Our department’s curriculum is designed to cultivate active and productive citizenship, as well as provide versatile skills and knowledge. The curriculum has four thematic pathways that connect theories and practices of politics; these pathways will guide students to deepen their personal interest in politics and political science:
- Democracy, Society, and the State
- Globalization, Development and Sustainability
- Leadership, Peace and Security
- Philosophical and Legal Inquiries.
Former students who have graduated from Carleton with a degree in Political Science and International Relations are working in both for-profit and non-profit sectors, government and non-governmental organizations, in domestic and international affairs, and are doing so with post-graduate degrees in business administration, environmental studies, international & global affairs, law, public policies and public administration, to name just a few areas. In addition, several graduates have pursued a Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science and Public Policy in graduate institutions throughout the world.
Info for First-Year Students
The political science department at Carleton offers courses in all branches of political science. We represent a variety of fields and interests. We also have a wide spectrum of political opinions and a variety of approaches. This fosters lively debate in classes, and in the Carleton community as a whole, about issues of public concern. We have a tradition of student interest in political affairs, and a department that is large and diverse for the size of the College.
Can I major in Political Science?
Yes. It’s known as “Political Science & International Relations”. Note: there is no minor, but there is a public policy minor, which combines political science and economics classes.
Topics explored
American government and politics, comparative political systems, international relations and world politics, and political philosophy.
How to get started?
First-year students normally begin their study in the department with POSC 120: Democracy and Dictatorship, POSC 122: Politics in America: Liberty and Equality or POSC 160: Political Philosophy, POSC 170: International Relations and World Politics. Some 200-level courses are open to first-year students.