Political Science and Economics Department

Department Chair-Postolache

Associate Professors-Lucas, Postolache

Assistant Professor-Abdiah, Claar

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

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 politics, international relations, and political institutions and processes.

The political science 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, with private law firms, with political parties and campaigns, and with non-governmental organizations in and around Columbus.

Political Science Learning Outcomes:

The Political Science major at Capital University prepares students to:

Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of core concepts, leading theories, and key analytical methods used in the fields of American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory.
Describe the contributions that Political Science has made to our understanding of the roles that various societal actors and political institutions play in determining political outcomes at the local, national, and international levels.
Reason logically about, analyze, interpret, and critically evaluate policy issues and political relationships by using appropriate data (qualitative or quantitative) and relevant theoretical models or concepts, while recognizing the implications of diverse perspectives and normative assumptions.
Conduct research on political phenomena using primary and secondary sources to construct and articulate a sustained argument evaluating a theoretical claim against alternative perspectives or interpretations.
Communicate clearly and persuasively about political phenomena to different audiences in writing, orally, and via technology.
Articulate the moral implications of policy choices and political behaviors.
Value civic engagement, appreciate the importance of active citizenship, and actively engage with social and political issues.
Develop knowledge and skills in critical analysis, data fluency, academic writing, oral communication, and intercultural competence that can be applied after graduation in graduate school, in law school, and/or in meaningful career opportunities both inside and outside the world of politics.