Department of History, Political Science and Sociology

Mission

The Department of History, Political Science and Sociology prepares students to understand the people, institutions, and ideas that have shaped societies across time and continue to influence today's world. Rooted in the liberal arts and the Dominican tradition of the search for truth, the department empowers students to think critically, engage thoughtfully, and lead with integrity in service to the common good.

About the Department

The Department of History, Political Science and Sociology explores the forces that shape individuals, communities, governments, and societies. Through the study of history, political systems, social institutions, and human behavior, students develop the critical thinking, research, communication, and analytical skills needed to understand complex issues and create meaningful change.

Grounded in civic engagement and the liberal arts, the department prepares students to become informed citizens, ethical leaders, and engaged professionals. Students examine diverse perspectives, connect historical and contemporary issues, and apply classroom learning through research, internships, community engagement, and experiential learning. Graduates are prepared for careers in government, law, public service, education, nonprofit organizations, advocacy, business, and research, as well as graduate and professional study.

Degrees and Programs

The department offers the following academic programs:

Bachelor’s Degrees 

• Bachelor of Arts in History (Traditional Undergraduate Program)
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Traditional Undergraduate Program)
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (Adult Degree Program and Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Minors 

• History (Traditional Undergraduate Program)
• Political Science (Traditional Undergraduate Program)
• Pre-Law (Adult Degree Program and Traditional Undergraduate Program)
• Sociology (Adult Degree Program and Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Special Opportunities

Pre-Law

Students interested in pursuing law school may complement any major with the Pre-Law minor, which provides a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills valued by legal education and the legal profession. Building upon Albertus Magnus College's liberal arts curriculum and Invitation to Inquiry program, students develop critical thinking, analytical reading, written and oral communication, and quantitative reasoning skills while exploring legal concepts, ethical decision-making, and the foundations of justice. The Pre-Law minor prepares students for success in law school and careers in law, public service, advocacy, business, and related professions.

Teacher Preparation

The History majors satisfies the educational requirements for students pursuing Albertus Magnus College’s undergraduate Initial Teacher Preparation Program leading to the History & Social Studies, 4–12 (026) endorsement.

Experiential Learning

Students connect classroom learning with real-world experience through internships, faculty-mentored research, community engagement, civic participation, and experiential learning opportunities. These high-impact experiences prepare students to investigate complex social and political issues, engage with diverse communities, advocate for justice, and develop the leadership skills needed to make a positive impact in their professions and society.

Department Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of a degree in the department, students will:

• Analyze historical, political, and social issues using disciplinary theories, concepts, and evidence.
• Apply critical thinking, research, and analytical methods to investigate complex questions and contemporary challenges.
• Communicate ideas effectively through written, oral, and evidence-based arguments for academic, professional, and public audiences.
• Evaluate diverse perspectives and demonstrate ethical reasoning when examining historical events, political systems, and social institutions.
• Apply disciplinary knowledge through research, internships, community engagement, or other experiential learning opportunities to promote informed citizenship, civic engagement, and the common good.