The Political Science Department at Augustana College is known as the Government and International Affairs Department. This name conveys our belief that the proper analysis of politics includes (but goes well beyond) the "scientific" approach. Courses are taught in the liberal arts tradition, with opportunities for practical internship experiences. The department emphasizes advising regarding post-graduate and professional opportunities in the major.

The Government and International Affairs Department offers courses covering the key fields in the discipline of political science, including American politics, political philosophy, methodology, public administration, law, comparative politics and international relations.

Courses in government and international affairs are designed to:

• provide students with a deeper understanding of political life in the United States, within different countries and among countries;
• develop the intellectual tools of inquiry, analysis and critical judgment necessary for employment in the areas of government, law, journalism, and business and required for advanced graduate study; and
• broaden the students’ perspective of civil society and of the rights and obligations of responsible citizenship.