Frequently Asked Questions about Political Science, Pre-Law and Jurisprudence

1. Please explain the Political Science major.
   Political Science is the study of the theory and practice of government and politics. Students who major in Political Science learn about the institutions, groups, leaders, policies, and ideas that shape the American political system and the governments of foreign countries. The Political Science major helps students to develop writing, communication and analytical skills that are critical in a liberal arts education.
   
2. I am interested in going to law school. What coursework can help me to prepare?
   The Political Science major is the most frequent major for pre-law students because of the relationship between government and law. You can enrich your pre-law preparation by combining your Political Science major with a Jurisprudence major or Pre-Law minor. Both of these courses of study enhance the preparation of students for law school.
   
3. Why should I take a double major in Jurisprudence and Political Science?
   The Jurisprudence major compliments the Political Science major by focusing on legal method and law in the liberal arts. Jurisprudence prepares students for law school as well as teaching the interdisciplinary process of approaching issues and problems.
   
4. Can I finish a double major in Political Science and Jurisprudence without postponing my graduation?
   The Political Science major is 33 credits and the Jurisprudence major is 33 credits. Because of potential overlaps between the two majors, a student can complete both majors in 54-57 credits. Since the General Education requirement is 50-54 credits, a student can complete both majors, have leftover credits for free electives, and still graduate on time.
   
5. Why should I take a Pre-Law minor with my Political Science major?
   The Pre-Law minor provides enhanced preparation for law school for students who are unable or prefer not to double major in Jurisprudence.
   
6. What is the difference between a taking a Jurisprudence major and a Pre-Law minor?
   The Jurisprudence major provides a full interdisciplinary approach to law and an examination of the societal forces that generate statutes, case law and regulations. This includes the year-long interdisciplinary Senior Seminar capstone experience. The Pre-Law minor includes many gen. ed. Level courses and provides a more general and briefer preparatory experience.