History And Political Science

The courses in history propose to stress the historical and scientific approach; to give the student an understanding of the origin and development of civilization, past and present, that people may be able to evaluate properly present trends; and to prepare for intelligent and active citizenship, for teaching and related professions and for graduate study.

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Political Science

The political science program is designed to offer students an opportunity to examine many of the primary areas of this discipline. Courses acquaint students with methods of analysis and useful resources for studying political structures, thought and behavior. Majors in political science typically pursue careers in law, government service, journalism and teaching.

Requirements described for political science do not apply to students preparing for secondary teaching. Social studies majors should refer to the Social Studies Teaching section below. Pre-law students should consult with the pre-law advisor as early as possible.

 

Social Studies Teaching

To fulfill requirements for teaching social studies at the senior high/middle school level, students must complete specific courses in three teaching fields and in professional education. The required teaching fields are historical perspectives; government and citizenship; and a third area chosen from sociology, economics, and psychology.

In addition to these requirements, students pursuing a teaching major must also meet additional requirements listed in the School of Education section of this catalog.

 

Majors

History
Political Science
Social Studies Teaching

 

Minors

History
Political Science

 

Faculty

J. Douglas Nelson
Professor of Political Science
Director, Center for Public Service
Chair, Department of History
B.A., Linfield College;
M.A., Ph.D., George Washington University [1975]

Brian R. Dirck
Assistant Professor of History
B.A., University of Central Arkansas;
M.A., Rice University;
Ph.D., University of Kansas [1998]

Michael W. Frank
Associate Professor of Political Science
B.A., Northern Illinois University;
Ph.D., University of Illinois [2001]

David T. Murphy
Associate Professor of History
B.S., Southern Illinois University;
M.A., University of Illinois;
Ph.D., University of Illinois [1992]

Jaye Lee Rogers
Instructor of History
B.A., New Mexico State University;
M.A., New Mexico State University;
Ph.D., Union Institute [1996]

Joel D. Shrock
Associate Professor of History
B.S., Ball State University;
M.A., Ball State University;
Ph.D., Miami University [2005]

Date in [] indicates year first appointed to AU full-time faculty.