Political Science
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (B.A., B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Political science is the study of politics, law, governance, political movements, and political ideas in the United States and across the world.
Overview
The political science major at Grand Valley equips students with the tools to understand, analyze, and change the world around them. Graduates pursue careers in nonprofit organizations, international affairs, law, business, education, advocacy, and government at all levels.
In this program, you will delve into the workings of Congress and the presidency, the principles of constitutional law, and the complexities of environmental policy. You will also explore human rights issues, foreign policy, international conflicts, participate in the Model European Union, and more.
Small class sizes ensure personal attention from passionate, expert professors. You will have the opportunity to study and intern locally or in Washington, DC, gaining valuable skills in research, writing, speaking, critical thinking, and data analysis. Additionally, a strong network of GVSU political science alumni helps new graduates find opportunities and remain connected with the community.
Department of Political Science
gvsu.edu/polisci
1121
AuSable Hall
(616) 331-2320
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 49,942.27 | 10% |
| $ 60,906.49 | 25% |
| $ 76,657.20 | 50% |
| $ 96,563.00 | 75% |
| $108,798.69 | 90% |
Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
Top skills- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 56,293.34 | 10% |
| $ 79,527.31 | 25% |
| $119,251.36 | 50% |
| $175,504.10 | 75% |
| $277,948.34 | 90% |
Promote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.
Top skills- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Social Perceptiveness
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 36,768.16 | 10% |
| $ 45,978.79 | 25% |
| $ 61,159.97 | 50% |
| $ 83,095.64 | 75% |
| $112,557.80 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Speaking
- Active Listening
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 69,906.76 | 10% |
| $ 96,381.34 | 25% |
| $128,078.06 | 50% |
| $168,891.08 | 75% |
| $217,573.29 | 90% |
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University in Michigan by Employers
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Employers Participate in GVSU Career Events
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Graduates Employed
Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
Grand Valley offers myScholarships
(a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match
with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you
to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
Career Advising
Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.
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