To graduate with a major in political science, students must complete a minimum of 36 credits in POLI courses with a grade of "C" or better. These 36 credits must include a minimum of five three-credit lower level (100 and 200 level) courses and 21 credits of upper level (300 and 400 level) courses. Students have an option of completing the major with either a single subfield concentration or a dual subfield concentration.

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Major program requirements worksheet

The department offers minor programs in Political Science, International Affairs, Political Thought, Applied Politics, Legal Policy, and Public Administration as well as a certificate in Public Administration and Policy. Each minor has its own requirements and no grade lower than a "C" in amy course may count toward the minor.

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Qualified students who are interested in leadership positions in government agencies and their affiliates may pursue a certificate in public administration and policy. Details of this program are listed in the Administrative and Managerial Sciences webpage.



The Department of Political Science and the Public Policy Graduate Program cooperate in offering qualified students a joint program leading to both a bachelor's degree in Political Science and a master's degree in Policy Sciences. Students in this program earn both degrees in 150 credits over five years, as opposed to 156 credits and six years if pursued separately.

An honors program is available for qualified majors. This program is especially recommended for students who intend to pursue graduate or professional studies or for those who wish to demonstrate specific skills. A minimum 3.25 GPA overall and 3.5 GPA in political science is required. A complete description of the program and its requirements is available from the department office or honors advisor.