Political Science
Welcome to the Department of Political Science
The Department of Political Science offers the B.A. with a Major in Political Science, the B.A. with a Major in Human Rights Studies, and a Masters of Public Administration (MPA). Students majoring in political science are taught by an outstanding array of scholar-teachers in areas of inquiry that include American politics, public law, public administration, international relations, comparative politics, public policy, environmental politics, urban politics, political theory and more.
MPA students also enjoy instruction from experienced practitioners in the field of public administration. Our students go on to many of the most prestigious law schools and graduate programs in the country, and enjoy important careers in both the public and private sectors.
The Human Rights Studies program is an integrated program grounded in traditional liberal arts. A multi-disciplined faculty is assembled from the departments or programs of Communication, Criminal Justice Studies, Economics, History, Languages, Philosophy, Political Science, Religious Studies, and Sociology. All are guided by a strong commitment to the dignity of all people.
University of Dayton students traveled to El Paso, Texas, in May 2018 to interview and photograph human rights advocates, community leaders and faith leaders about their commitment to immigration rights work at the U.S.-Mexico border.
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A new book out this month by Joel R. Pruce, University of Dayton assistant professor of human rights, details the evolution of human rights into a mainstream moral cause.
Read more2019 Malawi Practicum Application
Nine-week collaborative research experience in Chilumba, Malawi, from mid-May to mid-July, 2019. Apply by noon, Oct. 26, 2018.
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Work toward the Master of Public Administration as an undergraduate student. Interested? Complete the application form now.
Application Form (pdf)