Launch Your Political Career
The Department of Political Science at Tougaloo College is a launchpad for future leaders, policymakers, and changemakers! Our goal is to prepare scholars for meaningful careers in government, law, public policy, advocacy, and beyond. We achieve this goal by combining rigorous academic training with hands-on practical experience, ensuring our graduates are well-versed in theory and equipped with the skills, networks, and confidence to lead.
Students can expect lectures about the paradigms of politics and public policy and a myriad of opportunities to experience student-led research and community advocacy programming, projects, events, and initiatives. Whether it's interning or participating in Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, engaging in educational or criminal justice equity focus groups, completing food environment assessments in the MS Delta, working in a government agency or courtroom, or conducting policy analysis, our students graduate with real-world experience that sets them apart and enables them to continue demonstrating their knowledge and skillsets when it's time to spread their Eagle wings.
Why Political Science?
Why Choose Political Science at Tougaloo?
- Personalized mentorship and career guidance
- Internships and hands-on policy experience
- Fast-track pathways to law school, public service, and government careers
What Can You Do With This Major?
- Law school or graduate programs in political science, public policy, and international affairs
- Careers in government agencies, nonprofit leadership, legislative affairs, and diplomacy
- Political consulting, advocacy, lobbying, and community organizing
- Research and policy analysis in think tanks, media, and corporate sectors
What We Offer:
With a commitment to mentorship, student success, and timely graduation, ensuring that our scholars are prepared for law school, graduate programs, or the workforce and equipped to make an impact.
The Department offers multiple pathways tailored to student's individual career goals:
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS: Political Science Major
If you're passionate about how government works, policies are made, and how to create change, the Political Science major is the right fit for you! This Program gives students a deep understanding of political and legal systems, politics, governance, and policymaking while sharpening their critical research, analytical, and leadership skills in law, advocacy, and public service.
This foundational course introduces students to the core concepts, methods, and major subfields within the discipline of political science. Emphasis is placed on understanding the structures, functions, and processes of political systems; the role of institutions and behavior; and the theoretical approaches that guide political inquiry. Students will engage critically with topics such as governance, power, political ideologies, comparative politics, public policy, and international relations.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This course covers the formation and development of the U.S. national government, including its politics, organization, powers, and citizenship practices. Students analyze ideals, institutions, and outcomes of American democracy with attention to cultural diversity, civil rights, political participation, and more.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This course analyzes international politics and elements of national power and cooperation, addressing key challenges in international security and post-war global issues.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This course equips students with research design, analysis, and critical thinking skills in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Students will develop a research proposal and gain practical experience through assignments.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This course explores contemporary political philosophy with a focus on major debates including liberalism, libertarianism, feminism, and multiculturalism. Students engage with foundational texts to understand the evolving nature of political thought.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Course description coming soon.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Course description coming soon.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This introductory course develops fundamental skills in statistical analysis and data interpretation, using standard software in a weekly lab session. Required for all School of Social Sciences majors.
Prerequisite: MAT 103, MAT 106, or equivalent with “C” average.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
*Student must satisfy all general education requirements.
Course Descriptions: Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program, Pre-Law Minor
Required Courses
This course introduces students to the foundational principles of the American legal system, legal method, and analytical reasoning. Students examine the judiciary, sources of law, statutory interpretation, and legal construction. Emphasis is placed on reading judicial opinions, briefing cases, and applying rules to novel scenarios.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
A continuation of POL 345, this course introduces substantive law topics including torts, contracts, property, and criminal law through case method analysis and Socratic dialogue.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisite: POL 345
This course provides an overview of core civil law subjects—contracts, property, and torts—while teaching legal reasoning, terminology, and case synthesis.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisite: POL 345
Focuses on topics from the MBE and MEE, such as evidence, civil procedure, and constitutional law. Includes practice exams, diagnostic assessments, and test-taking strategies.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisites: POL 345, POL 347
Explores the Bill of Rights and its application in criminal law and procedure. Covers theories like originalism and living constitutionalism within the context of mass incarceration and civil liberties.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisite: POL 345
Teaches legal research and writing skills including case briefs, client letters, and proper citation using The Bluebook. Students learn how to analyze and write with legal precision.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisite: POL 346
This capstone course prepares students for law school writing assignments including predictive memos and persuasive briefs, with emphasis on editing, peer review, and legal argumentation.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisite: POL 435
Encouraged Courses
Examines the U.S. Constitution through landmark cases, emphasizing federalism, judicial review, and the evolving balance of power. Special focus is given to civil rights and marginalized populations.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Introduces LSAT strategies and provides a comprehensive overview of the law school admissions process including personal statements, diversity essays, and ABA accreditation.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Course Descriptions: Eric H. Holder Jr. Public Policy Program, Public Policy and Administration Minor
Required Courses
This practicum course gives students hands-on experience applying public policy concepts in real-world settings. It serves as a foundational professional development course for students in the Public Policy and Administration minor.
CREDIT: TWO SEMESTER HOURS
Prerequisites: POL 112 and POL 315
A continuation of Practicum I, this course further strengthens students’ ability to apply public policy frameworks in professional settings, building on previous research and statistical training.
CREDIT: ONE SEMESTER HOUR
Prerequisite: PPA 210
This course explores the meaning, evolution, and significance of public administration. Students examine topics such as bureaucracy, public leadership, intergovernmental relations, and public finance. Ideal for students pursuing careers in public service.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This comprehensive course introduces students to the full policy cycle, from agenda setting to evaluation. It includes critical areas such as education, health, labor, and the environment, using case studies to deepen policy analysis and advocacy skills.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Focuses on legal frameworks and public policy responses related to emergency management and disaster preparedness, including FEMA guidelines and constitutional authority.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Encouraged Courses
This foundational course introduces core political science concepts including governance, ideologies, public policy, and international relations, preparing students for advanced study in the discipline.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
This rotating topics course explores emerging issues and methodologies in political science—such as AI and politics, global movements, climate justice, and constitutional crises—through in-depth research and discussion.
CREDIT: THREE SEMESTER HOURS
Program Contacts
Meet the dedicated faculty and staff who serve as key contacts for the Political Science Department at Tougaloo College. From academic guidance to administrative support, these individuals are here to help you navigate your educational journey and prepare for careers in government, law, public service, and beyond.
Lawren M. Long, Ph.D.
Interim Chair, Political Science Department
Assistant Professor of Political Science
Ms. Ida Guice
Executive Assistant
Division of Social Sciences
Adjunct Faculty
Professor Jacorius Liner
Adjunct Instructor
Political Science & Public Policy and Administration
Professor Tracey Minor
Adjunct Instructor
Political Science & Public Policy and Administration
Ready to Lead and Make Change?
Step into a future where your voice shapes policy, advances justice, and empowers communities. Join the Political Science program at Tougaloo College and start building the tools to lead, advocate, and make an impact—locally and globally.