Political Science

Political science, a major in the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences, prepares you for an exciting career in business management, government service, law, education and much more. Many of our graduates go on to law school or pursue opportunities in public relations firms, political campaigns, lobbying and advocacy groups, local, state and national government, consulting, as well as in teaching and journalism. Political science students have also built successful careers with nonprofits, political consulting firms and social organizations.

The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Political Science, as well as minors in American government/public law, foreign and international politics, political science and public administration. Our graduate programs include a Master of Arts, Master of Public Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science.

Most of our students tailor a study plan to match their unique interests and goals after graduation. For example, if you’re interested in pursuing a career in law and going on to law school, you’ll probably take several public law courses. Or, if you’re looking to move into business management, you may want to take courses in international relations and foreign policy.

• B.A. Political Science – This option emphasizes a traditional liberal arts track with a broad understanding of political processes.
• B.S. Political Science – This program places more emphasis on methodology and statistics.

Whichever track you select, you’ll be required to take a course in political theory and research methods and at least two courses in both American politics and foreign politics.

Through interactive class discussions, debates and lectures you’ll gain an historical perspective on political science, looking from both American and global viewpoints, and you’ll uncover characteristics of modern day governments, political behavior and the development of public policies. You’ll also study:

• The effects of globalization
• American presidencies
• Political violence and revolution
• Civil liberties
• Women in politics
• Contemporary political ethics

Prepare for Success

If you’re interested in learning how power, resources and funds are collected and distributed in society, a degree in political science may be for you. Many of our most successful students are also interested in what’s happening in American politics and international affairs. You can prepare for our program and a successful career by getting involved in your school government at a leadership level and by participating in local groups and organizations you're passionate about.

Your First Year

Below are examples of the political science courses you will take:

• Introduction to Political Science and American Government (PolS 101)
• State & Local Government (PolS 275)
• Introduction to Comparative Politics (PolS 205)
• International Politics (PolS 237)

What You Can Do

With an undergraduate degree in political science, you may become a:

• Community organizer
• Government administrator
• Analyst
• City planner, city housing administrator
• Housing administrator
• Communications director
• Public affairs adviser
• Coordinator of federal or state funded aid
• Counselor
• Immigration officer
• Journalist
• Labor relations specialist
• Human resources manager
• Policy analyst
• Publisher
• Urban policymaker
• High school teacher (teaching certificate required)

Opportunities

Many of our graduates have built rewarding careers in federal, state and local governments, law and business, and in international advocacy agencies and organizations. There are also opportunities to work for nonprofit associations and to work in the areas of campaign management, public policy, journalism and much more.

Current Research

The James A. and Louise McClure Center for Public Policy Research, a unit affiliated with the University of Idaho Department of Political Science, is just one example of an organization on campus that gives you the opportunity to become involved in real political issues shaping our community. This organization produces research reports for local and state officials and conducts topical policy and political analysis. In addition, the group hosts colloquia, a seminar series and brings in experts to discuss current topics and policy issues facing our state, the Pacific Northwest and even the nation.

Activities

In addition to numerous events and panel discussions happening on campus, the Political Science Club offers an excellent way for you to connect with fellow students and to get to know faculty. You may also become involved in Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society.

Hands-On Experience

We believe internship experience is a critical component of your political science education. Our department awards internship credits and encourages you to gain hands-on, practical experience by working in the legislature, the executive branch, or by becoming involved in a political campaign. This internship experience will give you a competitive advantage after graduation and in your chosen career.

You’ll also have opportunities to participate in faculty research programs and group based project work.

Faculty Involvement

In addition to being excellent educators, our faculty members are active in research, writing and speaking pursuits. Several of our faculty members are involved in the Bureau of Public Affairs Research organization which, as an undergraduate, gives you unprecedented access to some of today’s top political science enthusiasts.

Sandra Reineke, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Areas of interest: Political Philosophy, History of Political Ideas, Democratic Theory, Citizenship, Social Movements, Feminist Political Theory, Sexual Politics, Comparative Politics, West European Politics, Theories of International Relations, Causes of War, International Organizations, Human Rights Courses recently taught: POLS 101 (Introduction to American Politics) POLS 235 (Methods) POLS 404 Honors (Popular Culture Studies) POLS 404 Honors (Youth Politics and Political Mobilization) WOMST 201 (Introduction to Women's Studies) CORE 110/116 (Sex and Culture: Women and Men in the 21st Century)
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