government*
POS 250 American State Local Government*
POS 315 African Politics
POS 320 Political Film
POS 340 World Politics*
POS 360 Citizenship and Public Service
POS 370 Research Methods*
POS 380 Foundations of Political Thought
POS 385 Modern Political Thought
POS 402-404 Selected Topics in Political Science
POS 405 Great Books in Political Thought
POS 422 American Political Thought
POS 423 Civil Rights Movement
POS 443 Middle East
POS 444 Public Policy
POS 450 Global Policy Studies
POS 455 International Relations*
POS 475 Constitutional Law*
POS 480 Diplomatic History of the United States
POS 485 Senior Seminar in Social Science
POS 490 Directed Reading in Political Science
POS 495 Government Internship
POS 499 The Science of Politics*
* Required of Political Science majors.
There are also occasional internship opportunities available, such as working with the Alabama State Legislature or a congressional office in Washington D.C.
A minor is not required.
Requirements: Political Science majors must successfully complete each of the following courses in addition to the general education course requirements.
POS 200 American National Government
POS 250 American State & Local Government
POS 340 World Politics
POS 370 Research Methods
POS 455 International Relations
POS 475 Constitutional Law
POS 499 The Science of Politics
GEOG 231 World Regional Geography
Majors must also successfully complete three additional electives in Political Science, for a total of 30 credit hours.
Minors must successfully complete 18 credit hours of Political Science course work, which includes POS 200, POS 250, POS 455, and POS 475.
Scholarships: Scholarships available for Political Science majors include:
The Lucille B. Griffith Scholarship, which is awarded to enrolled students majoring in History or Political Science, who have achieved junior status, have exhibited promise in their studies, and have financial need.
The John B. Walters, Jr. Memorial Scholarship is awarded to enrolled students majoring in a social science field (Social Science, Political Science, Sociology, History), of a least sophomore standing and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. Preference is given to applicants who are preparing for a career in international relations. Applications are available through the Department of Behavioral Social Sciences. The deadline is February 1 for the fall awards.
If you are interested in more information or have questions regarding Political Science at the University of Montevallo, please contact :
Dr. Scott Turner
University of Montevallo
Station 6199
Montevallo, AL 35115
(205) 665-6199