History and Political Science
The Department of History, Political Science, and International Studies, seeks to help students on their path to enjoying an intellectually rich life, a successful career, and providing service to others. The study of history and politics is essential to understanding American society and government and our relationships with diverse communities around the globe. This knowledge is essential for students to understand the realities of the world that they were born into, the values that they inherit and adopt, and the planet that they will help to make. The department helps to promote critical skills in reading and thinking to improve students’ written and spoken communication. The department is committed to ensuring that all of its majors are prepared to handle the challenges they will face in their careers, whether their training is in political science, international studies, law, history, historical communications, or secondary education.
Announcement
By state law, social studies will replace citizenship education beginning in fall, 2009. LVC's program is in compliance with the new requirements. Students who have already begun citizenship education can complete it, provided they complete ALL requirements by Jan 1, 2013.
About History
By examining human behavior in the past, the study of history can help us better understand ourselves and others. As a student of history you will learn how to gather and analyze information and present your conclusions in clear, concise language.
An undergraduate degree in history can lead to a career in teaching at the college or high school level, law, government, politics, the ministry, museums and libraries, journalism or editing, historical societies and archives, communications or a number of other professions. Many students participate in internships as part of their program. Students may also minor in history.
The department also offers one of the few programs in historical communications in the country. This unique program allows students to combine study of history and courses in communications such as journalism, editing, radio or television, and an internship. This major is particularly suited for students who want to work in fields such as communications, the media, or journalism.
About Political Science
Political scientists study government institutions and the political systems related to them. Students who major in political science take courses to give them a thorough understanding of the American political system, the political systems of other nations, and international politics. Twenty-four of the 39 credits in this major must be taken in core requirements and the other consist of electives. Political science majors have gone on to careers in law, politics, high school teaching, and government service.
At Lebanon Valley College, you can earn a bachelor of arts in political science. This degree program is oriented to the study of government and politics, with a particular interest in the political behavior of individuals, groups, and institutions. It also emphasizes an understanding of public policy processes in the domestic and international fields. The program is designed to provide a sound knowledge of essential principles and problems within a broad liberal arts education. It seeks to enhance the student's ability to analyze politics and to develop his or her values with respect to politics and government. Careers in political science are bridges to a wide variety of exciting and rewarding careers. A minor in political science is also available.