Degrees and Pathways

Explore degree, minor and certificate options available through the Department of Political Science. Whether you’re interested in government, law, intelligence, or campaigns, we offer flexible academic paths that will prepare you for a successful career.

BA in Political Science
This degree is the study of human behavior as it relates to governments, public policy and campaigns and elections. 
Program Details   

BA in Political Science – Intelligence and National Security Studies
This degree prepares students for national security occupations, such as the FBI, the intelligence community, or other national security careers. 
Program Details 

BA in Political Science/Juris Doctorate (3+3)
In collaboration with the School of Law, this joint degree allows fourth-year undergraduate students to take courses in the Law School and receive both degrees in 6 years.  
Program Details   

MA in Political Science - Intelligence and National Security Studies
This advanced degree program is designed for individuals in careers in national security, intelligence, diplomacy, or other security related areas. 
Program Details 

Master of Applied Politics (MAP)
In collaboration with the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics, the MAP is one of only a handful of graduate programs in the United States focusing on practical politics and experiential learning.  The degree is designed for students interested in election campaigns, managing organizations, and other political activities.     
Program Details 

Juris Doctor/Master of Applied Politics (JD/MAP)
In collaboration with the School of Law and Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics, this joint degree allows students to receive both degrees with 18 fewer credits than if they took the program consecutively. 
Program Details 

American Politics Minor
This minor will introduce students to government, campaigns, and elections in the United States' political system.
Program Details

Comparative Politics Minor
This minor will familiarize students with political systems around the world and is a great addition for students interested in global initiatives, international development, and foreign policy.
Program Details

Criminal Justice Minor
This minor will familiarize students with the political implications of crime and the unique challenge of administering the justice system.
Program Details

Pre-Law Minor
The minor will introduce students to the politics of law and the judicial process and is an excellent addition for students considering continuing on to law school.
Program Details

Security Studies Minor
This minor will introduce students to the field of homeland and national security studies and will help prepare students for a career in intelligence, the military, homeland security, national security, international diplomacy, private intelligence, private security, and others.
Program Details

Applied Politics Certificate
This certificate is designed for students interested in election campaigns, digital strategy and messaging, fundraising, managing organizations, and other political activities. 
Undergraduate Program Details
Graduate Program Details

Applied Political Communication Certificate
This certificate’s interdisciplinary nature applies the fundamentals of public communication and political science to meet the specific needs and goals of political campaigns and advocacy organizations. 
Undergraduate Program Details
Graduate Program Details

YES, some things just set us apart.

Our program gives students real chances to work on real political issues—not just study them in a classroom. They connect students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional networks that help turn a political science degree into a career.

icon

Career Connections

Experiential Learning

Connect to internships in court, law, government, campaigns, and non-profits through our national placement network.

View Internship Opportunities
icon

Real-World Learning

Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics

Gain hands-on experience in campaigns, advocacy, and civic engagement through a nationally recognized bipartisan institute.

Explore Bliss Institute
icon

Intelligence & Security

Morell Center for Intelligence and Security Studies

Preparing the security professionals of tomorrow by bringing together security practitioners for internships, training, research, and education in the areas of intelligence, national security, and cybersecurity. 

Explore Morell Center

What our students say

A political science degree helps you understand how the world actually works—from elections and laws to the big decisions that shape people’s lives. It’s a great path if you want to debate big ideas, stand up for what you believe in, and build a career in government, law, advocacy, or public service.