The primary objective of the undergraduate political science program, located in the Department of Political Science, is to provide students with the conceptual and analytical tools for understanding political institutions and processes. The political science curriculum is designed to satisfy the needs of (1) those students desiring to major or minor in political science and (2) those students majoring in other fields of study who elect to include courses in political science as a part of their general education requirements. In addition, the department administers an undergraduate degree program in public administration( with the goal of preparing students for careers in local, state, and/or federal government) and in international studies (with the goal of preparing students for careers in international relations and comparative politics).

The 36 hour program offers courses in state government and politics, local government and politics, intergovernmental relations, public management, public policy, program evaluation, government budgeting, community and regional planning, and a variety of substantive policy topics (education policy, environmental policy, and community and economic development policy). The program also requires a six credit hour internship in a government or non-profit organization.