Overview of the Political Science Major

The Department of Political Science offers instruction and research in the art and science of politics. Work within the department is organized around seven basic fields: American government and politics, comparative politics, public policy, law and politics, political philosophy, empirical theory and methodology, and international relations. The major in political science leads to a bachelor of arts (B.A.) degree. The American portion of the program concentrates on the United States government and political system. Courses analyze topics such as interest groups, governmental regulation of business, political parties, the presidential and congressional systems, public priorities, the judicial system, and constitutional law. In the area of comparative and international politics, you’ll investigate the effects and implications of socioeconomic and political changes of Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America. In addition, you’ll study the dynamics of the international environment, the causes of war, international organizations, and the armed forces. Political theory courses examine historical, institutional, normative, sociological, systemic, and quantitative approaches to the study of politics. You’ll examine political thought from ancient Greece to the present, with a critical evaluation of those elements that have endured through the ages.Coming soon.

Career Possibilities

A degree in political science will provide you with knowledge and understanding of political issues and prepare you for a career in fields such as the civil service, journalism, management, politics, legislative analysis, criminology, city planning, and population studies. You can combine the major with teaching credentials and teach government, political science, and civics in secondary schools. If you plan to go on to the graduate level, you will find that the political science major provides excellent background, especially for law school or graduate school in political science. Career Services offers a number of programs and services designed to help you plan your career, including workshops, internships, and placement services after graduation. For an appointment appointment with a career counselor or for more information, call 303-492-6541 or stop by Willard Administrative Center 34. Find the home page at: http://careerservices.colorado.edu/.