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Political Science (B.A.)

A degree that paves the way to politics — or the law, public policy, journalism and dozens of other options.

As a Political Science major, you'll explore political systems around the globe, reaching a deeper understanding of our own democratic processes and the relationship between citizens and states everywhere. Even deeper than that, though, you'll build analytic, communication and leadership skills that make you a valuable candidate for any job that demands you relate theory to practice.

Program Snapshot
Program type:
Major
Format:
On-campus
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120

Why Study Political Science at UND?

When you study political science, you gain keen insights into the social and economic forces that affect governments around the world. You'll take classes in public policy, international relations, comparative politics and similar topics, while rounding out your education with a spectrum of liberal arts courses that foster critical and independent thinking. The curriculum is flexible, allowing you to tailor your education to match your career goals. Depending on the electives you take, you can focus on pre-law, international relations, political activism or public policy.

In a department that cares for you as a student, you will experience small classes, where you will know your professors and your professors will know you.

With an emphasis on hands-on learning, UND students are encouraged to take internships — in the past, they've worked with the North Dakota and Minnesota Congressional delegations, government agencies, law firms and judges. In addition, at least 25% of political science majors travel to undergraduate conferences or other academic events.

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Priority Application Deadlines

FALL: Feb. 1* (freshmen) | April 15* (transfer students)

SPRING: Dec. 1

SUMMER: April 1

*academic scholarship priority deadline

Program Highlights


  • Gain a Master of Public Administration degree with just one additional year of study through UND's BA/MPA program.


  • Network and build knowledge through Pi Sigma Alpha, UND's political science honor society.


  • Travel to conferences and test your skills through UND's Model UN program.


  • Tap into insights from U.S. senators, members of Congress, judges and others at the annual Frank Wenstrom Lecture. 

Outcomes

 
114K
Median salary for political scientists in 2016*
13 
Number of UND Political Science grads who have won Truman Scholarships to attend graduate school.

 

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

As a Political Science major, you can join a long list of alumni who have gone into public service — or pursue a host of other careers, including:

  • Attorney
  • Human rights advocate
  • Journalist
  • Lobbyist
  • Intelligence analyst
  • Public relations

Courses You Could Take

 

POLS 115. American Government I. 3 Credits.

An introduction to political science through the study of the American political system: The Constitution; the political processes; the structure, powers and procedures of the Presidency, Congress, and the Judiciary. F,S.

POLS 305. American Constitution-Governmental Powers. 3 Credits.

American Constitution studied in light of U.S. Supreme Court decisions and interpretations; focus on government powers, federal relationships, and economic regulation. F.

POLS 220. International Politics. 3 Credits.

An introduction to international politics with emphasis on the international system, the major actors, the struggle for power, and the struggle for order. S.

POLS 310. Introduction to Political Thought. 3 Credits.

Political thought from classical times to the 19th century with emphasis on issues raised in the works of Plato, Aristotle, St. Agustine, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, Marx and Nietzsche. F.

POLS 532. Public Policy. 3 Credits.

A discussion of the initiation, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of American public policy. Various policy areas such as agriculture, education, environment, and welfare will be analyzed.

Explore More Options

Looking to add a double major, pursue graduate work or connect with the department?

  • Department of Political Science & Public Administration
  • Find Similar Majors
  • Pursue a Graduate Degree

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