Political Science

As a Political Science major, students will work with experts in American government, international and comparative politics, and policymaking to explore important, relevant questions to their academic and professional development. Some of these questions include:

  • Which skills will prepare students to serve as leaders in their communities, be it in local politics or national governance?
  • How can the study of law make students effective citizens and advocates for supporting their fellow citizens?
  • What can students learn about effective governance and policymaking by studying countries from across the world?
  • How can students best understand modern challenges to society, including environmental degradation, war, inequality, and terrorism, and apply this knowledge in order to make meaningful contributions in addressing them?
  • What practices and processes help ensure a fair and just society for all individuals?

Through rigorous coursework, individual research projects, and practical experiences, students will not only be prepared for an ever-changing job market, but also develop a passion for politics — ready to participate in the vital work required of democratic citizens in the twenty-first century!

Graduates have gone on to contribute to a varied set of professions, including local, state, and national government, law, non-profit work, advocacy, academia, and international business.

The department offers several degree options that offer a rich study of topics, such as law, global politics, and campaigning, while also permitting the flexibility to add double-majors and minors from other departments:

  • Political Science, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Global Politics, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Practical Politics: Campaigning, Lobbying, and Policymaking, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Pre-Law, B.A. or B.S.
  • Political Science: Public Policy, B.A.

The minimum GPA for a political science degree is 2.50 with a minimum grade of "C" in all upper-division political science and related upper-division coursework. Additional flexibility in the degree program is offered through internships, and opportunities to work with professors in developing independent study courses in areas where the department may not offer regular coursework.

In addition, departmental minors that allow for an in-depth, focused study on key topics, including :

  • Campaigns and Lobbying
  • Intelligence and Security Analysis
  • Law and Legal Studies

The required GPA for a minor is 2.50.