Political Science

http://www.whitworth.edu/politicalscience

The Whitworth Political Science Department strives to embody the university’s education of mind-and-heart mission through excellent teaching, open and robust debate, active scholarship and personal mentoring. Our goal is to prepare students for careers in government and politics, law, humanitarian work, teaching, research and peacemaking, as well as for work in related fields, such as business and missions. The department is committed to providing students with the political knowledge and skills that will enable them to assume responsibility from the local level to the global community. Through the study of political theory and law, the analysis of a variety of political systems, internships and off-campus study, and rigorous research projects, faculty members challenge students to develop both the tools and the vision for understanding, nurturing and transforming the society in which they live. All of our courses are informed by a commitment to justice and reconciliation as articulated by the great political thinkers throughout history, and, especially, as defined by the principles of the Christian faith.

Student Learning Outcomes in the Department of Political Science:

  1. Students will gain knowledge of the central concepts of three subfields in political science: American politics, international relations and comparative politics.
  2. Students will be able to articulate their own worldview as it relates to political life.
  3. Students will practice civic engagement by applying knowledge of political science concepts.

Pre-Law

Whitworth's rigorous liberal arts education is ideal training for law school and the legal profession. Recent graduates have been accepted into law schools at Yale, Stanford, Duke, the University of Michigan, Cornell and the University of Washington, and Whitworth alumni are working at some of the most successful law firms in Washington and throughout the U.S. Pre-law students are welcome to select any liberal arts major, but they may find the most relevant law-school preparation in programs offered through the departments of history, political science, literature, philosophy, economics, sociology, psychology, mathematics and science. Regardless of students' majors, Whitworth prepares its graduates to succeed in law school by equipping them with a broad knowledge base and strong analytic, critical-thinking and communication skills. In addition, the pre-law advisor actively assists students in developing an appropriate course plan and in making other arrangements for taking the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and applying for law school.

While Whitworth does not have a designated pre-law curriculum, the following courses are recommended:

Pre-Law Recommended Courses

PO 102American National Politics3
PO 223Introduction to Law and the Legal System3
PO 464WAmerican Constitutional Law3
PH 201Logic3
PH 221Ethics3
COM 402Mass Media Law3
BU 240Business Law3

3+3 Law and Justice Program

Advisor: Julia Stronks

Highly motivated students interested in law school can complete a bachelor's degree at Whitworth and a law degree at Gonzaga in a total of six years, rather than the typical seven, through a 3+3 partnership between the two universities. This innovative program provides the best of Whitworth's liberal arts foundation and pre-law curriculum with the Jesuit-inspired, solution-oriented curriculum of Gonzaga's law school to provide students a cost-efficient path to a law degree.

Courses

PO 102 American National Politics3
Overview of founding principles, political culture decision-making processes and institutions of American government.
PO 140 African Life and Culture3
Examination of representative African peoples, countries, lifestyles, and beliefs. Topics covered will include media coverage of Africa, traditional and modernizing influences on African lives today, Africans as global citizens, health, gender, religion and rites of passage. Jan Term.
PO 150 Magic is Might? The Politics of Harry Potter3
This course offers an introduction to politics through the lens of the Harry Potter novels. It considers power, citizenship, activism, identity politics, and governance. Students should be familiar with the Harry Potter series and will not be protected from spoilers. Periodic offering.
PO 151 International Relations3
This course is a balance between understanding the key issues in international relations and the perspectives that help explain those issues. Foreign policy behavior of major states, traditional and recent security issues, cause of war and conflicts, impact of independence. Fall and spring semesters.
PO 204 Data in Politics3
This course provides an introduction to the scientific storytelling of political phenomenon (a.k.a. research design) and the data we use to answer substantive questions about politics. The focus of this course is twofold. First, it seeks to introduce students in political science and related social science disciplines key approaches and elements of research design. Second, it focuses on using data as a tool to help us understand politics.
PO 223 Introduction to Law and the Legal System3
The role of law in society. Participants in the legal system (lawyers, judges, police, juries), study of the structure of the judicial system, trial procedures. Periodic offering.
PO 240 Comparative Politics3
This course explores democratic and authoritarian state structures while also considering the impact of economics and social processes on democracy and development. Cases are drawn from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
PO 242 American Political Parties3
The role and functioning of parties in American politics and government. Interest groups, political action committees, campaigning and voting behavior are also examined.
PO 250 Environmental Politics3
Studies the role of markets, governments, and civil society in shaping the way people behave toward the environment, focusing on the concept of sustainability in terms of society, economics and the environment. Because people interact in a variety of ways, the course moves from local to global and focuses on issues at each level. Also listed as ENS 250.
PO 263 American Foreign Policy3
Major themes, debates, patterns and precedents of American foreign policy, emphasizing 20th-century diplomatic issues.
PO 275 Poverty and Community Development3
Examines the changing tasks of cities and states in managing our societal future and the effectiveness of structures and policies. Highlights the politics of welfare and affirmative action. Also listed as CE 275.
PO 297 Nonviolent Defense and Conflict Resolution3
Major themes in the history and politics of nonviolence. Just War theory, nuclear pacifism, alternatives to military force, interpersonal conflict resolution. Ideas of Jesus, Tolstoy, Gandhi, Niebuhr, M.L. King, Jr., Gene Sharp.
PO 301 British Politics3
This course examines the British system of government in the context of the ongoing constitutional and political upheaval that is Brexit (British Exit from the EU).
PO 302 Legal Issues in Social & Behavioral Studies3
This course presents a brief historic overview of the American judicial system, and a comprehensive study of our contemporary legal processes and systems, with emphasis on issues and tensions between the legal system, societal norms, and individual interest.
PO 303 International Organizations3
This course will focus on the purposes, functions and problems of the United Nations as a global international organization since its founding in 1945. The practical realities and theoretical implications of the UN and other formal international organizations will be our focus.
PO 312 South Africa Program Preparation1
Preparation course for all students who will be part of the South Africa study program. Emphasis on the politics, history, and culture of South Africa. Acceptance into PO 341 required.
PO 314 Tanzania Program Preparation1
Preparation course for all students who will be part of the Semester in Tanzania program. Emphasis on the politics, history, economics, religion and culture of Tanzania.
PO 315 Understanding Global Issues3
This course provides an opportunity to learn about and reflect upon current issues in today's world. Issues covered will include the concept of human rights, war and peace, economic development, ethnicity, diversity, and environmental degradation. Continuing studies only.
PO 319 International Human Rights3
This course offers an introduction to the theory and practice of human rights. We will critically examine the international and domestic laws, actors, and institutions that play a role in the protection (or violation) of human rights. This class introduces you to the conceptual foundations of human rights and key theoretical debates about the field with a focus on recurring questions regarding legitimacy, justice, compliance, and efficacy.
PO 320 American Political Process3
This course focuses on Western political theory and its intersection with public administration. Particular focus will be placed on issues related to social services. Required course for the social services major. Continuing studies only.
PO 321 Faith and Politics3
Politics is a window through which one explores the ways that biblical virtues such as justice, compassion, mercy, equity, humility and integrity offer viable alternatives to the cultural norms evident in our society. We will consider the role that Christianity can play in American public policy, focusing on the evangelical, Reformed, Catholic and Anabaptist traditions. Students will develop expertise in a policy area of their choice.
PO 325 International Development3
This course focuses on the challenges faced by poor countries located in the global south. It will include discussion of the political, cultural, social and economic factors that influence human development. We will practice applying major social science theories to specific, practical development problems. Attention will also be paid to the impact of globalization on the developing world. Regions discussed will include Latin America, Africa, Asia and eastern Europe. Also listed as DS 425W. Also listed as LAS 425W. Restricted to Political Science, Peace Studies, and International Studies majors, or by Dept. approval. PO-240 recommended prerequisite.
PO 331 The American Presidency3
Constitutional development of the office. Executive branch relations with Congress, the bureaucracy, the judiciary, the media and the public.
PO 332 Modern Congress3
Evolution of Congress and its relationship to modern society, the bureaucracy and the executive. Special focus on the process of (and participants in) policy making.
PO 334 American Political Thought3
Principal ideas influencing American political institutions and policies. Rights, theories, the influence of faith and the development of our law are considered.
PO 336 Gender, Politics and Law3
Issues related to gender in American political history. Theoretical foundation of the women's movement; current political conflict related to gender in workplace, family and society. Also listed as WGS 336.
PO 340 African Politics3
Pre-colonial, colonial, and post-independence political history of key African countries. Analysis of contemporary issues in African politics.
PO 341 Contemporary South Africa3
Analysis of the history, politics and religion of this fascinating African country. Also listed as HI 341. Periodic Jan Term in South Africa.
PO 342 American Political Parties3
The history, role, and function of parties in American politics and government. Interest groups, political action committees, campaigning and voting behavior are also examined.
PO 346 Contemporary China and East Asia3
Interpretation of recent events in China, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, through the cultural, historic, economic and institutional aspects of these societies.
PO 350 East African Politics3
Analysis of the political economy and history of East Africa, with a focus on issues such as colonialism, NGOs, ethnicity, and development. Periodic spring term in Tanzania.
PO 359 Global Environmental Politics3
Investigating the political dynamics of environmental affairs from a global perspective.
PO 360 Leading Sustainable Organizations3
This course will teach the need to find resources (fund raising, governmental support, sales) and effectively deliver services. Performance measurement and outcome tracking will be covered.
PO 364 American Constitutional Law3
Examination of key Supreme Court decisions involving separation of powers, national regulation of the economy, church and state, civil rights and civil liberties. Prerequisite: PO 102. These distinctions will be clearly marked in the syllabus.
PO 371 Introduction to Public Administration3
An introduction to the key elements of public administration, set in a context that considers current political, economic, administrative, social and public service practice. Topics may include organization theory, management of human and fiscal resources, governance, and public policy. Included will be an examination of values and issues contemporary to local, state, and national constituencies. Periodic offering.
PO 403W International Organizations3
This course will focus on the purposes, functions and problems of the United Nations as a global international organization since its founding in 1945. The practical realities and theoretical implications of the UN and other formal international organizations will be our focus.
PO 421W Faith and Politics3
Politics is a window through which one explores the ways that biblical virtues such as justice, compassion, mercy, equity, humility and integrity offer viable alternatives to the cultural norms evident in our society. We will consider the role that Christianity can play in American public policy, focusing on the evangelical, Reformed, Catholic and Anabaptist traditions. Students will develop expertise in a policy area of their choice. Research and writing intensive.
PO 434W American Political Thought3
Principal ideas influencing American political institutions and policies. Rights, theories, the influence of faith and the development of our law are considered.
PO 436W Gender, Politics and Law3
Issues related to gender in American political history. Theoretical foundation of the women's movement; current political conflict related to gender in workplace, family, and society.
PO 446W Contemporary China and East Asia3
Interpretation of recent events in China, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, through the cultural, historic, economic and institutional aspects of these societies.
PO 463 American Foreign Policy3
Major themes, debates, patterns and precedents of American foreign policy, emphasizing 20th-century diplomatic issues.
PO 464W American Constitutional Law3
Examination of key Supreme Court decisions involving separation of powers, national regulation of the economy, church and state, civil rights and civil liberties. Prerequisite: PO 102.
PO 490 Internship1-12
PO 498 Vocations in Political Science1
Skills for graduate study and/or positions in domestic and international affairs.
PO 498W Senior Seminar3
In-depth research paper. Skills for graduate study and/or management positions in domestic and international affairs. Fall and spring semesters.

 

Requirements for an International Studies Major, Political Science Emphasis, B.A. (43)

EC 211Principles of Macroeconomics3
See math prerequisites for EC 211
PO 102American National Politics3
PO 151International Relations3
PO 240Comparative Politics3
PO 498Vocations in Political Science 1
Six semester credits of foreign language6
(at the intermediate level in Chinese or Japanese, or at the advanced (300+) level in German, French or Spanish)
Four courses in regional studies (two-course sequence recommended):12
Political History of Beijing
Cultural Odyssey of China
Political History of Beijing
Cultural Odyssey of China
Cultural History of China and Japan
Modern China and East Asia
Modern Russia and the Soviet Union
The French Revolution
African Life and Culture
African Politics
Contemporary South Africa
Contemporary China and East Asia
Sociology of Middle-Eastern Society
Latin American Politics
Three courses in theory, general historical studies or political issues:9
Environmental Politics
Colonialism and Globalization
Nonviolent Defense and Conflict Resolution
International Development,Justice and Difference in Contemporary Political Theory
Gender, Politics and Law
Gender, Politics and Law
International Political Economy
Revolution in History
International Law
One additional 400 level PO course from above3
Students pursuing an international studies major must complete at least 3 of their 43 credits through a foreign study experience. They must also complete the International Studies Passport advising and reflection as part of their foreign study experience.

 

Requirements for a Peace Studies Major, B.A. (43)

Foundations for Peace Studies
PO 102American National Politics3
PO 151International Relations3
PO 240Comparative Politics3
PO 297Nonviolent Defense and Conflict Resolution3
Religious Ideals, Social Values and Peace3
One of the following:
Ethics
National and Global Sources of Conflict, War, Revolution and Peace6
Two of the following:
World at War: 1900-1945
African Politics
Contemporary South Africa
Contemporary China and East Asia
Revolution in History
Sociology of Middle-Eastern Society
U.S. Civil Rights Movements
Sects and Violence
Economics, Environmental and Social Sources of Conflict and Peace6
Two of the following:
Environmental Politics
Economic Development
Economics of Social Issues
Poverty and Community Development
International Political Economy
Globalization
Social Stratification: Power, Prestige And Wealth
Deviance, Crime and Criminal Justice
Cities and Urban Life
Making Change: Social Intervention Strategies
Population Analysis
Ideologies, Identities, Political Structures and Peace6
Two of the following:
Identity, Race, and Power in American Life
African Life and Culture
Introduction to Law and the Legal System
International Development,Justice and Difference in Contemporary Political Theory
Gender, Politics and Law
Gender, Politics and Law
International Law
Race and Ethnicity
Sociology of Gender
Sociology of Religion
Intercultural Communication
World Religions
Intro Women's and Gender Studies
Two additional courses chosen from any listed above, one of which must be a 400-level PO course.6
Peacemaking in Practice
PO 490Internship3
PO 498Vocations in Political Science 1
Note: Study abroad is strongly recommended.

Requirements for a Political Science Major, B.A. (40)

PO 102American National Politics3
PO 151International Relations3
PO 240Comparative Politics3
One 400W Political Science course3
PO 490Internship3
PO 498Vocations in Political Science 1
Eight additional political science courses (3 credits each), at least four of which must be upper division. Only three additional internship credits may count toward the major. 24

Requirements for a Minor in Peace Studies (15)

PO 297Nonviolent Defense and Conflict Resolution3
Four approved peace-studies courses12

Requirements for a Minor in Political Science (18)

PO 102American National Politics3
PO 151International Relations3
One course in American politics3
One course in international politics3
Two approved upper-division courses6

Requirements for a Minor in Law and Justice (21)

PO 102American National Politics3
PO 223Introduction to Law and the Legal System3
PO 464WAmerican Constitutional Law3
Select four of the following:12
Gender, Politics and Law
International Law
American Constitutional Law
Internship
Logic
or PH 301
Symbolic Logic
Ethics
Mass Media Law
Freedom and Responsibility of Speech,Freedom & Respnblty of Speech
For other approved courses, see Professor Julia Stronks.
Dean of Arts & Sciences

JOHN PELL

Chair

JULIA STRONKS

Professor

MEGAN HERSHEY

Assistant professors

AARON HITEFIELDBI ZHAO