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Political Science
Dive into the world of politics, government, and global affairs with a Political Science major. If you’re passionate about understanding how laws are made, how leaders shape society, and how policies impact the world, this major is your gateway to a dynamic career. You’ll explore political institutions, behavior, and theories while honing your analytical and communication skills.
Whether you’re interested in law, government, foreign affairs, media, or nonprofits, this major prepares you for impactful careers. Plus, if law school is your goal, you’ll have access to specialized advising and resources to help you get there.
Experiential Learning
Bradley’s Political Science program offers hands-on experiences that prepare students for careers in government, law, public policy, and beyond.
Faculty-Led Research Projects – Students collaborate with faculty on original research in areas such as public policy, international relations, and political theory. These projects develop analytical skills and provide opportunities for presentations and publications.
Internships with Attorneys and Political Organizations – Students gain real-world experience through internships with attorneys and political organizations. These opportunities provide practical skills and professional connections in the field.
A Semester in Washington, D.C. – Bradley’s Washington, D.C., semester program places students in internships with congressional offices, federal agencies, and national organizations while allowing them to engage directly with policymakers.
Bradley’s Political Science Club – This student-led club hosts discussions and networking events, providing an informal setting for political engagement.
The Political Science Honor Society – Pi Sigma Alpha recognizes academic excellence and connects students with scholarship opportunities, research publications, and professional development resources.
Program Details
Required Courses – 15 hrs.
- PLS 105: Introduction to American Government (3 hrs.)
- PLS 205: Governments Around the Globe (3 hrs.)
- PLS 207: Introduction to Political Thought (3 hrs.)
- PLS 208: Fundamentals of International Relations (3 hrs.)
- PLS 209: Scope and Methods of Political Science (3 hrs.)
American Politics Courses
- PLS 301: Topics in American Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 310: Political Behavior (3 hrs.)
- PLS 311: Political Parties Electorate and Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 312: State and Local Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 314: The U.S. Congress (3 hrs.)
- PLS 315: The U.S. Presidency (3 hrs.)
- PLS 360: Judicial Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 419: Introduction to Public Administration (3 hrs.)
- PLS 420: Public Personnel Administration (3 hrs.)
- PLS 421: The Politics of Regulation (3 hrs.)
- PLS 422: Urban Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 459: Constitutional Law (3 hrs.)
- PLS 460: Constitutional Law (3 hrs.)
- PLS 494: Seminar in American Politics (3 hrs.)
Comparative Politics
- PLS 303: Sub-Saharan African Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 304: Governments of West Europe (3 hrs.)
- PLS 305: Topics in Comparative Government (3 hrs.)
- PLS 305: Topics in Comparative Government (3 hrs.)
- PLS 306: Comparative Public Policy (3 hrs.)
- PLS 491: Seminar in Comparative Politics (3 hrs.)
International Relations
- PLS 302: Topics in International Relations (3 hrs.)
- PLS 317: International Law (3 hrs.)
- PLS 318: International Organization (3 hrs.)
- PLS 319: International Political Economy (3 hrs.)
- PLS 492: Seminar in International Relations (3 hrs.)
- IS 312: American Foreign Policy (3 hrs.)
- IS 410: Globalization in World Affairs (3 hrs.)
Political Theory
- PLS 300: Topics in Political Thought (3 hrs.)
- PLS 307: Classical Political Philosophy (3 hrs.)
- PLS 308: Modern Political Philosophy (3 hrs.)
- PLS 309: Gender and Sexuality in Political Thought (3 hrs.)
- PLS 407: American Political Thought (3 hrs.)
- PLS 493: Seminar in Political Theory (3 hrs.)
Senior Seminar Capstone Experience.
- PLS 491: Seminar in Comparative Politics (3 hrs.)
- PLS 492: Seminar in International Relations (3 hrs.)
- PLS 493: Seminar in Political Theory (3 hrs.)
- PLS 494: Seminar in American Politics (3 hrs.)
Career Opportunities
- Politician
- Policy advisor
- Constituent service employee
- White House staff member
- Diplomat
- Foreign service officer
- Attorney
- Paralegal
- Campaign operative
- Pollster
- Lobbyist
- Nonprofit employee
- Public affairs journalist
- State, federal or legislative staff member
- Government employee
Minors
Government impacts every career field—so why not understand how it works? This flexible minor starts with American Government and lets you tailor courses to your interests, whether that’s law, diplomacy, media, or public service.
Take your learning beyond the classroom with study abroad or a semester in Washington, D.C. Plus, with only 15 credit hours, it easily fits into your four-year plan.
Gain a global perspective with this minor that explores world events, international relations, and cultural influences. Taught by expert faculty, including Fulbright Scholars, this program pairs well with political science, international business, foreign language, and more.
With just 18 credit hours, it’s an easy way to expand your career potential in an increasingly connected world.
Thinking about law school? This minor builds the analytical and communication skills you’ll need—without making you memorize laws. Instead, you’ll learn how to think critically about legal principles, solve problems, and navigate real-world legal challenges.
Whether you pursue law, graduate studies, or another professional field, these skills will set you apart.