Aristotle described political science as the "highest and
ruling science" for human actions because it aims at the human good in the most
comprehensive sense. Those who study political science inquire into the
permanent questions of justice and the good life, as well as the particular,
urgent decisions facing leaders and citizens in the United States and the
international arena.
The Department of Political Science at Salve Regina provides
students with essential knowledge of institutions and regimes, legislation and
constitutional law, and the origins of war and peace while grounding them in
the teachings of the great political philosophers.
Our program offers both a major and minor in political
science, and coursework covers the full range of the discipline's subfields of
American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political
theory. Additionally, majors have the option of concentrating in either American
government or international relations and comparative politics.
Led by a highly qualified, approachable faculty, our
small classes provide students with the opportunity to interact closely with
each other and with their professors. Our challenging curriculum hones
students' critical reasoning, research, writing, speaking, planning and
organizational skills, teaching them how to gather relevant information, form
logical and clear arguments and articulate their thoughts.
We encourage our students to extend their study of
politics outside the classroom. Active student organizations - including the Model
United Nations Club, Political Science Club, College Republicans and College
Democrats - give undergraduates the chance to become personally involved in politics
at the local, national and international levels. Beyond campus, our students
complete exciting internships at the state and federal level and pursue
volunteer opportunities, work with local organizations and study abroad.
With extensive training in research, analysis, writing
and public speaking, our majors are well prepared for both graduate programs
and professional careers. While many attend law school,
others find success in such fields as international relations, intelligence
and law enforcement, lobbying and business.
Through the University's accelerated program,
highly motivated and qualified undergraduates can earn both a bachelor's degree
in political science and a master’s degree in international relations within
five years.