Major
Political Science & History Department
The bachelor’s degree in politics and history at NDMU explores the historical foundations of the political system in America and how that history has led to the societal inequities of class, gender, race, and sexuality that we see today. Classes will be challenged to define what it means to be an American and address the systemic changes needed to create an equitable society.
Student in class using expressive hands during class discussion
Program Location

Features of the Politics & History Program

  • Research – opportunities to actively design and implement research projects
  • Experiential Learning – apply skills of engaged citizenship through a capstone internship
  • Service – emphasis on service for finding collaborative and inclusive solutions to divisive problems
  • Social Responsibility – current topics explored through the lens of history and political impact (identity, class, gender, race, sexuality)

Customize Your Education

At NDMU, our strength is our ability to weave your unique interests into your individual education. Adding a minor to your degree or pursuing an accelerated dual-degree program is a great way to craft an experience that aligns to your aspirations.

Accelerated Dual-Degree Programs

Dual-degree programs offer a unique opportunity to earn multiple degrees in an accelerated format, saving both time and money.

Pathway to Law School

If your ultimate goal is to attend law school, an undergraduate degree in politics and history can provide the foundation of research and writing skills needed to be successful. Our partnership with University of Baltimore School of Law offers an accelerated pathway for qualified students to earn any Bachelor of Arts degree at NDMU and a Juris Doctorate from UB in six years instead of seven.

Four-Year Plan

Below is a sample Program of Study for the Politics & History Major. Students should select courses with the assistance of a faculty advisor.

Fall Spring

First Year
NDMU 100: Perspectives in Education 4 POL 103: Introduction to International Affairs 3
NDMU 100: Lab 0 Scientific Reasoning General Education 3-4
ENG 101: College Writing 3 Foreign Language 3
HIS 228: World History Since 1500 3 Major Elective 3
POL 101: Introduction to Politics 3 General Education Elective 3
Foreign Language 3    

16 credits

15-16 credits

Second Year
POL 217: Civil Participation & Leadership 3 HIS 2XX: US History Since 1865  
Quantitative Reasoning General
Education		 3-4 General Education Courses  
General Education Courses 6 Major Elective  
Major Elective 3    

15 credits

15 credits

Third Year
POL 3XX: Methods in History & Political Research 3 IDS 361: Internship 3-4
General Education Courses 6 General Education Course 3
Major Electives 6 Major Electives 9

15 credits

15-16 credits

Fourth Year
Major/General Electives 15-18 HIS/POL 456: Senior Seminar 3
    Major/General Electives 12-15

15-18 credits

15-18 credits
Professional Program Advising

If you are interested in pursuing a professional program after graduation, NDMU offers specialized advising to help you prepare.

Types of Professional Programs

  • Health Professions (Medical, Dental, Veterinary & More)
  • Law School
  • Pharmacy School
  • Veterinary School

Pre-professional coordinators can help you:

  • Choose a profession that aligns with your interests and goals
  • Select a bachelor’s degree program that will meet required prerequisites to apply to a professional school
  • Monitor your academic progress through in-depth, one-on-one advising sessions
  • Explore experiential learning opportunities and secure internships
  • Connect with alumni who currently work in the field
  • Prepare for the application process

Learn More About Professional Program Advising

http://catalog.ndm.edu/

Research

One of the hallmarks of the rich educational environment at NDMU is the opportunity to participate in research in your field of interest. Our annual Nancy Kreiter Student Research Day provides the perfect forum to showcase your hard work with a formal research presentation to the NDMU community.

Additional Opportunities

Our students have conducted research at a variety of institutions, including:

  • Local and State Government Agencies
  • Local, National, and International Non-Governmental Organizations
  • United Nations
  • Police and Law Enforcement Agencies
  • Supreme Court
  • National Security Agency
  • State Department

Politics & History Careers

Understanding the political system in America and its historical foundations can prepare graduates with a passion for social justice to create positive change through a variety of career opportunities. Examples of potential career paths include:

  • Law
  • Public Service
  • Non-Profit Sector (Foundations, Think Tanks, Non-Governmental Organizations)
  • Policy Analysis
  • Advocacy
  • Journalism
  • Academic Research
  • Teaching