The politics curriculum at Hillsdale reflects the institution’s commitment to preserving the traditions of Greco-Roman culture, the Judeo-Christian heritage, and the American experiment in self-government.
Students majoring in politics will receive a thorough grounding in classical and modern political philosophy, American political thought, American politics, and international politics.
All courses require a careful and detailed examination of original texts and documents. Students of politics will immerse themselves in the foundational works of political philosophy and American political thought.
Requirements
Note: This represents a general overview of the major and minor. For more information, please consult the current college catalog, or contact the department.
Politics Major
A major in politics requires 33 hours of coursework. Required courses include:
- Politics 101: U.S. Constitution
- Politics 202: American Political Thought
- Politics 211: Classical Political Philosophy
- Politics 220: Introduction to American Foreign Policy
- Politics 212: Modern Political Philosophy I: Social Contract Theory, or
- Politics 214: Modern Political Philosophy II: Idealism, Historicism, Nihilism
Of the additional 18 hours required, at least six must be taken at the 400 level and at least one elective must be chosen from the American Politics offerings.
Senior politics majors must also complete a comprehensive politics examination.
Politics Minor
A minor in politics consists of 21 hours, with Politics 101 required as part of the total. Politics 101 is a prerequisite for all other politics courses.