Program Overview

History and Political Science B.A.

The History and Political Science B.A. program at Robert Morris University is a comprehensive and unique degree that specializes in historical analysis and political science. This program is designed to provide students with the tools to professionally impact and help guide decisions. By combining history and political science into a comprehensive program, students gain a deeper understanding of human affairs than either degree could allow on its own.

Program Overview

The History and Political Science degree prepares graduates for careers in law, intelligence analysis, diplomacy and foreign affairs, political campaigns and offices, public policy, data analysis, social work, civil service and administration, urban planning and development, higher and secondary education, and museums, libraries, and archives. Students in this program learn about American politics, law, international affairs, history, and government.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program have completed internships at various institutions, including offices of state representatives and senators, Smithsonian museums, the Heinz History Center, regional law offices, national parks and memorials, and the 911th Air Support Wing (United States Air Force Reserve). Social sciences graduates account for 70% of those admitted to law school and earn an average annual salary of $68,000.

Degree Requirements

The program requires a total of 120 credits, including 39 credits of core courses, 33 credits of major courses, 24 credits of restricted electives, and 12 credits of certificate courses. The core courses include communication skills, economics, humanities, history, sciences, and more. The major courses cover world geography, United States history, world civilizations, introduction to political science, American national government, comparative contemporary political systems, and international relations.

Major Courses

• GEOG1020 World Geography - 3 credits
• HIST1200 United States History II - 3 credits
• HIST1700 World Civilizations I - 3 credits
• HIST1800 World Civilizations II - 3 credits
• POLS1010 Introduction to Political Science - 3 credits
• POLS1020 American National Government - 3 credits
• POLS1030 Comparative Contemporary Political Systems - 3 credits
• POLS1040 International Relations - 3 credits
• HIST4803 or POLS4803 Political Science Practicum - 3 credits
• HIST3900 or POLS3800 or SOSC3800 Social Science Research Methods - 3 credits

Restricted Electives

Students are required to take 24 credits of restricted electives, including:

• HIST3000+ Restricted Elective
• HIST3000+ Restricted Elective
• POLS3000+ Restricted Elective
• POLS3000+ Restricted Elective
• HIST3000+ or POLS3000+ Restricted Elective
• HIST3000+ or POLS3000+ Restricted Elective
• HIST3000+ or POLS3000+ Restricted Elective
• HIST3000+ or POLS3000+ Restricted Elective

Certificate Courses

Students are required to take 12 credits of certificate courses, including:

• HIST3100 American Revolution
• HIST3120 Civil War
• HIST3260 World War II
• HIST3280 Vietnam War

Academic Policies

A cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher is required for graduation. Students must also earn a minimum grade of "C" in each major course.