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 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.
Law (Accelerated B.A./J.D.) Program
Shave off a year of law school while earning your bachelor's in Political Science. With the Law (Accelerated Bachelor's/J.D.) program you can double count credits your fourth year to go towards beginning coursework for a law degree.
For more information, contact Political Science Pre-Law Coordinator: Benjamin Kassow
Leaders in Action
Through perseverance, hard work and faculty support, Michelle Nguyen pursued a double major in economics and political science while overcoming personal obstacles.
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Gain a Master of Public Administration degree with just one additional year of study through UND's BA/MPA program.
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Network and build knowledge through Pi Sigma Alpha, UND's political science honor society.
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Travel to conferences and test your skills through UND's Model UN program.
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Tap into insights from U.S. senators, members of Congress, judges and others at the annual Frank Wenstrom Lecture.
*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
When You Major in Political Science
An Political Science degree gives you the strategic skills you need, including:
- Strategic Planning
- Event Planning
- Legal Research
- Policy Analysis
- Public Policies
UND Political Science Alumni
Political Science alumni have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:
- Wells Fargo & Company
- United States Department of the Army
- Booth Group
- Ford Motor Company
- Grand Forks Public Library