The mission of the Department of Political Science of the University of Perugia is to study politics in all its different aspects and developments. This research area calls for a plurality of approaches, from political science to history, sociology, law, economics and linguistics. It is through the dialogue and effective interaction between these disciplinary fields that politics can be interpreted and acted upon thanks to the theoretical or practical contribution each of them can offer. The Department has a strong commitment to local communities, for instance it instituted one of the first School for Social Workers in Italy, and it also has an international vocation, with a long tradition of welcoming foreign students and scholars.
The Department of Political Science is part of a network of similar institutions in Europe. With regard to the object of their studies, the political sciences concern themselves with the transformations of contemporary societies as well as of international relations, offering research, data and tools which contribute to their interpretation and governance. In relation to its methodology, the Department promotes an interdisciplinary approach, through research teams working dynamically and non-exclusively on specific topics.
Research feeds into quality teaching, while, in its turn, teaching stimulates research. Students can enjoy the added value of approaching the political sciences through a multidisciplinary approach, choosing from three undergraduate programs, four graduate programs, and a PhD program in Legality, Political Cultures and Democracy.
To foster research and teaching activities, the Department promotes the participation of its faculty to international research programs and promotes international exchanges of students and teachers, both within the Erasmus network and with universities outside Europe.
In consideration of the current historical context, the Department encourages collaborations with social bodies, to secure funding and enter into a dialogue with professionals who can promote the development of specifically designed research. Finally, the Department values relationships with the third sector, social cooperatives, non-profit organizations, NGOs, public institutions (at international, national and local level), private institutions (companies, banks, foundations, etc.), the unions and the media, working together to educate a new and innovative generation of students.