The Department of Political Science, Philosophy and Religion is comprised of three distinct disciplines with majors in Political Science and Philosophy; and minors in Political Science, Philosophy, and Religion. The department also maintains a 3+3 program with Mizzou Law School and offers an MPA degree with an accelerated option.
Political Science
We are accomplished teacher-scholar political scientists representing major fields of the discipline: American Government, Comparative Government, International Politics, Political Theory, and Public Administration. We are very involved in student affairs. The faculty actively advise a variety of diverse clubs and organizations, and all participate in sponsored forums, campus-community events, and outreach service. We sponsor several organizations, including Model United Nations, the Iota Rho Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, and Law Society & Politics. We also host the annual Constitution Day celebration and conduct campus forums on political events of note.
Philosophy
Philosophy is the critical examination of the most fundamental questions humans ask. These questions are basic to serious study in any field. While everyone has beliefs about these matters, the goal of philosophy is to help students improve their consideration of issues by examining the reasons they and others have for thinking as they do.
While the field prepares students well for careers in politics, law, and policy, the greatest benefit of the coursework is learning essential workforce skills such as critical thinking, communication, and teamwork.
Graduate Studies
Our MPA (Master of Public Administration) program prepares students for a career in government, policy, communications, international affairs, and nonprofit management. The critical thinking and writing skills, strategic thinking, and basic research skills MPA students learn can enhance a career that is already underway, or provide a basis for a career path for a recent graduate. The program is also offered online for students who live in other parts of the country.
The accelerated option allows undergraduate students to earn graduate credit. It speeds up their education so that they can learn the same basic skills available in both the undergraduate program and the more advanced training of the MPA program – and to gain those skills in less time than through a traditional course of study.
Academic Programs
We have an array of different majors and minors in the Department of Political Science, Philosophy, & Religion to choose from. Find the one that interests you and begin your journey!
About the Department of Political Science, Philosophy & Religion
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Jefferson City Legislative Internship
Southeast students are highly sought after by legislators in Missouri’s Capitol for the legislative internship experience. The program, while giving invaluable experience to students, can also lead to a career in politics or policy making. Many former interns have gone on to government or campaign employment following their internship experience. -
Career Services
Career Services assists students and alumni with major and career exploration, internship strategizing, career planning, and graduate school preparation. Throughout the academic year, we offer a variety of career workshops and events as well as career fairs designed to connect students with prospective employers. -
Pre-Law Collaboration with Mizzou
We now offer a new career pathway in partnership with the University of Missouri School of Law that will save students one year of undergraduate tuition and give them a head start on achieving their career goals in the legal profession. At the completion of their first year of law school, students will be awarded a bachelor’s degree from Southeast. Instead of taking seven years to complete both degrees, students should be able to complete both in six years.
Expert Faculty
Our experienced faculty work closely with students to achieve their academic goals. With small class sizes, students will receive hands-on, experiential learning tactics in real-world situations. Our faculty care deeply about the success of their students, and our departmental learning outcomes are as impressive as the professors themselves.
“After graduating from SEMO, I commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. I attended SLU law, and then proceeded on to active duty. While on active duty, I spent the majority of my time as a criminal defense attorney. Once I leave the Marine Corps, I will transition to the Marine Corps reserves, and will begin civilian employment with the Department of Justice.”
— Geoffrey Ogden, '11, Political Science and History, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, United States Attorney's Office
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701