Political Science, Bachelor of Arts

Introduction

Open Doors with a Degree in Political Science from Saint Francis University

At its heart, political science is about how people work together, balancing the common good and their individual interests. Political science has much to say about how people work together in politics, the economy, and society—and there’s no better place to combine Franciscan ideals with the study of political science than Saint Francis University. Our flexible, hands-on curriculum allows you to pursue your specific career goals while also gaining real-world experience with research, internships, and more.

Offered: On-Campus

Impactful Internships

We are dedicated to providing our majors the transformational experiences they seek to "become that someone who makes a difference in the lives of others."  One way of reaching this goal is through internships.   

Unique internship features at SFU include:

• Gain experience and earn up to 15 credit hours through internships. 
• Faculty Internship Coordinator &  Adviser to help students find their path.
• SFU's Center for the Study of Government and Law offers students a chance to work on research projects and take on exciting internships.
• University affiliations with The Washington Center and The Washington Internship Institute in Washington, DC lead to internship placements. (Read about Sara's internship).
• Our Ann Eppard Memorial Scholarship and Congressional Internship program offers one scholarship per year for summer congressional internships.

CURRICULUM & COURSES

What You’ll Learn in the Political Science Program

Our students are students for four years; they are citizens for the rest of their lives. This is why our curriculum is designed to give you a solid foundation in government, public policy, ethics, and both American and world politics. Depending on your career goals, adding a concentration, minor, or a second major will focus your learning experience and help you prepare for your chosen career. Our focus on hands-on learning experiences, both in the classroom and through internships in the field, will ensure that you stand out in the job market and in graduate school applications.

Our program introduces you to the fundamentals of political science, research, and theory. Our flexible curriculum also gives you the freedom to choose the path that fits your career goals with a variety of concentrations and minors, as well as the opportunity to add a second major.

Pre-Law: Our multidisciplinary Pre-Law Specialization allows you to study case law, logic, writing, and public speaking while developing and refining your communication skills and critical reasoning abilities to lead you into a career in law or as a paralegal.

International Studies: The International Studies concentration reflects the reality of globalization and will prepare you to take on complex global public policy issues, leading to a potential career in international trade or law, international security, or foreign policy.

Public Administration/Government Service: This concentration focuses on developing your analytical and communication skills, and with a built-in internship, you’ll be well prepared for a career in government service, nonprofit organizations, or private sector management.

Political Communications: Prepare for a media-related career in politics, government relations, or journalism by taking additional Communications courses that will help you develop your writing and public speaking skills and implement communications strategies using the latest technology.

More Exciting Minors: There are several other fields of study that pair well with the Political Science program. Broaden your knowledge of American history with a multidisciplinary American Studies Degree, or add a minor in Women’s Studies or Social Responsibility to explore questions of justice, diversity, and community.

Career Outlook in Political Science

Political Science helps to prepare students for careers in law; local, state, and national government service; interest groups and organizations; business; political campaigns; journalism; and teaching. With our various degree options, including a wide range of concentrations and minors, you will be prepared to go directly into the field or apply for law school and other graduate degree programs. Research experiences and internship opportunities will help you build career contacts and gain real-world experience that will further your career.