Political Science
Bachelor of Arts
About the Major
How do governments navigate crises? When does the public hold politicians accountable? Who should hold power in society? These are just some of the questions you’ll tackle as a political science major, where you can customize a set of major courses to meet your unique interests. We offer classes about contemporary and historical political challenges, around the world and close to home.
Program Highlights
Our majors pursue opportunities in San Diego, across the United States, and internationally. From internships to conducting research and publishing with faculty, our students are set up for success.
Sample Courses
- American Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
- Political Violence
- Latin American Politics
- American Political Thought
Career Options
A major in political science allows you to pursue a wide range of careers, not only in local, state, and federal government, but also in business, law, journalism, education, nonprofit work, policy, polling, and many other fields. Here are just a few of the places our alumni work:
- Mayor's Office, City of San Diego
- U.S. House of Representatives
- U.S. Court of Appeal, Ninth Circuit
Transferable Skills
- Engagement with current events
- Conducting original research
- Quantitative and qualitative data analysis
- Data literacy
- Writing for the general public, government, or legal professions
- Communicating effectively in writing and speaking
- Media literacy
- Working effectively in teams
Political Science Department
College of Arts and Letters
