Department of Politics and Government

Welcome to the Politics and Government Program of Bryan College.

The goal of this program is to introduce students to the virtues and basic values that form the foundation for politics in America, and how such virtues and values are applied in the political and electoral processes of American government.

We honor William Jennings Bryan by taking this approach. William Jennings Bryan's involvement with creationism and the Scopes trial was merely a footnote to a lifelong career in political science and governmental service. Bryan was a two-term member of Congress from Nebraska, Secretary of State in Woodrow Wilson's administration, and was nominated three times as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate.

More important, William Jennings Bryan lived his life for Jesus Christ and His purposes. Thus, Bryan College and the Politics and Government Program provide a consistent testimony to this great American and together build the strongest possible foundation upon which to base a program to prepare students, as disciples of Christ, to challenge the world in which we live and interact.

The Politics and Government major is a unique integration of American History, Philosophy, Economics, Political Science, and Governmental Studies, with supporting courses drawn from Communication Studies. It is an expansion of the Oxford University triad of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, adding the all-important branches of American History and Communication and Governmental Studies, to include the option of participating in governmental internships at local, regional, state, national, and international levels.

It is our sincere hope that you will take up this challenge and join us in preparing to be part of the next generation of America's political leaders.

Sincerely,
Dr. Ronald Petitte
Director, Center for Leadership Initiatives 
Chairman, Department of Politics & Government