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The
mission and objectives of the Political Science/Planning Department are
directly related to those of West Georgia and the College of Arts &
Sciences. First, political science and planning make a major contribution
to the student's appreciation of the skills and knowledge necessary to
be better persons and citizens in our complex, culturally diverse global
society. Basic knowledge of governmental processes is essential
to good citizenship and a well-rounded education. Each of us must
gain this knowledge so that we can participate in an informed manner in
the making of governmental decisions. Political science is
the study of governments and governing procedures, focusing upon governments
of sovereign states, their sub-units, international entities, and the
theories and philosophies on which these states rest. It is more
than just the study of politics and government. Because politics
is all pervasive and affects the entire range of human behavior, it must
be thoroughly understood. Planning aims to achieve orderly growth,
assisting local governments and bringing citizens into the process within
their communities.
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Both
the A. B. and B. S. programs prepare students to enter professional fields
or graduate studies, and both provide students with useful skills that
will assist them in their journey through life. The A. B. degree is especially
useful for students who are interested in international political issues.
They become proficient in a foreign language and minor in a related field
of study. The B.S. degree emphasizes technical knowledge and specialization
in professional training. Political theory and political
practice are frequently joined. It is not unusual for political
scientists and planners to put into practice what they learn about politics,
government, and community growth. Many career opportunities
are open to political science majors: business, law, teaching, government
service and journalism. Planning is a rapidly growing field with
job opportunities in public and private agencies. The M. P. A. degree
prepares students to enter public employment or enhances the skills and
knowledge of those already in government or nonprofit positions.
Some go on for further study in doctoral programs. The M. S. in
Rural and Small Town Planning provides graduates with the necessary technical
skills and theory to analyze the critical economic, social, geographic
and environmental issues related to growth, change and the quality of
life so that they can be employed in public or private agencies.
Departmental courses are regularly offered at Newnan and other off-campus
locations.
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The
faculty members are dedicated to excellent teaching and are engaged in
research and scholarly pursuits. They have regularly received awards
for teaching and advising excellence. They have reviewed books in
their field for publication. They have achieved an excellent record of
publishing their research findings as refereed articles, monographs and
books and presenting them at international, national and regional
conferences in their fields. A national quarterly research journal
was housed in the department for seven years. Faculty serve on editorial
boards of several research journals and have been officers in numerous
professional associations. Moreover, through consultation and workshops
under the auspices of the proposed Center for Public Service, the faculty
will provide assistance to local governments and non-profit organizations
in the region to improve their ability to prepare comprehensive plans
and to deliver services to citizens.
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Departmental
faculty members regularly teach courses to students in the Advanced Academy
and Honors College. Dr. Don Wagner, who heads these programs, is a tenured
member of the department. Students are required to write research
papers in the upper division and graduate courses. Several students
have competed to present their findings at Big Night or at regional conferences
in their respective fields. Furthermore, departmental faculty have
participated in the creation of the Freshman Center, have served as advisors
at the Center, have been Advisors to Student Mentors, have attended advising
workshops, have participated in the Student Retention Committee and have
attended a national conference on Student Retention.
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