Political Science Major
Political Science is the study of government, politics, public policy, and political behavior. It is a major within Social Sciences.
Political Science is the study of government, politics, public policy, and political behavior. Students examine how political systems work, why people vote and organize politically, and how societies make collective decisions. The major encourages you to ask questions like: What makes a government legitimate? How do laws get made and enforced? What shapes public opinion? Students develop skills in research, critical analysis, and understanding different political perspectives—tools useful for understanding current events and how the world is governed.
Students drawn to Political Science often have curiosity about current affairs, institutions, and how power operates in society. Some are motivated by a desire to understand or influence policy; others are interested in the historical and theoretical foundations of politics. The major typically begins with broad introductory courses covering different political systems and foundational concepts, then progresses to more specialized study in areas like policy analysis, political theory, international relations, or regional politics. As students advance, they engage more directly with research methods and applied problem-solving, developing the ability to analyze political questions with evidence and nuance.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Political Science program commonly includes topics such as:
- American government
- Comparative politics
- International relations
- Political theory
- Public policy
- Research methods
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Political Science is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Political Science background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Policy analyst
- Legislative aide
- Campaign staffer
- Researcher
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Political Science major?
Political Science is the study of government, politics, public policy, and political behavior. It is part of social sciences, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Political Science majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as american government, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Political Science major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as policy analyst, legislative aide, campaign staffer. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Political Science offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.