2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog
Political Science, Public Administration, and Ethnic Studies
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120 Minné Hall
507.457.5500, Fax: 507.457.2621
Political Science website
Ethnic Studies website
Matthew Bosworth, Chairperson
Faculty
Elissa Alzate, Professor; BA, Florida International University; MA, PhD, University of California-Davis; 2012 -
Matthew Bosworth, Professor; BA, Johns Hopkins University; MA, PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison; 1997 -
Jim Cottrill, Professor; BA, University of Louisville; PhD, Texas A&M University; 2024 -
Darrell Downs, Professor; BA, BS, Montana State University; MS, Oregon State University; PhD, Colorado State University; 1992 -
Edward Guernica, Associate Professor; BA, San Jose State; MA, PhD, Tulane University; 2004 -
Fredrick Lee, Professor; AB, University of New Orleans; AM, PhD, University of Michigan; 1992 -
Tara Lopez, Assistant Professor; BA, University of New Mexico; MA, University of California-San Diego; PhD, University of Manchester; 2022 -
Kim Park Nelson, Associate Professor; MS, University of Delaware; PhD, University of Minnesota; 2021 -
Purpose
Political science deals with the theory and practice of politics, government, and administration. The essence of political science is to discover how, when, and why people and governments shape public decisions. As an academic discipline, it includes political theory, public law, public administration, American politics and policy (domestic and foreign), and governments and politics of different countries.
The primary objective of the political science curriculum is to prepare students for graduate studies and/or careers in public service, business, or education. The study of political science also provides a strong background for success in law school. Generally, students majoring in political science find that it helps them understand the changing political environment and prepares them to take responsibility in their community, nation, and the world at large. Whether a student is interested in a career in public service, the study of politics is a solid preparation for life as a critical thinking adult.
Pass/No Credit (P/NC) Courses
Except for internships, students must take all courses in the major and minor on a grade-only basis. The P/NC option is available to non-majors for all courses.
Double Majors
For students majoring in both political science and public administration, required courses for one major can be applied to the requirements of the other, but at least 15 credits must be non-duplicative.
Ethnic Studies Minor
For information on Ethnic Studies, visit the Ethnic Studies page.
General Education Intensive Requirements
Students may use intensive courses to satisfy both General Education Program (GEP) and major requirements. Intensive courses will usually be in the student’s major or minor program. The following are offered as GEP intensive courses in the Political Science and Public Administration Department:
Intensives
Oral (◎)
Math/Critical Analysis (◆)
Writing (△)
Intensive courses that can be used to satisfy major/minor requirements are identified in the lists of required courses and electives.
ProgramsBachelor of ArtsBachelor of ScienceMinor
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