Social and Behavioral Sciences
Political Science Major and Minor
Explore politics, public policy, and political behavior in the U.S. and around the world. As a political science student, you'll investigate and debate enduring values and issues — like freedom, justice, and power — while learning to solve problems facing society today.
Why Study Political Science at Allegheny?
We prepare students for diverse careers.
Our graduates launch NGOs, work in Congress, join intelligence agencies, practice law, lead marketing firms, and teach high school.
Our courses span the globe: the U.S., China, Middle East, Europe, and Latin America
Students pursue their passions among a wide range of choices: race, immigration, law, terrorism, gender, media, and much more.
We combine foundational theory with career-building experiences.
As you learn fundamental and advanced concepts, you can benefit from funded internships, travel seminars, student-faculty research, and civic engagement.
Your Four-Year Journey
Students often combine a major in Political Science with a minor in Communication & Cultural Studies, English, Global Health Studies, History, Philosophy, or Middle East and North African Studies.
Understanding
Take introductory courses on political theory, the U.S., or international politics. Don't forget to enroll in Latin America, Europe, China, or the Middle East survey courses. Political Science classes are high-energy spaces with diverse approaches — lectures, discussion, simulations, debates, and visiting speakers.
New Approaches
Begin research with a faculty member; several collaborations have led to co-authored publications! Politics in Popular Culture, Law and Courts, Human Rights, and Immigration are popular course choices during the second year. Consider applying for internships with local governments; in Washington, DC; or with a non-governmental organization.
Delving Deeper
Take the Junior Seminar, an advanced research-based course to prepare for their Senior Comp and complete summer internships. The Dotson Fund financially supports political scientists' internships in Washington, D.C., where we have an extensive alumni network. Our partnership with the Robert H. Jackson Center offers another unique opportunity, but our students intern in locations around the globe — from Brussels, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, and right here in Meadville!
The Comp
Research and write a unique thesis for their Senior Comp. You'll also have the opportunity to take advanced classes on topics like Race and Politics, Civil Wars, Congress, and Social Policy in European Democracies.
Alumni Careers — A Sampling
Adam Miller, Alumnus
Data Analyst at DevTech Systems
“ The Political Science Department here at Allegheny is life changing. I have benefited from amazing opportunities, such as an internship with a refugee resettlement agency and completing published research. This, combined with a faculty who study a wide range of topics and who want to know you on a personal level, has prepared me to be successful in the next steps of my journey. ”
