As individual communities and as a nation, we are defined by the freedoms and liberties provided to us by our laws, our public policies and by the Constitution. Butler University's Department of Political Science encourages the advancement of community, national and global politics by preparing students to become active participants and leaders in these arenas.

The department attempts to help students understand the challenges in all political realms through an array of innovative instructional approaches. In-class simulations call upon students to put themselves in the shoes of political actors. "Conflict dramas" and role-playing are used to teach and learn conflict analysis and mediation skills, while service-learning courses blend theory with practice through academically linked community service.

Additionally, students are able to apply classroom theory to a political science apprenticeship program, in which students work closely with a faculty mentor on teaching or research. The program is available through the academic year and includes a stipend. The Butler Summer Institute, an eight-week program that allows students to work closely with a faculty mentor to design an independent project, is a second research opportunity. Students may then choose to present their research and results at Butler's Undergraduate Research Conference, an annual event that attracts approximately 500 students from around the Midwest.