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Department of History, Philosophy, Political Science & Economics

From the Golden Age to Global Markets

The Department of History, Philosophy, Political Science, and Economics is home to six programs: History, Political Science, Law and Society, International Studies, Economics, and Philosophy. It also oversees the 3+3 Law program. Graduates of our programs have a wide variety of opportunities to work in government, law, or for nonprofit or for-profit organizations.

The History major is designed to give students both a general knowledge of American and world history and the necessary skills to understand and construct a historical argument. History students have an active Historical Society that has sponsored a film festival, a Renaissance Fair, and trips to sites of historical interest.

The Political Science major provides its graduates with the analytical skills necessary to understand political processes in the United States as well as in other states in the global community.

The interdisciplinary Law and Society major offers an exciting course of study for students interested in investigating the origins, actors, institutional frameworks, cultural development, and theoretical foundations of law and justice as they relate to society.

International Studies promotes global understanding and lifelong learning through an international, intercultural, and interdisciplinary curriculum. It fosters understanding of world societies and global issues from many different disciplinary perspectives.

The Economics major represents different schools of economic thought and also a very wide variety of research and teaching interests. Those fields of interest include urban economics, the broad role of government in the economy, the intersection of politics and economics, the economics of sports, international and regional-urban economics, and government participation in markets.

The study of Philosophy helps develop our critical and analytical capacities, our ability to understand what we read, and our ability to argue and persuade. It helps us understand, appreciate, and respect other points of view.

Students from a variety of majors may choose to enroll in The Washington Semester where they may study and intern in the nation’s capitol. Participation in the University's nationally-recognized Polling Institute offers another opportunity to learn about politics and the electoral process.

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First year honors students on the University Commons rooftop terrace

Western New England University Celebrates 24th Annual Honors Program with Presidential Reception

Western New England University celebrated its new incoming class of Honors Program students with it’s 24th annual presidential reception. WNE President Robert E. Johnson welcomed the Class of 2027 to this distinguished program, emphasizing academic rigor and leadership opportunities.

University News, Arts and Sciences
Study Abroad students in Pompeii

WNE Students/Staff Experience Life-Changing Journey in Sorrento, Italy

Western New England University students and staff embarked on a transformative journey to Sorrento, Italy, as part of the Sorrento Study Abroad program. This immersive experience included courses in Business Communication and Italian Culture, with enriching activities like gelato-making and tours of historic sites, offering students insights into Italian culture and global business practices.

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Student's final recommendations presentation to BEAR Market Necessities

Students Engage in Meaningful Project and Learn with a Purpose

WNE faculty and students collaborate to enhance BEAR Necessities Market, aiding food-insecure students with innovative systems and support.

University News, Arts and Sciences