Alumni
The Department of Political Science has an extensive network of alumni placed in a diverse array of professional fields as well as locations. Our students work in government, politics, law (public and private), advocacy, non-profits, business/banking, the military, international affairs, and teaching (at the middle/high school, community college, and university level). Our students are successful and leaders in their respective fields and professions. We are also ongoing developing our alumni network via social networking - in particular Linked In and Facebook - join via the main web page!
Message from two of our alums
Michelle Forsell, '99; JD Villanova, 2003
"West Chester's Political Science Department offers a wide array of subject matter. This includes courses in international relations, United States politics, racial/ethnic politics, political philosophy, public opinion, and research methodology. The core of the department familiarizes students with every aspect of politics.
Once the core is completed, students have the opportunity to focus on International Relations, Public Management, or to continue with a general concentration. Whichever concentration is chosen, the experience is invaluable. Professors in this department are all very knowledgeable. Furthermore, each one has a different specialty that adds to the diversity of the learning experience.
However, there are a lot of opportunities in this department for students. The Political Science Club is an outlet for students to discuss politics as well as a place for special speakers to come and discuss a variety of issues with students. Also, there is the Pre-law Society for anyone interested in law. This organization serves as guidance for anyone contemplating law school. Special speakers include lawyers, law school students, and others knowledgeable in the law.
Another opportunity available to students is to conduct hands-on research using research methods learned in the classroom by working in the department's Research Center. This allows students to see concretely how relevant classroom material is to real life. Also, it allows students to perfect their skills before going out in the workplace. In this sense, this department offers much more than classroom instruction."
Dan Blomquist, 2008 ; MA University of Pittsburgh, International Security Studies and Counter-Terrorism
"If you're looking for dynamic course offerings, academically diverse faculty, and an opportunity to build a solid foundation in international political interactions or domestic political systems, the Political Science Department at West Chester University is a perfect fit for you. The diverse academic background of the faculty allows the department to offer a plethora of courses focused on all geographic corners of the world as well as the key domestic policy debates and institutional battles of Washington D.C. or Harrisburg, PA. Whether you are interested in the politics of Africa, the geo-political consequences of oil dependency, or the future of health care policy or urban economic development, the department offers courses to fulfill your curiosities and further your understanding. If you are unsure of your specific interests, the professors in the department consistently demonstrate their commitment to helping students focus on areas that will be beneficial and interesting to students' academic and professional careers.
After receiving my B.A. in Political Science: International Relations, I found myself well prepared and well positioned to excel at the graduate level. As a testament to the professional preparation that I received from Political Science professors at WCU, I am now attending the University of Pittsburgh's Graduate School for Public and International Affairs, pursuing a Master's Degree in Security and Intelligence Studies. Now knowing what to expect at such a prestigious program, I soon discovered that the foundation I received at WCU put me in a position to excel at the next level. The successes I have achieved at the graduate level can be attributed, in large part, to the outstanding professionalism, knowledge, and support of the faculty and staff at WCU's Political Science Department."