Political Science Undergraduate Program

Political Science Undergraduate Program

Are you interested the critical issues facing society? How governments across the globe solve pressing problems? How to engage others and become a leader?

Gain marketable communication and critical-thinking skills, learn how political science research helps solve problems, acquire leadership and civic engagement skills, and pursue a career based on your interests.

Participating in internships, student organizations, study abroad, and collaborative research with faculty provide practical experience to prepare for your future!

Majors, Minors, and Certificates

Political Science is the study of governments, their institutions, policies, and processes, and the study of people, their beliefs, their their decision-processes, their attitudes and behavior. Political Science uses rigorous research methods and scientific perspectives to examine the complex and challenging problems facing United States and all regions of the world. We offer innovative coursework in international relations, public policy, American politics, environmental politics, politics of groups and identity, and comparative politics.

Career Exploration

As a political science major, you will hone the writing, communications, and analytical skills critical to a wide range of professions. This education prepares you to think critically and independently, develop analytic skills and leadership qualities, and understand the challenges facing governments and citizens across the globe. Political science is versatile degree. Graduates work in many fields, including legislative settings, public policy think tanks, law, foreign affairs, business, non-governmental agencies, and many others.

Civic Engagement

Political science provides valuable training in civic engagement. Through your academic training, which you may rely on throughout your lifetime, you will learn about participation in community organizations, electoral politics, and movements on behalf of specific policies. You will also be exposed to the process for seeking elective or appointive positions in government.

High-Impact Learning Opportunities

Learning opportunities abound in political science at Purdue. Explore state politics through an internship with the Indiana General Assembly or join Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society, and organize events for fellow students. Participate in research with a political science faculty member and learn about research methods and explore whether graduate education is in your future.

Admission

Explore the Political Science Department website, learn about coursework and faculty research areas, and discuss a political science program with an academic advisor or the Undergraduate Director, Professor Shimko.

Courses and Advising

Find links for academic advisors, course schedules, major and minor requirements, and everything related to Pol Sci coursework.

Watch recent Political Science grad Daniella Ashibuogwu explain what she values about her liberal arts education at Purdue:

"I have an interest in Politics. I love learning about American government as well as American history, and I ultimately want to write legislation. One type of policy that’s really close to my heart is education. There are a lot of really great policies out there to help people who can’t get to school, or people who don’t necessarily have the resources like I have here at Purdue."

"What I have gained from the College of Liberal Arts is versatility. I don’t have to set one path in my life."