Division of Arts and Humanities

Political Science

Political Science, B.A. (PLSAL)

Program Learning Objectives: Goals, Outcomes and Assessment

Goal 1:
Students should have a basic understanding of international actors and issues, the key institutions and processes of American political life, and political theories.

  • Objective 1.1
    Identify and analyze political exchanges that occur between states and other non-state actors.
  • Objective 1.2
    Interpret the decision-making processes of political parties, the President and executive administration, Congress, and the Supreme Court.
  • Objective 1.3
    Understand the assumptions of theories of politics, and be able to use theories of politics to explain political actions.

Goal 2:
Students should be able to analyze political phenomena beyond the level of the specific event.

  • Objective 2.1
    Analyze trends among states and non-state actors.
  • Objective 2.2
    Compare and contrast the domestic politics and institutions of different political systems.
  • Objective 2.3
    Assess the basics of federalism and policy making.
  • Objective 2.4
    Judge the methods used to acquire knowledge about politics.

Goal 3:
Provide students with the resources necessary to be active and informed citizens.

  • Objective 3.1
    Develop knowledge of the U.S. electoral process, role of representation, and non-electoral political activities.
  • Objective 3.2
    Recognize and comprehend opposing viewpoints.
  • Objective 3.3
    Demonstrate how political institutions shape individual and collective behavior.

Goal 4:
Students should develop the skills necessary for analysis and communication.

  • Objective 4.1
    Write effectively in a variety styles (such as legal briefs, essays, case studies, etc.).
  • Objective 4.2
    Develop public speaking skills, including appropriate use of technology.
  • Objective 4.3
    Define research problems, and assess and interpret data and events.

Assessment Measures

  1. A study every two years of the career paths and current jobs of our political science alumni
  2. Annual exit interviews open to all graduating seniors. Interviews include questions about mastery of intended learning outcomes in the form of objective questions as well the general classroom experience.

Contact:

Dr. Daniel DiLeo
Associate Professor of Political Science
Arts and Humanities

Office: 129B Smith Building
Phone: 814-949-5284
Email:
WWW: http://www.personal.psu.edu/dxd22