Politics affects and informs every aspect of life. As a political science major, you'll study the ways in which power is distributed and used in society, both nationally and globally. You鈥檒l discover how wars start, democracies work, politicians legislate and people vote鈥攏ot only in the U.S. but around the world. You鈥檒l learn how everyday issues鈥攕uch as our right to free speech, access to healthcare and the burden of taxation鈥攁re greatly determined by politics at home and abroad.
As a political science major, you鈥檒l do more than study politics鈥攜ou鈥檒l participate in politics. From dynamic internships in political offices, law firms, public interest groups and major corporations, to classes in which you work with immigrant communities, to individualized mentorship from experienced and caring faculty, our program prepares you to contribute to national and international politics.
What you鈥檒l explore
As a political science, you鈥檒l develop a deep understanding of how power shapes our lives and the global community in the following areas:
- Political systems and governance structures: You'll study various forms of government, including democracies and authoritarian regimes, and how they function.
- Political behavior and attitudes: You'll learn about citizens' attitudes toward political issues, their voting behavior and how their beliefs shape their decisions and actions.
- Political ideologies: You'll study political ideologies鈥攕uch as conservatism, liberalism and socialism鈥攁nd their impact on the development and functioning of political systems.
- Political economy: You'll explore the intersection of political and economic systems, including the role of markets, trade and regulation in shaping the distribution of resources and wealth.
- International relations: You'll study how nations interact with each other and the role of international organizations such as the United Nations in shaping global politics.
- Public policy: You'll examine the processes by which public policies are developed and implemented, including the role of interest groups, lobbying and advocacy.
Opportunities for Immersion
The Department of Political Science is the ideal home for students interested in politics, international affairs and important issues like health care, the environment and civil rights. You鈥檒l study political theory and debate how power and resources should be allocated in society, and you can take advantage of the following opportunities:
- One-on-one mentorship with award-winning faculty
- International study abroad
- An accelerated 3-3 program with the Thomas C. Kline School of Law School
- An early admissions program with the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs.
Explore more at our page dedicated to student opportunities.
Braden Niles, A'25, a triple major in political science, sociology, and Catholic studies,
was recognized with the McAnulty College General Excellence Award for his outstanding
academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service. A cornerstone of campus life, Braden served as vice president of academic affairs
for the Student Government Association, a Liberal Arts senator, and vice president
of communication for the Residence Hall Association. He was also named Homecoming
King, recognized as the top political science student, earned an Excellence in Student
Leadership Award, and participated in the Honors College. Braden credits his professors in Political Science for shaping his experience and
preparing him for success beyond the classroom. He attributes his Liberal Arts education has given him a strong foundation for his
future: Grounded in service, reflection, and a commitment to making a difference.
Talk with our undergraduate recruiter to learn how 福利免费毛片鈥檚 Liberal Arts
programs fit your bigger goals.
Learning and Leadership
鈥淚t was truly a pleasure to work with such a talented set of professors and administrators,鈥
he said. 鈥淭heir mentorship helped me develop the critical thinking, empathy, and communication
skills I鈥檒l carry into my career.鈥
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Political Science Department



