Purposes

• To emphasize rigorous analysis of political structures, historical changes and continuities, and human relationships;
• To train students in the craft of communicating their ideas orally and in writing with precision and formal organization;
• To help students attain career-enhancing experiences outside the classroom;
• To equip students for immediate entry into either graduate/law school or a chosen career.

Tradition of Excellence

The Department of History and Political Science has a strong tradition of encouraging scholarship for service. The faculty not only have doctorates from renowned universities and personal scholarly pursuits, they also have abiding commitments to helping students learn about the people, events, and political structures that have created, and are creating, the world in which we live. The classroom goal of understanding is coupled with Wesleyan emphasis on human responsibility and creativity: To whom much is given, much is expected. Each of the three majors offers distinct avenues of study and career options; however, the students and faculty are joined in the belief that intelligent and wise Christians can be a force for good in the world. Small classes, student clubs, student-faculty dinners, shared travel opportunities, internship experiences, visiting lectures, and tight-knit departmental friendships provide the possibility of a fulfilling scholarly life in Colt Hall. Housed also in Colt Hall and overseen by department faculty are the Margaret Stevenson Center for Women’s Studies, and the Institute of Politics and Public Service.

Career Opportunities

Most graduates pursue careers in law, social service, government, teaching, public policy, non-profit organizations, international relations, business, public affairs, urban planning, public administration, and ministry. The department helps students find internships that fit career targets. Over the last decade a strong track record has been established for placing students, often with excellent scholarships and fellowships, in high-quality graduate schools, including UC Berkeley, Harvard, Yale, Cornell, UCSD, and UCLA. Our hope is that these who are beginning their post-graduate careers will follow in the footsteps of established alumni who include college professors, librarians, directors of relief agencies, judges, public policy experts, school administrators, diplomats, leaders within religious denominations, and a university president. Students are encouraged and empowered in the department to be creative with their lives in the service of church, community, nation, and world.

Faculty

Linda Beail, Ph.D.
University of Iowa

Ben Cater, Ph.D.
University of Utah

Rick Kennedy, Ph.D.
University of California, Santa Barbara

Jaeyoon Kim, Ph.D.
University of Oregon

Lindsey Lupo, Ph.D.
University of California, Irvine

Kelli McCoy, Ph.D.
University of California, San Diego

Amy Nantkes, Ph.D.
Claremont Graduate University

Rosco Williamson, Ph.D.
University of California, San Diego

William Wood, Ph.D.
Indiana University

To view requirements for majors, minors, and certificates, see the Degree Program Information page.