PROGRAMS OF STUDY
The department of Political Science offers the bachelor of arts and bachelor of science degrees. The department’s academic offerings cover the full range of essential subjects in the discipline of political science: political philosophy, constitutional law, American government and politics, comparative politics and international relations, and diplomacy and statecraft. Students interested in political science for the purpose of becoming secondary school teachers should consult the catalog section on the Social Sciences divisional major.
Pre-law political science has long been the traditional major of choice for students who plan to attend law school. While law schools do not require any particular undergraduate major, the study of politics, including courses that make use of legal materials and legal reasoning and that illumine the political context of court decisions, is arguably the most logical and appropriate academic area for those intending a career in law. Whatever their major, pre-law students should consult with Professor Evans (the pre-law advisor), or with other members of the department, on which particular courses in political science and in other departments would most suitably prepare them and on matters having to do with applying to law school.
Major and Tracks/Concentrations:
- Political Science (B.A., B.S.) — concentrations in American Studies, Constitutional Studies, Legal Studies, Political Ideas, Politics & Culture, and War & Peace
Course Requirements and Offerings
Rockford University’s Political Science department offers students the opportunity to either major or minor in political science.
More information in the Academic Catalog.
History
Historians study and reinterpret the past because society’s concerns constantly change, and more historical sources are discovered and made available every day. These sources help illuminate the past and illustrate that history is neither stagnant nor dull. Proper study of history is not based on memorization but on interpretation and analysis. Understanding history involves integrating ideas and narrative, as well as a consideration of the influence of individuals and social forces on human events. The student of history has to make judgments about a broad range of evidence using an array of values and motivations. While the subject matter is the past, the principal goal of the Rockford University history program is to encourage students to read and think critically and write clearly in order to more fully interact with the present and future worlds.
The department offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. Either degree offers the student a comprehensive background that embodies and enhances the liberal arts tradition. Internships in museums and other settings are available and encouraged.
Career Opportunities
Like other majors with a liberal arts focus, a history degree prepares students for a variety of opportunities in business and other careers where critical thinking and the ability to express oneself well are valued. Any area of museum work from education to exhibits and curatorial activities is possible for students with a history major. The history major is also excellent preparation for many professional programs, including the study of law, library science or museum studies. A degree in history can also lead to either graduate school or a career in secondary education.
Secondary Education Licensure (Grades 6-12)
Students interested in becoming licensed to teach History at the secondary level must complete all History major degree requirements, Education 324, a minor in secondary education, and additional General Education requirements for state licensure. For further information, see the licensure degree requirements below and the Education department section of the catalog.
Political Science
Scarborough Hall
5050 E. State St.
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4029
Fax:815-394-5171
Jules Gleicher, Ph.D.
JGleicher@rockford.edu
