Political Science
Department
The Faculty
The members of this department are noted experts who studied at such prestigious schools as Duke, Wisconsin, Georgia and North Carolina. Their research interests include Southern, urban, and religious history; modern Europe; women's and gender issues; comparative European history and politics; global politics; the Supreme Court; civil liberties and civil rights; and American politics.
About the Major
Students studying history investigate the deeds and ideas of the past. Centenary history majors consider the lives, problems, and achievements of earlier generations, and seek explanations for how and why humans have either altered conditions in their world or have resisted change. A major in political science provides students with the critical reasoning and analytical skills that lead to success. Political science includes the study of the structure and legal basis of governments, the decision-making process, public policy, and the consequence of governmental actions.
Course offerings in these areas are numerous and diverse, which is why many non-majors choose to take several classes in both history and political science. The curriculum stresses critical thinking in addition to excellent oral and written communication skills. Topics of study in history include European heritage, Latin America, U.S. history, the social and intellectual history of America, in addition to several history courses about Louisiana and the South.
Political science offers various levels of courses in American politics, public law, comparative politics, global politics, political analysis, political parties and elections, religion and politics, presidency, international law and organization, and U.S. foreign policy.
Career Opportunities
Many of our graduates pursue careers in law. Centenary boasts a more-than 90 percent placement rate for its graduates in law schools. Others work in politics and business or attend graduate schools in public administration and business. Centenary history and political science graduates are teachers, historians, and political analysts.
