Political Science
The Political Science Program focuses on the systematic study of political ideas, institutions, and behavior across American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, and public administration. Students gain insights into politics at all levels, which prepares them for active citizenship and involvement in community organizations, issue movements, electoral politics, and other public activities.
Careers in Political Science
Political science majors can qualify for a wide variety of careers in public and private sector organizations, including business, law, government, journalism, international organizations and finance, political campaigns, interest groups and secondary and college teaching.- Campaign Manager
- College/University Professor
- Consultant
- Court Services
- Elections Analyst
- Foreign Relations
Potential Salary
Median Salary $132,350
Political Science Degrees at MSU
Political Science, Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science in Political Science examines politics and government in the United States, various countries and regions of the world, and the international arena. The study of public affairs and government is essential for developing effective citizenship and pursuing successful professional careers in the public and private sectors.
Political Science, Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science examines politics and government in the United States, various countries and regions of the world, and the international arena. This degree track is recommended for students planning a career in law, jobs related to international affairs, and future graduate education.
Political Science, Minor
The Political Science minor provides students majoring in other disciplines with an opportunity to explore how and why public decisions are made and to acquire better knowledge and understanding of the structure of politics in the United States and around the world.
Political Science, Graduate Certificate
The Political Science graduate certificate is designed for secondary and post-secondary teachers and post-secondary instructors who would like to further their professional development, meet post-secondary faculty qualifications, or earn their first credits toward an eventual master’s degree. The certificate prepares educators for teaching college-level courses prescribed by the Higher Learning Commission.
Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Bachelor of Arts–Philosophy Emphasis
The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) Bachelor of Arts with a philosophy emphasis integrates key elements of philosophy, political science, and economics into one comprehensive program. Students use analytical methods from all three disciplines to explore the relationships between economic, political, and legal systems, gaining critical thinking skills to evaluate societal issues. This major prepares students for careers in law, business, public policy, journalism, civil service, or international affairs.
Political Science, Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science in Political Science examines politics and government in the United States, various countries and regions of the world, and the international arena. The study of public affairs and government is essential for developing effective citizenship and pursuing successful professional careers in the public and private sectors.
Political Science, Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science examines politics and government in the United States, various countries and regions of the world, and the international arena. This degree track is recommended for students planning a career in law, jobs related to international affairs, and future graduate education.
Political Science, Minor
The Political Science minor provides students majoring in other disciplines with an opportunity to explore how and why public decisions are made and to acquire better knowledge and understanding of the structure of politics in the United States and around the world.
Political Science, Graduate Certificate
The Political Science graduate certificate is designed for secondary and post-secondary teachers and post-secondary instructors who would like to further their professional development, meet post-secondary faculty qualifications, or earn their first credits toward an eventual master’s degree. The certificate prepares educators for teaching college-level courses prescribed by the Higher Learning Commission.
Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Bachelor of Arts–Philosophy Emphasis
The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) Bachelor of Arts with a philosophy emphasis integrates key elements of philosophy, political science, and economics into one comprehensive program. Students use analytical methods from all three disciplines to explore the relationships between economic, political, and legal systems, gaining critical thinking skills to evaluate societal issues. This major prepares students for careers in law, business, public policy, journalism, civil service, or international affairs.
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Pre-Law Society
The Pre-Law Society is a student-sponsored organization that fosters interaction among pre-law students at the university. Benefits include LSAT preparation, networking with law schools and professors to assist with applications and setting up your law school portfolio. The society holds regular meetings, sponsors guest speakers, organizes LSAT study groups, plans visits to law schools, coordinates mock trials and engages in other appropriate law-related activities.
Pi Sigma Alpha
The purpose of Pi Sigma Alpha is to encourage excellence in the study of political science, international relations and public administration; to promote social and educational opportunities, as well as scholarly activity for students in these fields.
Related Programs
International Relations
The International Relations degree offers students the opportunity to study international politics, history, societies, and cultures. It is an interdisciplinary program focused on the way countries and governments function around the world, interact with each other on the global stage, and how those interactions affect other countries.
Urban and Regional Studies
Urban and Regional Studies is an interdisciplinary approach toward examining and understanding the broad range of problems and challenges associated with the nation's cities and regional areas. There are many career opportunities in community development, urban/regional planning, local government and local government management.
History
The History program fosters diverse communities and multicultural connections while equipping students with critical analysis, information literacy, and writing skills for careers in various fields such as education, law, museums, public service, and more.
Pre-Law
The Pre-Law program at Minnesota State Mankato is a pre-major, which means that it is done in conjunction with another academic major. Pre-majors do not have a set curriculum, although there are some courses that are recommended in preparing for law school.
Department of Political Science
College of
Humanities and Social Sciences
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.
Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences