In the Community
Community engagement is at the heart of the Department of Political Science. Our courses and programs train students to participate in the political areas at all levels. Courses include discussion of current policy issues, guest speakers, field trips, placements with community organizations, field research, and simulations of local, state, national and international policy-making bodies. Our faculty and majors are active in their communities and on the national and global stages.
Our graduates have been elected as Mayor and to the City Council, state legislature, and Congress. They also play leadership roles in non-governmental organizations, participate in campaigns, and work to better their communities. What’s more, our graduates never forget their roots. They return often to the Department to share their experiences and inspire future generations of activists and policy makers.
The William H. Bates Center for Public Affairs
The Bates Center for Public Affairs at Salem State College, established in 1969 in memory of the late Congressman William H. Bates, is housed in the Department of Political Science. The Bates Center sponsors a range of activities including lectures and forums, field trips, internships, and other public activities that seek to bring together the campus and the community. Policy roundtables last year featured discussions on the 2008 elections, Middle East politics, and the economic crisis. Upcoming roundtables will be held on climate change, health policy, and Russia/U.S. relations.
Political Science Academy
The Political Science Academy (PSA) is the Salem State College student organization for Political Science majors and minors. PSA seeks to promote political awareness and engagement. In the 2008 Election, PSA members actively worked with the Student Government Association to increase voter registration and to turn students out to vote.
POL520 Internship in Politics
Political Science majors are required to either complete an internship or directed study in order to graduate. The Internship in Politics provides extensive and valuable political experiences. Internship placements have included the offices of local elected officials, state legislators, state agencies, courts, law firms, political campaigns, and on-governmental organizations. The Department of Political Science is guaranteed one internship slot in U.S. Senator John Kerry's Washington office every year.