Administration

Robert Hurt, B.A., J.D.
Dean, Helms School of Government

Jason Ross, B.S., M.P.P., Ph.D.
Associate Dean, Helms School of Government
Associate Professor of Government

Joel Cox, A.S., B.S., M.P.A., Ed.D.
Associate Dean, Helms School of Government
Professor of Criminal Justice

Program Directors

A listing of program directors can be viewed on the Program Director webpage.

Research Intensive Courses

All research intensive courses are listed online on the Center for Research & Scholarship QEP Overview webpage.

Purpose

The Helms School of Government offers Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Associate of Arts degrees, with majors in Government, International Relations, Law and Policy, Political Science, Fire Administration, Public Administration and Criminal Justice; minors in Government, International Relations, Criminal Justice, Strategic and Intelligence Studies; and concentrations in Politics and Policy, International Politics and Policy, Strategic and Intelligence Studies.

The curriculum encourages students to approach their chosen professions as opportunities for Christian Service and equips students with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in conducting the business of government, politics, policy-making, public administration, public safety and military service. The goal of the curriculum is to produce action-oriented students who are able to understand and articulate the biblical roots of our religious, economic, and political liberties, and, thus, to equip them to become highly qualified leaders in their chosen career fields.

Internships

Knowledge becomes wisdom when a student takes the theory of the classroom and applies it in the context of the real world. To that end, our students are encouraged to apply for an internship in their field of study. The Helms School of Government is actively placing our students in positions at the White House, offices of elected officials, military and government intelligence agencies, and conservative political organizations. Internships are also available at the state and local government level as well at federal and state criminal justice agencies.

Applicants must satisfy the 2.50+ GPA requirement and successfully complete the rigorous screening process prior to placement. The program is designed to keep the student on track for graduation and qualify for financial aid programs.

Partnerships

In addition, in order to provide motivated students with unique educational opportunities, the Helms School of Government also partners with the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy, the School of Engineering, and the School of Communication. These partnerships are in place to set students apart and better prepare them for employment.

Dress Code

The Helms School of Government requires its faculty and students to maintain a neat, well-groomed, and professional appearance. The standards in this code apply to all 300 and 400 level classes and exams, as well as school-wide functions held within the Helms School of Government. More information can be found online at Helms School of Government Dress Code.

The Center for Law & Government

The Center for Law and Government, a collaboration between the School of Law and Helms School of Government at Liberty University, is a state and national stage for the free exchange of ideas and the robust debate of issues of national and state importance.

Harnessing broad expertise, the Center promotes public policy that is consistent with fundamental principles of American freedom: self-government, free enterprise, and the rule of law.