Combine the study of the classics of Western political thought with rigorous exploration
of American politics and international affairs.
The twin missions of the Department of Politics are to teach students to examine politics
from the perspective of political philosophy and to educate its students for leadership
in public affairs. Prepare for a career in law, journalism, business, government,
or teaching through a concentrated course of study in political philosophy and contemporary
politics. Develop and solidify your capacity for truly independent and rigorous thinking
about political, social, and moral questions.
Focus on the great themes and issues of political thought and experience.
"I applied to the Politics program because it is one of the few in which students
have the opportunity to thoroughly explore political theory. I have grown immensely
during my time at UD, discovering the philosophic roots of politics and encountering
the various ideas that have shaped the world."
-Anna Dean, IPS grad student
The graduate curriculum ranges from the Greek polis through the great Catholic thinkers
of the Middle Ages to the politics of contemporary liberal democracies. Master the
most rewarding political works of the Western tradition and the American experiment
in self-government while considering the great themes and issues of political thought
and experience: justice, equality, liberty, morality, religion, and human nature.
Many of the courses characteristic of the program involve a close reading of the texts
of the Great Tradition of discourse on political order.
Complete the program at your own pace.
The program is designed to enable the student to complete its requirements in a year
of full-time study if he so desires. Summer school courses are sometimes offered and
may be of particular interest to part-time students.
