The Department of Politics and Government at Illinois State University, known for its student-centered, academic rigor, and intellectually diverse programs. Since its founding, more than half a century ago, this Department is committed to preparing our students to be the leaders of the future - in research, teaching and public service.
To achieve this goal, this Department provides high quality education at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Two majors – Political Science and Legal Studies – are provided at the undergraduate level. Multiple sequences including Public Service, Global Politics and Culture, and Applied Community and Economic Development, are offered in the graduate program. In addition to their strong commitment to teaching, our faculty have engaged in cutting-edge research on questions that are of vital importance to the society and the world. Through such rigorous programs, our alumni have distinguished themselves in local, state, and federal governments, in the legal system, in academic circles, and in private industries.
The Politics and Government Excellence Fund is used to help support activities of the Department. The fund sponsors student travel to professional conferences, supports student participation in study abroad activities, help bringing speakers to campus and other events that are open to students, alumni, faculty/staff, and to the public.
The Pre-Law Program Fund is used to support the activities and learning of students interested in law school. The fund supports students from all departments and schools across the university. It is used to help bring speakers to campus, host an annual law fair, and travel to Chicago each year to visit law schools.
The Hibbert R. Roberts Teaching Excellence Recognition Award is used to recognize a full-time faculty member of the Department with three or more academic years of service at Illinois State University. This award is given to a faculty member who has inspired students to achieve their full learning potential in and outside of the classroom.
