Learning Outcomes

Political Research Skills

Students can demonstrate the ability to conduct library research on political science topics using a variety of scholarly and popular resources.

Analysis of Political Information

Students will be able to identify and describe a variety of ways of analyzing information and will be able to critically analyze quantitative and/or qualitative data and/or other forms of information and evidence.

Effective Argumentation

Students can effectively present arguments, both about research and political positions, orally and in writing.

Professional and Career Readiness

Students demonstrate professional and career readiness by applying their knowledge and skills to learn from experience in politics and/or government.

American Political Processes

Students can demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to think critically about the ideals, processes, institutions, and behaviors of diverse political actors, including state and non-state entities, in United States politics.

Global Political Processes

Students can demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to think critically about the ideals, processes, institutions, and behaviors of state and non-state actors, outside of the United States, in a comparative and/or international way.

Normative and Legal Underpinnings

Students can demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to think critically about political concepts (such as power, oppression, and resistance) and political ideals (such as justice, equality, and liberation), as well as the theoretical and legal underpinnings of political systems and processes.

Global and Political Engagement

Students will produce and apply political science knowledge to engage with diverse communities and perspectives, contributing towards pluralistic forms of justice in local, global, and epistemic dimensions.

Why Are Department Learning Goals Important?

Department learning goals provide a clear and rigorous framework for your education, ensuring that every course and experience you encounter is purposeful and thoughtfully designed. By aligning with the university's General Education (GE) and institutional learning goals, these objectives guarantee a comprehensive and cohesive curriculum.

For you, this means a focus on pedagogy that emphasizes not just knowledge, but also the skills and abilities you need to excel—whether in your chosen career or further studies. These goals ensure that you gain critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills, while also fostering creativity and ethical awareness. They set a high standard, helping you achieve more than you might have thought possible during your time here.

Adopted 12/6/2024

PLS students at the Iowa Caucus at a Bernie Sanders rally

Learn By Doing

Politics in Practice

Our students connect political science to civic life through faculty-guided research, internships and work with real institutions.

Explore the Undergraduate Program