Political Science, B.A., B.S.
Political Science is the study of politics in its many forms, including law-making and criminal justice, war and international conflicts, protest movements and revolutions, campaigns and elections, political ideas and ideologies, and human rights. Our courses provide the tools to understand these phenomena, and they also develop skills in research, analysis, writing, critical thinking, and speaking.
Program Overview
Students can choose a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. A minor and a teachable minor are also available.
Visit gvsu.edu/polisci for more information.
Why Study Political Science at Grand Valley?
- Small class sizes ensure students get personal attention from expert, student-focused professors who are passionate about political science.
- Students can study and intern for a semester or summer in Washington, DC, through our partnership with The Washington Center. Local internships are also available.
- Students gain research, writing, speaking, critical thinking, and data analysis skills valued by graduate programs and employers.
- Studying political science helps prepare students for success in a range of career fields, including nonprofit organizations, international affairs, law, business, education, advocacy groups, and in local, state, and national government.
- We have a strong network of GVSU political science alumni across
the country and around the world who are eager to help new graduates
find opportunities.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
- Face To Face
Coursework
Students select courses from a wide range of offerings, including popular subjects such as:
- Congress & presidency
- Constitutional law
- Environmental policy
- Human rights
- International conflict
- Model European Union
- U.S. foreign policy
- U.S. political thought
Combined Degree Programs
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Department of Political Science
gvsu.edu/polisci
1121
AuSable Hall
(616) 331-2320
“The supportive faculty, small classes, and internship opportunities developed a foundation for my future success. Through the Political Science major, I gained the research, writing, quantitative, and communication skills necessary to compete at the graduate level and in the workforce. The program also prepared me to be a more thoughtful and engaged citizen.”
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY, B.S. ‘19