To make change, understand power. 

Our lives are affected by politics every day, and political events are happening all around us. Political Science is the study of politics and power in its many forms, including protest movements and revolutions, law-making and criminal justice, war and international conflicts, human rights violations and efforts to stop them, campaigns and elections in the U.S. and around the world, and competing political ideas and ideologies.

Our courses provide the tools to analyze and understand all of these things and more, and they also help students develop skills in research, analysis, writing, and speaking that are necessary for success in a variety of professions. Our graduates work in nonprofit organizations, international affairs, law, business, education, advocacy groups, and in local, state, and national government.

The GVSU Political Science Department offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Political Science. We also host an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations.


Events

Reflections on Patriotism

April 18, 2024 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Do you consider yourself a patriot? Though most Americans still identify as being patriotic, the question of patriotism has become increasingly polarizing among Americans. A 2023 Gallup poll revealed...

African Ball

April 21, 2024 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

The African Ball is a celebratory event that aims to showcase the rich cultural diversity of the African continent through music, dance, fashion, cuisine, and art. It's an opportunity to...

GVSU Education & Teacher Fair 2024

April 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Meet with district representatives to discuss opportunities for teachers, psychologists/school counselors, speech pathologists, therapists, social workers, coaches, and more! Bring resumes and dress...

Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy Celebration of Graduates

April 25, 2024 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

As the newest class of Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy (CLA) fellows prepare to enter their next season of life, we invite you to celebrate their journeys and commitment to practicing ethical and...

Traverse City Alumni Social with President Mantella

May 1, 2024 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Join GVSU Alumni Relations & President Mantella at alumni-owned Rove Winery. You're invited to connect with fellow alumni, meet President Mantella, hear an update on the university, and...

GVSU Denver Alumni Happy Hour

May 10, 2024 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Join us at the ViewHouse BallPark in Denver to connect with fellow alumni! Enjoy games, cabanas, and picnic tables in the ViewHouse courtyard. Tickets are $30 and include appetizers and 2 drink tickets. Parking:...

Understanding & Preventing Burnout - Virtual Workshop

May 15, 2024 12:00 PM

Feeling overwhelmed and on the verge of burnout? You're not alone. In today's demanding work environment, many professionals struggle with chronic stress and its negative effects. Join...

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News

Retirement Tribute: Professor Michelle Miller-Adams

Retirement Tribute: Professor Michelle Miller-Adams

The Political Science Department congratulates Professor Michelle Miller-Adams on her retirement.

Apr 15, 2024

GV in DC Scholarship Winner: Jackson Tisdale

GV in DC Scholarship Winner: Jackson Tisdale

Jackson Tisdale is the recipient of the GV in DC Scholarship for the 2023-24 academic year.

Apr 5, 2024

Student named as Truman Scholarship Finalist

Student named as Truman Scholarship Finalist

Junior Nancy Hoogwerf becomes fifth Laker to receive honor.

Mar 20, 2024

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Spotlights

Toby Hutchins

Toby Hutchins, Vice President of Fennville Board of Education

Dorothy Sewe

Aids Refugee Relocation Efforts

Khalil Rahal

Khalil Rahal, Assistant County Executive at Wayne County at Wayne County

Madelaine Cleghorn

Attorney for The Bruman Group, PLLC

Thomas Bell

Director of the Center for Educator Preparation and Director of the Urban Institute for Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice.

Andrew Wilson

Senior Director of Episode Development Analytics at Signify Health

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Page last modified October 31, 2023