History-Political Science

The capacity to reflect upon and to practice politics in a thoughtful and substantive way in the present is ultimately impossible without historical understanding of particular places or issues. Similarly, the practice of historical inquiry is continuously informed by questions and concerns arising from our understanding of the present. Students who major in History-Political Science use the approaches of both political science and history to interrogate the relationship between past and present and to cultivate an understanding of enduring moral, social, and political problems as well as a rich appreciation of the diversity and complexity of human experience. Courses also focus on developing intellectual, analytical, and rhetorical skills. Students will work with advisors in both departments to actively shape and develop their focus as they progress through the joint major