College of Liberal & Applied Arts

Department of Government

  • SFA Department of Government

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Welcome to the 
Department of Government

The political institutions, policies, behaviors and beliefs that govern our world are at the core of an education in government. At SFA, you have the opportunity to pursue academic excellence and prepare for a career in criminal justice, political science, public administration, pre-law or in our certified public manager program.

Faculty-led trip to Ghana
May 12-27, 2025

Earn credits for your courses while on the trip!

Application deadline: Dec. 1, 2024

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Areas of Study

Specialty Programs

The Department of Government also offers two key specialty programs. Students can take advantage of pre-law courses or a pre-law minor. In addition, we offer a highly regarded certified public manager program.

Pre-Law Certified Public Manager

  • LUMBERJACKS MAKE A MODEL TEAM

    Students from SFA’s European Union Team tied for fourth place at the 2019 Midwest Model European Union Competition in. The team represented the country of Estonia against 21 teams from 17 other universities.

    The competition allows students to immerse themselves in the policies and procedures of the EU while working with students from across the U.S. to debate and discuss issues related to the EU. Model EU also promotes awareness and understanding of the union and its role in the world.

    SFA's European Union Team

    Pictured, left to right, Parker Lambes, Aaron Kelley, Taylor Tyson, Morgan Moya, John Parks and Daniel Greco.

  • CROSSING DISCIPLINES

    Decades before being named chair of SFA’s Department of Government, Dr. Kwame Antwi-Boasiako began a career in broadcasting that would lead him down a meandering and versatile career path. After attending the Ghana Institute of Journalism, Antwi-Boasiako disc jockeyed and worked as a sports commentator before moving to America and receiving his doctoral degree in public administration. The diversity of his professional and educational background continues to lend itself to the depth of knowledge he shares in the classroom.

    Dr. Kwame Antwi-Boasiako

    Dr. Kwame Antwi-Boasiako

  • A Foundation to Succeed in Law Enforcement

    Whitney Howell found abundant opportunities within the SFA Department of Government. She earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a Master of Public Administration. In addition, she was able to work her way up to vice president of the Criminal Justice Association, which strengthened her connection to the Nacogdoches community. Whitney credits the Department of Government with giving her a great foundation for her future.

    Whitney Howell, Classes of ‘13 and ‘15

    Whitney Howell, Classes of ‘13 and ‘15

Transformative Experiences

At SFA, we believe students benefit greatly from hands-on learning in and out of the classroom. Transformative experiences are at the core of our academic philosophy.

Texas Legislative Internship Program

Texas Legislative Internship Program

Every legislative session, the university gives select SFA students the chance to work full-time in the Texas Legislature. It’s a rare and valuable opportunity for those who want to learn the inner workings of our state’s legislative branch. Students who participate gain real-world experience in government and build critical connections as they network with other academics and professionals.

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Crime Simulations

Crime Simulations

Criminal justice students at SFA work in teams to solve simulated robberies, home invasions and other types of crimes as part of simulated crime scene field exercises. In the process, students learn the basics of scene investigation through hands-on learning activities.

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Meet Our Students

  • John H. Hasbun

    John H. Hasbun

    “I’ve been a healthcare professional for global medical organizations. By earning my Master of Public Administration at SFA, I’ll be better equipped to further my profession in healthcare management or hospital administration.”

  • Jaylon Simpson

    Jaylon Simpson

    “I transferred from a university where most of my classes were 75 to 200 students.  I love SFA’s small classroom setting. You really have a chance to get to know your professors and your classmates.”

  • James Dickert

    James Dickert

    “Through Pre-Law Society and moot court, I feel that I have become a leader in the pre-law community at SFA. I have no doubt that what I learned in both organizations will continue to help me in life long after I have graduated.”

want to contact the department of government?

  • CONTACT US

  • COME SEE US

    Dugas Liberal Arts North
    Room 124
     
    Mailing Address:
    P.O. Box 13045, SFA Station
    Nacogdoches, Texas 75962