Political Science

  • Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (B.A., B.S.)
  • Minor

Political science students learn to analyze political phenomena from the perspectives of the four major disciplinary subfields: political theory, American politics, comparative politics, and international relations.

Program Offerings at Grand Valley

Students who choose to major in political science pursue either a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.). A minor in political science is also offered.

Coursework

Upon completion of the foundational requirements in the four subfields, students are afforded considerable latitude to choose among a wide range of upper-level course offerings in each subfield.

Career Options

Graduates of the political science program may pursue careers in fields like:

  • Business
  • Campaigns and elections
  • Diplomacy and foreign affairs
  • Education
  • Issue advocacy
  • Law
  • Mass communication and public opinion
  • Public policy and administration

Why Study Political Science at Grand Valley?

  • Political science courses at Grand Valley are taught by knowledgeable and student-focused professors.
  • Introductory courses are limited to 45 students, and other courses are limited to 25 or 35 students.
  • Small class sizes enable a strong emphasis on writing, analysis and research.
  • Students can study and work at an internship in Washington D.C. for a semester through our affiliation with The Washington Center.

For More Information

Department of Political Science
www.gvsu.edu/polisci
(616) 331-2320
Admissions Office
www.gvsu.edu/admissions

“The Grand Valley State political science program offers classes with a wide range of subject matter, class format, and styles of teaching which allowed me to develop the skills necessary to succeed in both graduate studies and in my career. The program gave me a strong background in research, writing, and critical analysis. The political science department has an excellent reputation among graduate schools and employers throughout the Midwest, and that reputation continues to grow stronger each year.”

Mike Zundel
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY, B.S. '06 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN LAW SCHOOL, J.D. '09

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