Program Overview
Students in this program delve deeply into the foundational works of American political thought, exploring influential texts like The Federalist Papers and examining ideas spanning from the Puritan era to the Founding period and the Jeffersonian age. The curriculum also examines pivotal Catholic and Protestant political philosophies, tracing their development from Augustine and Aquinas to the Reformers.
The Political Theory emphasis offers an in-depth study of Niccolò Machiavelli’s political philosophy, closely analyzing his seminal works The Prince and Discourses on Livy. This program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of political ideas within their historical and philosophical contexts.
At the John P. Stead School of Humanities, students are equipped to engage with human culture through a lens of depth, discernment, and biblical clarity. Regardless of their specific field of study, graduates leave with a sharpened ability to critically analyze arts, philosophy, and current events, grounded in a deep understanding of history and Scripture.
Our faculty and staff wholeheartedly affirm our doctrinal statement, which has remained fundamentally unchanged since the institution’s founding. Professors lead small, discussion-driven classes, guiding students through the rich tapestry of civilization’s ideas and philosophies within a biblical framework. We uphold the belief in God’s sovereignty, recognizing His guiding hand in the past, present, and future of human affairs.
Students also benefit from a unique semester-long internship in Washington, D.C., where they gain firsthand experience in governance and access invaluable networking opportunities. Through this program, students trace the key events, individuals, and theories that shaped American political thought. They learn to critically analyze major political works, uncover their core theoretical principles, and apply these principles to practical situations with insight and clarity.