The College of Arts and Sciences: Politics and Law

Today’s world is shaped by political and legal questions and decisions. The role of government has expanded to encompass economic, social, and moral realms.  In addition, global economies, cultures, and political systems are now affected by international challenges and opportunities.

For more information about the Politcs and Law program, or Pre-law at Bryant, contact:

Andrea Boggio
Assistant Professor of Legal Studies
Department of History and Social Sciences
aboggio@bryant.edu

Bachelor of Arts with a major in Politics and Law

The Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Politics and Law unites the complementary disciplines of Political Science and Legal Studies. Students majoring in Politics and Law develop an understanding of both domestic and foreign political and judicial systems. They learn about other countries’ politics and societies, examine global interactions, and explore ethical and intellectual debates that shape personal and societal choices.

The Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Law includes six required courses. In the Political Science field, students take one course from each of three of the discipline’s major subfields: American politics, comparative politics (examining politics outside of the United States), and international politics. From Legal Studies, the three required courses introduce students to a variety of legal issues, but also provide insights into the ways that law is shaped by cultural forces, social change, intellectual debate, and historical developments.

Politics and Law students benefit from the synergy between liberal arts and business in considering issues such as governmental social policies, tax policy, labor law, trade policy, environmental regulation, and intellectual property rights that span multiple academic disciplines.

Download a .pdf of the curriculum requirements

In addition to the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements, students in the Politics and Law major must complete:

• Introduction to Global Politics or Honors: Politics of the Global System
• Government and Society in America or Honors: Contemporary American Politics
• Government and Citizens Around the Globe
• Western Legal Traditions
• Civil Rights and Liberties
• Law and Society
• Three electives from Political Science and Legal Studies (at least one course at the 400-level)
• Seminar in Politics and Law

For complete course descriptions, please refer to the course catalog. Courses are listed in alphabetical order.

Opportunities After Graduation

The study of Political Science and Legal Studies develops valuable skills in analytic thinking, decision-making, and communication.  Professional opportunities are available in a range of careers, including:

• Government service
• Business
• Law
• Education
• Nonprofit sector
• Journalism
• Policy Analyst

Students are also well-prepared to pursue advanced study in law or other fields such as international relations, political science, or public administration.

Faculty

The Politics and Law faculty include:

John W. Dietrich, PhD
Assistant Professor and Political Science Coordinator
Department of History and Social Sciences
jdietric@bryant.edu