Political Science

Purdue University in West Lafayette

Are you interested in American politics? Conflict? International economic relations? Law? Critical issues such as health, the environment or human security? Theories concerning the ideal government and how power and resources are allocated in society? Learning how to engage others and become a leader? Political science is a broad discipline where we explore the full range of political phenomenon!

Political science is the study of governments and institutions, political behavior and public policies. We use both humanistic and scientific approaches to examine critical issues in both the United States and globally. As a political science major, you will hone the writing, communication and analytical skills that are central to a liberal arts education and that will prepare you for professional careers or for further study of politics and law. Political scientists go on to work in government and nongovernmental organizations, law, journalism, nonprofits, national or international security, lobbying, education, activism, research and business. Political science training also provides valuable preparation for participating in politics and civic life.

Political science majors have the option to choose a concentration in the major from a growing list of exciting plans of study. These 12-credit concentrations — which appear on transcripts — signal to future employers and graduate schools where your interest and expertise lie within the broad field of political science. These include: 

• Law and Political Thought 
• American Politics
• Public Policy
• Politics of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 
• Environmental Politics and Policy 
• National and International Security 
• International and Comparative Politics  

We encourage students to learn by doing! Students have the option of adding a research-intensive course of study that includes applied research with faculty and research labs in the department. Students may also include local, state, national or global internships and study abroad into their program of study.

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