Bachelor of Arts in History-Political Science
Historic and civic literacy are critical cornerstones to building sustainable communities in the 21st century. The interdisciplinary History-Political Science major provides the foundation for future leaders in education, law, business, the nonprofit sector, public service, journalism, public policy, and government to successfully connect and apply understandings between historical and political forces that shape our world and polity.
The Bachelor of Arts in History-Political Science provides interdisciplinary study across four thematic areas (Ancient History, Medieval-Early Modern History, US History and Politics, Modern History and Politics) is balanced with targeted expertise as students choose either a History or Political Science track as best suited for their career goals and interests. the interdisciplinary focus of the curriculum deepens understanding and connections between historical and political forces that shape our world.
Students majoring in History-Political Science are required to complete two semesters of foreign language study.
At a Glance
- Emphasizes skills in communication, analytical thinking, evaluating evidence-based problem solving, writing, and research.
- Dynamic, dedicated faculty experts with a wide variety of backgrounds
- Integrated secondary education minor prepares students to teach.
- One-on-one faculty mentoring
- Well-connected network of alumni in local and federal government
- Broad-based understanding of significant historical periods.
- Established Washington Center internship program; students accepted to the program live and intern in Washington, D.C. for a semester
Curriculum
Interdisciplinary study across four thematic areas: Ancient History, Medieval-Early Modern History, US History and Politics, Modern History and Politics History and Secondary Education.
The History-Political Science major balances interdisciplinary study with targeted career focused expertise. Students choose from two concentration areas: History or Political Science as they complete either their HY-PS major or their HY-PS/Secondary Ed major. This allows students to develop targeted skills and knowledge specific to their career goals and interests.
The major in history-political science combined with a minor in secondary education is the basis for a career as a high school teacher of history/political science/social studies. Students who aspire to teach high school take a series of education courses in the secondary education minor, and complete a semester of student teaching in their senior year. This course of study has been approved by the State of Maine Department of Education and allows students to apply for certification as high school teachers. Students from other states should work with their Secondary Education advisor to secure current certification requirements for those states.
Partnership with University of Maine School of Law
Saint Joseph’s College’s partnership with the University of Maine School of Law allows eligible students to earn a bachelor’s degree and law degree in six years. In this accelerated 3 + 3 program, students complete three years of undergraduate work at Saint Joseph’s College followed by three years of law school at Maine School of Law in Portland, Maine.
Some of our faculty
Internships
Recent Internships
• Capitol Hill
• Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project
• Gov. Joseph Brennan Archives
• Representative Jared Golden
Washington D.C. Internship Program
Students accepted to the program live and intern in Washington, D.C. for a semester
![Tyler-Nadeau22-Webprofile Tyler Nadeau '22, history-political science major](https://u2u6s2i9.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/Tyler-Nadeau22-webprofile.jpg)
Tyler Nadeau
![Rachel-Bruns-Political-Science Rachel Bruns, political science major](https://u2u6s2i9.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/Rachel-Bruns-political-science.jpg)
Rachel Bruns
![Will-Hardiman Will Hardiman](https://u2u6s2i9.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/will-hardiman.jpg)
Will Hardiman
![Ray-Mosca Ray Mosca](https://u2u6s2i9.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/ray-mosca.jpg)
Ray Mosca
Alumni
Chelsea Candage
Jeremiah Cottle
Angie Gleason
Career Paths
Education
Law
Business
Non-profits
Public service
Journalism
Public policy
Government
Career Moves
With a Bachelor of Arts in History-Political Science, graduates will be prepared to enter a wide range of professional fields and graduate study programs. A history degree will serve those interested in pursuing careers in government, law, journalism, education, non-profit organizations, as well as careers in teaching, research, public administration, the non-profit sector, journalism, law, international service, affairs or business, government or elective office, and public service.