The Department of Political Science is dedicated to the principles of academic freedom, intellectual honesty, and professional excellence. We expect our faculty, staff, and students to reflect the following values:

Excellence in Research and Teaching

As scholars, we aspire to conduct innovative research that meets the highest standards of analytical and methodological rigor. As teachers, our foremost aim is to empower students through learning as we instill a sense of responsibility for individual intellectual growth. 

Contribution to Public Good

We value education as both a private and public good. In our role as educators, we believe it is important to prepare students not only for their futures as workers, but also as lifelong democratic citizens. Thus, in addition to imparting historical and theoretical knowledge, we strive to instill a love of learning, critical thought, and civic participation. 

Service to Community

We are committed to empowering students to leverage the knowledge and skills they gain in our classrooms to serve the needs of their community and the wider world.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity

We recognize the value of diversity, especially the assortment of values, experiences, and worldviews that emanate from variations in background and culture. The diversity of our students, faculty, and staff is a critical source of innovation, inspiration, and creativity in the learning environment. 

We endeavor to foster an atmosphere conducive to learning, mentorship, and research for all members of the university community. Doing so requires that we be responsive to historical patterns of exclusion and disadvantage that continue to impose barriers to some students’ success.