Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Political Science
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm excited to be talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in political science and the lead instructor for the new Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Political Science. Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about this course and what inspired its creation? GUEST: Thanks for having me! The Inclusive Political Science certificate is designed to help professionals, policymakers, and activists address power imbalances within political systems. I've seen firsthand how important it is to have diverse perspectives in decision-making processes, and this program aims to equip students with the skills to promote inclusivity and social justice. HOST: That sounds fascinating! Could you share some current trends in the field that are relevant to this course? GUEST: Absolutely. One trend is the increasing recognition of the importance of intersectionality in political science. This approach acknowledges how different forms of discrimination can intersect and impact individuals in unique ways. Our course dives deep into this topic, helping students understand and address these complexities. HOST: Interesting. Have you encountered any challenges in teaching or learning about inclusive political science? GUEST: Yes, one challenge is helping students unlearn biases they might not even be aware they have. It's crucial to create a safe and open environment where students can engage in honest discussions about power, privilege, and oppression. We use case studies and collaborative projects to facilitate these conversations and promote a better understanding of DEI principles. HOST: As we look to the future, what do you envision for the role of inclusive political science in shaping societies and policies? GUEST: I believe inclusive political science will play a vital role in creating more equitable societies. As we continue to grapple with issues like systemic racism, gender inequality, and social injustice, it's essential that we have experts who can analyze and address these power imbalances. Our certificate program aims to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills they need to drive meaningful change. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you for sharing your insights and for the work you're doing to promote inclusive political science. We're excited to see the positive impact this course will have on the field and the lives of its students. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure discussing our new program, and I hope your listeners will consider joining us in transforming their understanding of politics and contributing to a more inclusive world.
