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Political Science

Major, Minor

The School of Humanities

The Political Science program prepares students to understand how governments work, how policies are made, and how power, law, and public opinion shape society. Students explore political systems, public policy, and global issues while developing strong skills in critical thinking, research, writing, and ethical reasoning.

Political Science professor sitting with students and giving a lecture

Opportunities & Outcomes

Graduates of the Political Science major develop an understanding of political systems, public policy, and governmental processes at the local, national, and global levels. Students strengthen skills in critical analysis, research, and effective written and oral communication while learning to evaluate political ideas, institutions, and behavior.

Career Pathways

A Political Science degree prepares students for careers in public service, law, policy, and leadership, as well as for graduate and professional study.

Government & Public Service

  • Local, state, or federal government staff roles
  • Legislative or policy aide
  • Public administration or civil service positions
  • City, county, or agency program coordinator

Law, Policy & Advocacy

  • Law school or legal studies pathways*
  • Policy analyst or research assistant
  • Advocacy or public affairs coordinator
  • Government relations or lobbying assistant

Politics, Campaigns & Public Affairs

  • Campaign staff or field organizer
  • Political communications or messaging assistant
  • Voter outreach or civic engagement coordinator
  • Political consulting support roles

International Relations & Global Affairs

  • International organization or NGO staff
  • Diplomacy or foreign service pathways*
  • Global policy or international program coordinator
  • Humanitarian or development organization roles

Nonprofit, Community & Mission-Driven Work

  • Nonprofit program or development coordinator
  • Community outreach or engagement specialist
  • Social justice or public interest organization roles
  • Faith-based or service-focused advocacy work

Business, Communication & Research

  • Corporate public affairs or compliance roles
  • Communications, media, or research assistant positions
  • Market or policy research analyst
  • Consulting or organizational strategy support roles

Graduate & Professional Pathways

  • Graduate study in political science, public policy, or public administration
  • Law school or legal studies programs*
  • International relations, public affairs, or nonprofit leadership programs

*Additional certification or graduate study may be required for some roles.

Programs of Study Offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Political Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a Pre-Law Concentration
  • Political Science Minor

Faculty Spotlight

Brian Borlas, PhD

Brian Borlas, PhD

Professor of Political Science

James Palmer, JD

James Palmer, JD

Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice and Political Science

Neil Wright, PhD

Neil Wright, PhD

Associate Professor of Political Science

Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Arts

Bonaventure Program

Every QU student’s foundation for our liberal arts education, involving service learning, signature courses, writing, technological literacy. Program Requirements

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