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Catalog 2012-2013
Department of Government and History
government.gallaudet.edu, history.gallaudet.edu
College of Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Technologies
Dr. Barry Bergen, Chair
Hall Memorial Building, Room S235
This department houses two disciplines and majors: government and history.
Government: Government or political science in the broadest sense is the study of how governments work and how they affect people (and how people affect them) on the local, national, and international levels. Political scientists are concerned with the structures of governments, the decision-making process in governments, the policy governments make, and the cultures in which governments function. Some specific topics that can be studied at Gallaudet include political parties, the legislature, political theory, the presidency, interest groups, civil rights and liberties, the governments of Europe and developing nations, international relations, American foreign policy, and others. The department emphasizes both knowledge in the area of government and current events, and skills in research, communication, and critical thinking.
A government major is often seen as a useful preparation for law and teaching, journalism, federal government service, state and local government, and good citizenship. The skills and knowledge emphasized are useful in many other fields. Washington, D.C., is an ideal place to study politics, and students are helped and encouraged to make extensive use of the city's academic, cultural, and governmental resources. The department also uses the University's work-study program to find work placements that will broaden students classroom experience. Pre-law advising is offered to students who wish to attend law school.
Pre-Law Program: Gallaudet University supports undergraduate and graduate students considering law school through our Pre-Law Program. This program consists of several elements:
- Pre-law advising
- Law-related courses
- Pre-Law Club and activities (speakers, trips)
- Pre-Law Writing Award
- Mock Trial Program
- Pre-law workshops
Undergraduate students participating in this program, which supports preparation for Law School entry, must still select one of the traditional majors offered at Gallaudet; they may also apply for a self-directed major as explained elsewhere in this catalogue.
History: The study of history helps students discover and interpret the innately complex and fascinating past. It broadens and enlightens minds and prepares students to become more active and effective participants in the future. Only an informed awareness of the past can provide the key to understanding what we are today and to influence what we will be tomorrow. Students majoring in history will find many fields open to them. Skills developed from this study, such as organization of diverse facts and opinions, and a clear presentation of conclusions drawn from those facts and opinions, are of fundamental importance in many professions. Researchers, librarians, lawyers, teachers, and others all benefit from the skills acquired through using methods of historical study.
Declaring a Major
Requirements for Admission to a Major in Government or History
The Department of Government and History requires only the signature of the department chair.
Students who wish to major in History must have a 2.0 GPA for admission. Students with a major in History must maintain a 2.0 GPA in History courses with no more than two grades of D+ or lower in major courses.