Political Science and Economics Department

Department Chair-Postolache

Associate Professors-Lucas, Marilley, Postolache

Assistant Professor-Abdiah, Claar

https://www.capital.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/economics/

http://www.capital.edu/Academics/Majors-and-Minors/Political-Science/

Economics

Economics examines why and how people produce, consume, and trade goods and services. It also examines the rationale for government intervention in markets, how governments intervene, and the effects of government intervention.

The economics major provides preparation in theoretical and applied economics. The program is based on a comprehensive core of economic theory-two courses in the principles of economics and two intermediate courses. Students broaden and add to their knowledge of economics by taking four economics electives. Students are also required to take classes in mathematics and a class in statistics to enhance the skills used in economic analysis. Opportunities exist for more intensive preparation in quantitative techniques. Students may also extend their knowledge through a senior thesis, individual studies, or internships.

The major in economics is grounded in liberal studies. The faculty believes strongly that economics students should have a thorough background in liberal arts. Students are encouraged to acquire knowledge of other areas and develop skills to complement their studies in economics. Double majors are often possible.

Many of Capital’s economics majors go on to graduate school in economics, law or business. An economics major also provides a good background for a career in government or business upon graduation from Capital. Students who plan to go to graduate school, or who would like to develop their quantitative abilities, should take MATH 215 and MATH 230. Taking additional courses beyond MATH 215 and MATH 230 is highly recommended. (Many economic majors choose to add a mathematics minor or major.) Students may satisfy the mathematics and statistics requirements for economics by taking MATH 221, but this is definitely not recommended for students who plan to attend graduate school.

Political Science

The political science major offers programs of study that lead to careers in government on the city, state or federal level, or in the foreign service. It also opens career paths in local, national and international organizations, the legal profession, lobbying, secondary or university teaching and a wide variety of opportunities to continue your education in graduate school or law school.

The curriculum is structured so that the political science student acquires an understanding of political theory, comparative government, international relations, and political institutions and processes.

The major is designed to develop critical thinking and independent analysis through the study of theory and its practical application. The latter is encouraged through the availability of a wide variety of internships in state and local government agencies in Columbus. Internships are also available in Washington, D.C.

Economics and Political Science Learning Outcomes:

Describe the major fields and theories within the respective disciplines (i.e., political science and economics), the origins of the disciplines, and the contribution of the disciplines in understanding society
Reason logically about and critically evaluate issues in the respective disciplines. Identify key assumptions and understand their importance
Correctly classify relationships according to theoretical models or concepts and clearly identify key parts of an argument.
Use appropriate data (historical or current) to illustrate concepts
Given policy objectives or other desired results, recommend actions
Articulate the moral implications of choices and be reflective
Communicate clearly to different audiences in writing, orally, and with technology