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B.A. Degree in Politics
Minor in Politics
Secondary Teacher Licensure
In Catawba College’s Politics bachelor’s degree program, undergraduates achieve a comprehensive, broad-based overview of the study of political science, including courses in American politics, comparative politics, and research in the social sciences. Politics majors also focus on developing key skills that are critical in today’s professional world of work, including excellent communication skills honed through writing assignments, oral presentations, and visual information presentations; critical thinking skills developed through reading assignments and classroom discussions; analytical problem-solving skills; and a deeper appreciation of the importance and values of governance and citizenship.
The merits of earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics from Catawba College are affirmed by U.S. News which ranks Catawba as #4 among the Best Regional Colleges in the South and by The Princeton Review which perennially includes Catawba among the nation’s top institutions in its annual Best Colleges guidebook. In small classes, taught by knowledgeable and inspiring faculty who carefully advise their students, Politics majors focus on their interests as well as on their future career and professional goals. Students who pursue Catawba College’s Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics may focus on one of two concentrations:
At Catawba, students may opt to minor in Politics. By doing so, they develop the knowledge, abilities, and values central in the study of political science and in liberal education. This development helps assure that these students will embrace intellectual curiosity and growth; practice citizenship, service, and civility; have respect for the intrinsic value of all human beings; and engage in academic reflection during their collegiate career.
Students who complete requirements for B.A. degree in Politics can pursue a Secondary (grades 9-12) Teacher Licensure that will allow them to teach Social Studies. These students must satisfy the requirements for undergraduate teacher licensure (including the Secondary Education Minor and student teaching) outlined under the heading for the Department of Teacher Education. Students pursuing Comprehensive Social Studies licensure should consult with the Department of Teacher Education for additional required coursework.
The Politics Bachelor of Arts degree program at Catawba College offers the choice of two concentrations: Pre-Law and Public Administration. This broad-based approach to the study of politics is valued by potential employers because it provides students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems; communication skills; critical thinking skills; analytical problem-solving skills; decision-making skills; and research skills. Under the guidance of the department’s engaged and inspiring faculty, Catawba’s Politics majors accept responsibility for the development of their own educational careers.
In the recent past, Catawba Politics majors have pursued a variety of internships including opportunities at local law firms to social service agencies, and at local, state and federal government offices.
Study Abroad opportunities for Politics majors are often associated with course-specific offerings and also through the College Honors Program.
Politics majors are able to conduct and present their own political research that are often born of projects completed for specific classes with Politics Department faculty. This research may be presented at the annual campus Interdisciplinary Creativity and Research Symposium, at the State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Research Symposium, or at other professional and honors conferences.
Outcomes
JOBS IN POLITICS.
Politics majors from Catawba College are making their mark in the following positions:
GRADUATE SCHOOLS.
Catawba College Politics alumni have gone on to earn degrees at the following schools:
"Aside from a beautiful campus set in a great small town like Salisbury, what drew me to Catawba was the opportunity to develop a close working relationship with all of my professors. I feel they were able to build upon my strengths and challenged me to excel, both in and out of the classroom.
"My dream is to someday work in politics at the state or local level where I feel I can have the most positive impact on those constituents. The knowledge I gained and the support I received from the very involved faculty at Catawba gave me confidence that my dream is well within my sights."
Kimberly Renspie '12
Political Science Major (American Politics)
The Catawba Political Science Association (CPSA) serves as an academic and professional focal point for students majoring, minoring, and/or interested in Politics and Political Science as disciplines or areas for related careers. Members meet regularly for scholastic and social activities. Delegations regularly attend such professional meetings as the American Political Science Association, the Southern Political Science Association, and the North Carolina Political Science Association. Membership is open to all Political Science Majors and Minors.
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