Political Science

Political Science Major and Minor

Explore politics, public policy, and political behavior in the U.S. and around the world. Debate enduring value issues — like freedom, justice, order, and power — and the practical and ethical implications of contemporary policy issues.

polsci professor

Political Science AT A GLANCE

100

Of majors entering the workforce are employed within eight months of graduation.

10

Of graduates join service programs like Teach for America or the Peace Corps.

3:1

Average program student-faculty ratio

We prepare students for diverse careers.

Blending theoretical debates with practical skills, funded internships, travel seminars, student-faculty research, and civic engagement prepares our graduates to found 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, health care, immigration, law, terrorism, gender, media, and much more.

The Law and Policy Program: unique preparation for careers and graduate work

Integrates academics, civic learning, professional development on U.S. and global affairs. Includes internships, renowned speakers, and study away.

What interests you about politics?

Establish an introductory foundation and then focus coursework around big questions in the field like "Problems in Democracy" or "Globalization and Transnational Politics.'' Students study what interests them, rather than just checking off requirements.

Students take introductory courses on U.S. or international politics or political theory. Many also enroll in a 200-level course, such as regional surveys of Latin America, Europe, China, or the Middle East, or those on topics like Politics in Popular Culture, Law and Courts, Immigration, or Health Policy. Classes throughout the department are high energy spaces, including diverse approaches — lecture, discussion, simulations, and debates — and integrate current events and visiting speakers.

political science class

Students complete introductory coursework and enroll in 200-level courses, which are typically pitched to second-year students. Some students move into more focused 300-level seminars on topics like Constitutional Law, the Arab-Israeli Conflict, Urban Politics, Gender and Politics, East Asian Democracy, and Political Economy. Many students begin research with a faculty member; several of these collaborations have led to co-authored publications.

students in class

Students take their Junior Seminar, an advanced, research-based course to prepare for the Senior Project. Many complete summer internships. The Dotson Fund financially supports political scientists' internships in Washington, D.C., where we have a large network of alumni. Our partnership with the Robert H. Jackson Center offers another unique opportunity, but our students intern in locations around the globe — from Brussels to Capetown, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, and right here in Meadville!

discussion table

Students complete political science coursework, with advanced classes in topics like Race and Politics, Civil Wars, Congress, and Social Policy in European Democracies. All majors take the department's Comp proposal course and then research and write their Senior Project.

senior project presentation
Adam Miller, Alumnus

Research Analyst at the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, Class of 2018

“ 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. ”

Next Steps

Early Decision App Deadline

November 15, 2022

Regular Decision App Deadline

February 15, 2023

For More Info

Shanna Kirschner

Department Chair

814-332-2403