Political Science Department

The Department of Political Science offers undergraduate programs leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Bachelor of Science in Public Service, and minors in both fields. Students learn how to think critically, write effectively, and express their opinions with precision and humility. Our students go on to work in and around politics at all levels, though many use their education in fields seemingly disconnected from government since the skills they develop are applicable in a wide variety of areas.

Political Science Features

Political Science students choose between two tracks: general and international. In each track, students take a core group of courses and elective courses in applied competency subfields. The core and subfields are designed to develop skills and expose students to a variety of related topics. The Department emphasizes real world application through experiential learning, guest speakers, and field trips to Harrisburg and DC. All majors are required to complete a capstone project in POLI 399 Senior Seminar that encourages the exploration of research that is interesting and useful for each individual student.

Public Administration Features

The Public Service major provides students with professional skills for careers in government and other public sector organizations. This major is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in public management practices and behaviors; it also exposes students to areas of specialization within the field of public administration. Public Service students take core courses in government, policy analysis, budgeting, financial administration, and personnel administration and then select a group of electives to complete the program.

Internship Policy

Students in both majors have the opportunity to complete an internship with governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and law firms to complement and supplement their course work. A student can count a maximum of six internship credits toward completion of the electives within the political science or public administration majors.

Career Opportunities

Political Science and Public Service are majors that opens doors to jobs in both the public and private sectors. Our students use their educational foundation, research skills, and solid communication abilities to work in a wide range of areas. Our network of alumni in Harrisburg is notable for its breadth and range, and our pipeline from classroom to internship to career is famous in the state government. Majors are also prepared to pursue graduate study across a mixture of fields, including international relations, public administration, and law.

Pre-Law Program

Students who plan to apply to law schools may select their major from a wide range of fields depending upon their interests. The scope of law is broad and offers room for individuals of varied educational and intellectual backgrounds. The Department of Political Science offers numerous courses for majors and non-majors that will help prepare students for law school.

Programs

Accelerated Program

Political Science, B.A. or Public Service, B.S. with accelerated 4+1 M.P.A. in Public Administration

Major

Minor

Courses

Political Science