Political Science: American Government (B.S.)

Gain Hands-On Experience

A major in Political Science is perfect for students who love to be actively engaged in the political world. This degree involves the study of government policies, the function of governing institutions, and the interconnections of political parties. Political Science majors can emphasize their studies in Foreign Affairs, American government, Public Policy, or Public Administration. 
 
The American Government emphasis is available to students who wish to concentrate on the American political process. This includes the study of national politics, including the three branches of government, state and local political institutions, public opinion, and voting behavior.

## Highlighted Career Paths

Graduates with a degree in Political Science, with an American Government emphasis, have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

Explore All Career Paths

Legislative Director

Legislative Directors work in the offices of Congress to help teams develop public policy. They move agendas forward, plan initiatives, and supervise the staff.

Lawyer

A lot of Political Science students continue their education in law school. Political Science students are prepared with essential research, communication, political, and analytical skills necessary for law.

Lobbyist

Political Science majors will be prepared to negotiate with officials and influence policy for their employers. A career in lobbying doesn't require a graduate degree.

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts study political systems to understand historical trends and predict the outcome of specific policies. They closely monitor political events and trends to write forecasted reports for government agencies and political platforms.

Political Consultant

Political Consultants help political campaigns make decisions on field strategy and voting efforts. They organize advertising efforts to elevate their candidate and political party.

City Planner

City planners decide where to place a community's streets, buildings, businesses, and homes. They work with local governments and companies to make those decisions.

Explore All Career Paths

## Getting Started

If you are interested in Political Science and American Government, start with one of the following courses:

POLSC110 - American Government

See Course Details

POLSC150 - Introduction to Comparative Politics

See Course Details

POLSC311 - State and Local Government

See Course Details

4-Year Plan

See Example Class Plan

See all required courses

## Related Majors

History (B.A.)

Study ancient and modern cultures and how they shape the world today.

Get Involved

History Education

Teach historical knowledge and critical thinking skills to middle and high school students.

Get Involved

Political Science: Foreign Affairs (B.S.)

Study relationships and policies between different countries around the world.

Get Involved

Public Policy and Administration: Public Administration

Manage and implement government policies and public services.

Get Involved

Public Policy and Administration: Public Policy

Study how governments create and implement laws to solve public problems.

Get Involved

Social Studies Education Composite: History Endorsement

Teach history and social studies subjects in middle and high schools.

Get Involved

Social Studies Education Composite: American Government Endorsement

Teach United States government and civics in middle and high schools.

Get Involved

## Next Steps

Learn How to Apply

Get Involved

Change Your Major

Get Involved