There is an increased demand for public policy analysis in both government and non-government organizations, supporting .
Political Science job outlook is 7% (which is faster than average) While the private sector job growth slowed sharply from 4.3% in 2022 to 2.3% in 2023, the government has seen a much more rapid pace of hiring. Public sector job growth jumped from a modest 1% in 2022 to 2.7% in 2023 – the highest year-over-year growth rate since 1990, according to Fitch Ratings.
The political science major at ̨ÍåSwag provides students with foundational courses in the major subfields of the discipline: International Relations, American Politics, Comparative Politics and Public Policy, with the opportunity to build coursework in these subfield specializations of your choice. The major also includes a political science research methods course as part of your senior thesis sequence.
Annual median salary is more than $120,000 (U.S.) for political scientists per year
Program Benefits
- The BS in Political Science provides students with a more focused exploration of the quantitative side of Political Science. Students will choose from Mathematics, Economics, and Computer Science coursework to hone their quantitative abilities. They will also have the ability to dive deeper into the Political Science curriculum through additional Political Science electives.
- The requirements for the BS in Political Science allow for up to 42 credits of Political Science coursework, 18 credits in quantitative training through Mathematics, Economics, and Computer Science coursework, but still preserves a strong foundation in the Liberal Arts through the general education curriculum.
- With 33 free electives, students also will be able to pursue outside interests and various minors.
- Internship opportunities allow students to explore potential career paths through placements in Buffalo, Washington, D.C., and internationally.
- Experiential learning opportunities such as Model United Nations and moot court complement and extend in-class learning.
- Capstone thesis requirement gives students the opportunity to do in-depth research on a topic of their choice.
- Our pre-law studies program has an excellent track record with law school admissions and subsequent success in legal practice.
- : Students can enhance their major by pursuing the environmental studies specialization, which integrates environmental history, policy, and science to prepare graduates for careers in a green economy.
- Consider a Double Major with Criminal Justice, BS!
Career Outlook
Our graduates possess knowledge and intellectual abilities that are highly valued and adaptable to a wide array of careers and a rapidly changing work environment. Many become informed and engaged community members and leaders.
- Lawyer
- Law enforcement officer
- Legal assistant
- Elected official
- Campaign coordinator
- Legislative assistant
- Lobbyist or interest group advocate
- Public sector and service employee
- Journalist
- Diplomat or consul
History & Political Science Blog
The History & Political Science Department Blog provides the very latest on what our students and faculty are up to.
Pre-Law Association
The PLSA is a club for prospective law school applicants and students who are interested in law and legal careers. Membership is open to students from all majors.
American Association of University Women
Focused on empowering women, the AAUW is a national women's advocacy organization.
History & Government Club
The History & Government Club is involved in activities both on and off campus that celebrate our rich history and fascinating government.