political science students sit at lecture

Political ScienceB.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. 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 earn a degree in political science at UND?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 17
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

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.

Political Science Major

  • Gain a Master of Public Administration degree with just one additional year of study through UND's B.A./M.P.A. 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.

  • 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.

Careers in Political Science

122K

Median salary for political scientists in 2019

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

13 

Number of UND Political Science grads who have won Truman Scholarships to attend graduate school

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:

  • Associated Press
  • Brookings Institution
  • Peace Corps
  • North Dakota States Attorney Office
  • North Dakota Office of Labor and Human Rights
  • United States Department of the Army

Political Science 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.

POLS 225. Comparative Politics. 3 Credits.

An introduction to comparative politics with emphasis on the democratic systems of Europe. F.

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.

Explore More Options

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

Pre-Law Coordinator
Benjamin Kassow
P 701.777.3549
F 701.777.0000
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