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.
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
