Political Science, B.A. Public Affairs Concentration

The Public Affairs concentration provides Political Science majors sufficient breadth and depth of knowledge in public policy, public affairs, and public administration to give students the academic background necessary to succeed in related jobs and professions and to prepare them for advanced studies in these fields. 

PROGRAM DISTINCTIONS

• Faculty members are nationally recognized scholars who are committed to undergraduate education.
• The undergraduate political science curriculum offers a broad liberal arts education along with a comprehensive understanding of the nature and functioning of the political process, in addition to a sound foundation for graduate study or careers that require knowledge of governance and the political process.

THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE

• Internship experience with local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and political campaigns.
• Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research; undergraduate research scholarships available.
• A choice of electives in American politics, law, international relations, comparative political systems, public policy, and administration.
• Community engagement through service-learning course components.
• Individual faculty advising sessions each semester.
• Participation in the Political Awareness Club, Model United Nations Club, and Pi Sigma Alpha (the political science honor society).
• The Washington Summer Study Session offered every other summer for three weeks in Washington, D.C.

AFTER GRADUATION

• Provides preparation for careers that require knowledge of governance and the political process.
• Graduates pursue careers in a range of fields, including state, local, and federal government; nonprofit organizations; and international affairs. Potential careers include: 
  • Lawyer
  • Lobbyist
  • Archivist
  • Public Relations Manager
  • Urban Planner
  • Judge
  • Professor
  • Public Affairs Specialist
  • Policy Analyst
• Provides preparation for graduate study in political science, public administration, and nonprofit management.

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