Political Science in USA

Politics have been put under scrutiny in a systematic way since the ancient Greeks. Our own Constitution is the product of both the scholarly study of political theory and a practical framework for political institutions and norms. Our faculty in the Department of Political Science engage politics in a scientific and rigorous way to understand human behavior and world events. Study political science to prepare yourself for a career in campaigns, public policy, business, administration, political advocacy, law, or public service, but also to become an informed and active citizen. Especially during these times when the value of facts and objective truth seem to be under attack, political science plays an important role in helping inform political debate and discourse.

Political science is a broad and rich discipline. Some of our faculty members conduct research on why people behave the way they do politically. Others study institutions such as legislatures, courts, political parties, and bureaucracies both as organizations and as political actors themselves. Many political scientists use statistical analysis to understand political attitudes; others take deep dives into political philosophy. The field is divided into four principal fields: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory. Americanists study elections, voting, the presidency, Congress, the bureaucracy, race and politics, social movements, and courts. Comparativists primarily study the domestic politics of other countries, and they leverage comparison to seek answers to perennial political questions around democracy and authoritarianism, social identity and gender, political violence and conflict, why people protest, and the political economy of development. IR scholars study relations between states, including why states go to war, terrorism, international organizations like the United Nations and the World Bank, trade and finance across borders, and foreign policy. Theorists are intellectual historians and social critics interested in the millennia-long quest for the good and just society. 

Political science majors are comfortable at the intersection of the humanities and the sciences. Poli Sci majors can apply rigor to problems and they can articulate solutions with clarity and with an analytical command of data. Poli Sci graduates move into a wide spectrum of positions that demand well-honed writing and presentation skills. With a degree in political science, you will be able to apply reason and rigor to problems that are often consumed by ideology and emotion. The ability to define a problem and contribute to its solution while placing it within political, social, and cultural realities is a rare skill indeed, with applications well beyond the narrow confines of political work. The wide range of intellectual, analytical, qualitative, and quantitative skills, and a broad knowledge of world events that Poli Sci majors develop form the cornerstone of a powerful liberal arts education. 

Political science is the systematic study of politics, power relationships and government. Political science is in one sense an ancient discipline: Aristotle called it the “queen of the sciences.” Yet the focus for much of today’s political science was developed in the last century. Scientific observations have now joined older philosophical traditions. Modern political science examines politics in the United States, countries and regions of the world and in international relations. It explains how and why public decisions are made. Political science majors can qualify for a wide variety of careers in public and private sector organizations, including business, law, government, journalism, international organizations and finance, political campaigns, interest groups and secondary and college teaching. The study of public affairs and government is essential for developing effective citizenship. This training prepares one for professional or volunteer involvement in community organizations, issue movements, electoral politics, and other activities in the public arena.

There is no better place to study political science than a state capitol. Washburn’s proximity to state government is idea for real world experience through internships, shadowing opportunities, and beyond. Because of the broad range of course work and skill-building, from critical thinking and analysis to research methods and strategies, this degree will prepare you for a career as a civic professional, or for advanced study in a range of fields.

Students who want to make a career of investigating, addressing and solving political and social problems will find a major in political science equips them for the future. If you think law school might be in your future, this is the ideal bachelor’s degree to earn. It will prepare you by teaching you civil competence along with the opportunity to examine ethical issues, values and the consequences of public policy based on those values.

Political Science analyzes how governments and politics work, from global governance to local communities and schools. The Political Science major provides students with critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and ethical decision-making skills, to be prepared for a wide variety of careers in government, law, non-profits, education, and the private sector. Over the last 5 years, 50% of our majors move on to law school or graduate school. Our students are leaders, change agents, problem solvers--skills necessary for all careers. Our students are adaptable and flexible, ready to learn new skills as fields and technology develop. Our students care--they are already leaders on campus and in our community. They want to make a difference, and we hope you join us!

A major in political science provides students with the tools necessary to engage as citizens in an increasingly global, interdependent and diverse world.

The program stresses critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving, and written and oral communication skills that are beneficial in any profession.

The Department of Political Science at Western Illinois University offers an intensive program of study and guided research to qualified applicants holding a Bachelors degree. The department curriculum is designed to provide graduate students with a broad and solid foundation in political science suitable for building careers in teaching, government service, politics, community development, and continued study at the doctorate level.

As a Political Science major, you'll study both domestic and foreign affairs, gaining insight into the philosophical and historical foundations of constitutional government in the United States, while also learning about other forms of government around the world.

Students may select a general major in political science, or choose a more specific track within the major, such as Foreign Affairs or Public Management, to focus your studies. You'll also have the opportunity to pair your degree with a number of different minors.  The pre-law program is also housed in the Department of Politics and International Relations.

As part of the major, you will have the opportunity to participate on the YSU Moot Court team and Model UN.

By the time you graduate from the program, you'll be able to:

• Summarize fundamental components of political theory, American government, comparative politics and international relations;
• Explain constitutional principles that have shaped the American Republic;
• Recognize basic ideas, problems and processes of comparative politics and international relations relative to issues of Western and non-Western political development, different forms of national government, and foreign policy behaviors in the global economy; and
• Apply the Style Manual of the American Political Science Association (APSA) in conjunction with your research, writing skills and projects.

The programs of the Political Science Department are designed to help students attain a deeper understanding of politics and civic life in its various dimensions. The department encourages students to become sophisticated theoretically and to study politics in global and comparative perspective. We divide the curriculum into American Politics, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and International Relations (and Law and Politics at the graduate level). Students are encouraged to develop expertise in several of these areas.

The department has 32 faculty members. The undergraduate program offers a broad range of courses about politics and government at local, state, national, and international levels. In addition to taking courses on the Homewood campus, students can do independent research under the guidance of a faculty mentor, take courses at the Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C., and participate in the Aitchison Public Service Undergraduate Fellowship Program at the Johns Hopkins Washington Center.

Political science is the study of governments, public policies and political behavior in the United States and all countries and regions of the world. Our political science major offers a strong undergraduate education in the liberal arts tradition. You'll develop skills in critical thinking, active learning and leadership. Discover a strong community of students discussing, collaborating and leading the charge for the next generation of civic and political leaders.

Virtually every piece of our lives is impacted by politics. As a USM political science major, you’ll study power and justice, or, as we like to call it, who gets what and why. Political science majors at USM are driven to discover the truth about political forces that impact our lives.

Studying political science at USM teaches:

• Analytical, critical thinking, and effective communication skills.
• Exceptional writing skills are needed, and majors are pushed to write efficiently and effectively in virtually every class.
• Many majors choose to double major with history or political science to increase career marketability.

Practical experiences are available with internships at Fort Leavenworth, city/state governments, and more. And many students take advantage of distance-learning experiences across the globe to places like Washington, D.C., New York City, Russia, Japan, Canada, and Peru. 

A B.A. in Political Science from Georgian Court University provides the foundation for a wide range of careers and graduate study in other social science fields. Learn how to think critically, analyze information logically and objectively, and develop effective oral and written communication skills.

Many students with a bachelor’s degree in political science will pursue opportunities in business or law, nonprofit or research organizations, or political campaigns or the offices of politicians. You can find employment and be effective volunteers in the areas of public policy, advocacy, planning, management, lobbying, political advising, community organizing, public relations, governance, market research and human rights.

Politics, Government, & Law focuses on the theory and practice of politics.  This major challenges students to political systems, governmental institutions, political behavior, and the development of public policy and law. It explores who has power, how they acquire it, and what they do with it. Courses in international relations, comparative and domestic politics, American and international law, and public policy encourage students to think critically and to strengthen their skills in the oral and written presentation of ideas.

Since governmental decisions and the pursuit of power have relevancy to nearly all disciplines, the curriculum is designed for both Politics, Government & Law majors and students from other programs.

The Bachelor of Arts degree program prepares students to pursue careers in law, politics, international affairs, domestic and foreign policy, public administration, public relations, consulting, education, or private industry.

Political science is the study of governments, public policies and political processes, systems, and political behavior, according to the American Political Science Association. Those earning degrees in political science understand the governing process and its relationship to complex issues arising in a modern society.

At the core of Endicott's political science program is the recognition that this era of global connectedness requires greater understanding, intercultural communication, and diplomacy as individuals, communities, and nations work together toward common goals. Through the coursework, you will examine the theory and practice of political governance to analyze policies and initiatives as well as the ideologies beneath them.

Upon graduation, you will have a firm grasp of classic and contemporary political theory, a practical understanding of the workings of local and federal governments, and an appreciation of the unique position of the United States and the world system. You will also gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive, well informed impact in the world - and in the career of your choice in a wide range of fields.

Our PPE program exposes you to many different professors and courses. In your philosophy coursework, you’ll explore the big questions of life and learn to think deeply. In your political science courses, you’ll learn how political systems operate in the U.S. and abroad. Finally, in your economic courses – delivered through the Dicke College of Business Administration – you’ll analyze the market forces that impact social issues.

Although you’ll study three subjects, you’ll still graduate in four years. Guaranteed. In fact, if you can’t complete the program in four years through no fault of your own – we’ll pick up the tab for the rest. 

Be prepared to learn just as much outside the classroom as you do inside. You’ll have lots of opportunities to read, write, solve problems, communicate complex ideas, and make informed and ethical decisions. You’ll graduate with a flexible skillset that will stand out in the marketplace.

The political science program is designed to provide students with a quality liberal arts education that builds on the content of the core curriculum. At the most basic level, the program allows students to develop an understanding of politics and government and of the role of individuals and groups within the political and governmental systems. The program is designed to prepare students for graduate education in a variety of social science fields and/or for entrance into careers in the public service systems at the international, federal, state or local levels.

The political science degree requires a total of 44 credit hours, along with the 32 credit hours required to fulfill the Integrative Core. As a political science major at Mount Union, you will explore the American government, international relations, and the American legal system. The degree also emphasizes practical experiences with as well as opportunities for hands-on learning to prepare you for a rewarding career, including: 

• Opportunities to network with alumni who are making a real difference both in and outside of the classroom
• Internships with various government agencies, local attorneys and judges, interest groups, and The Washington Center Program (assignments in the Washington, DC area)
• Membership in Mount Union’s Model United Nations, a student-lead organization that aims to promote a better understanding of and provide for an active simulation of the United Nations as well as have students actively participate in Model UN conferences and tournaments
• Participation in Mount Union’s Mock Trial

The Civic Leadership concentration aims to provide students interested in careers in public life with an informed appreciation for American democracy, the values and structures on which it is based, and the challenges and opportunities it faces in the 21st century.

The mission of the department of political science at Rice University is to contribute to the university and discipline through excellence in research, graduate training and undergraduate teaching. We train graduate students in modern techniques of social science research in three substantive areas of political science—

American Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Relations—to prepare them for successful careers in academic research. We contribute to the liberal arts education of our undergraduate students with courses aimed at developing their skills in critical and analytical thinking and writing, increasing their understanding of political processes, and encouraging responsible and active citizenship. In addition, we train our political science majors to conduct independent political science research.  We aim to prepare all of our students for successful careers in academia, government, business, law, education, non-governmental organizations, and many other professional paths.