The Political Science Department offers an accelerated public affairs program for political science majors. In three years, students must complete 108 hours toward a liberal arts educational program. Students will satisfy the requirements of the core curriculum (60 hours), minor (18 hours), and major (36 hours). Students enroll in a graduate program of public affairs during the senior year. After successfully completing 21 hours of graduate school courses, the student receives a B.A. degree from Xavier.
In order to be eligible for this program, a student must average 17 hours a semester for three years (summer school courses may supplement this average), maintain a 3.0 grade point average, and register an intent to pursue the accelerated program with the Head of the Political Science Department. Students must avoid taking free electives as well as electives in the major to fulfill the objectives of the accelerated program. Although a student may select any minor that will enhance a public affairs specialization, the Public Administration minor is highly recommended for successful completion of a graduate program in public affairs.
This program does not guarantee entry into a public affairs program. The admissions process and financial assistance are solely the responsibility of the student. The student interested in universities that accept applicants on an accelerated basis should see the Department Head.
Students pursue careers in public affairs with the idea of becoming effective leaders and managers in public, non-profit, and private organizations. These include city, state, and federal government agencies; companies and faith-based organizations providing social services; and charities and philanthropies. Typically, students pursue master’s degrees in public administration, public policy, urban and regional planning, and non-profit management.
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