Political scientists study political ideas and analyze governments, policies and political trends. Politics involves systematic preparation for the law, government service, administration, journalism, teaching, lobbying, nonprofit activities, the intelligence services, the military and police, and corporate strategy.
Political science students gain a broad knowledge of domestic and foreign political institutions, processes and problems. The political science program in The University of Tulsa’s Kendall College of Arts and Sciences offers a bachelor of arts degree that focuses on three areas: American politics, international studies, and political and legal theory.
Undergraduates choose the political science degree track for many reasons. Some imagine themselves in the halls of power and seek the fast track of political involvement in parties, candidates and issues. Others analyze the sweep of space and time showing the tragedy of clashing nations and people. Politics shows language students how the speakers of their languages are governed and prepares them for international careers. Business managers and executives have gone global and search for the bottom line with the eye of a political analyst. Scientists raise questions of ethics, fundraising and societal direction that only statecraft can answer. Teachers have a natural interest in understanding the spirit of American democracy. The study of law also is closely linked to political science.