the bachelors (ba) degree in political science will develop knowledge of american political institutions, world politics, political theory, public administration, and policy.  our students learn to analyze, interpret, and explain political phenomena through the lens, and with the methods, of a political scientist.  our integrated curriculum challenges students to develop their critical thinking, communication, and research skills, preparing our graduates for citizenship and leadership, post-graduate study and diverse employment possibilities.  political science is an excellent background for students preparing for degrees in government, politics, civil society, the law, and the private sector.

as a political science major, you will construct an individualized course of study drawing on our rich curriculum, internship program, complimentary majors and minors, and study abroad opportunities. students will take a lower division foundation block of five courses that introduces them to the sub-fields of political science and their modes of inquiry.  after completion of the five-class foundation block, students individualize their course of study while fulfilling their upper division coursework requirements and a research design class.