Political Science BA
- Major
- BA
- Hybrid
- In-Person
- Online
- Greeley
- Online
4 Years
Program Overview
Explore the big questions that shape governments, societies and global relations. In UNC’s Political Science BA program, you’ll study American politics, international relations, comparative politics and political philosophy. All while gaining the skills employers and graduate schools value most — research, analysis, writing and critical thinking.
Small, discussion-based classes mean you’ll work closely with faculty mentors who bring award-winning teaching and real-world experience, including international research, into the classroom. Your learning won’t stop there. You’ll have opportunities to apply what you learn through internships with state and local government, nonprofit organizations, congressional offices, political campaigns and more. Many students also study abroad, broadening their perspective and preparing for careers in an interconnected world.
With flexible course options and hands-on experiences, you’ll build a strong foundation for careers in law, government, public policy, international affairs, education and beyond. No matter your path, you’ll graduate ready to make a difference.
The Political Science BA at UNC provides a strong foundation in American politics, international relations, political philosophy and comparative politics. Coursework emphasizes analytical, research and writing skills that prepare you to think critically and reflect on political values and public policy.
The Political Science BA at UNC requires 120 credits, including:
- Liberal Arts Curriculum (31 credits):
General education courses in writing, math, arts and humanities, social sciences, natural and physical sciences, multicultural studies and international studies. To complete the LAC efficiently, be sure to include at least one course with an International Studies (IS) designation and one with a Multicultural Studies (MS) designation. - Required Major Courses (36 credits):
You’ll take courses across four areas—American Politics, International Relations, Political Philosophy and Comparative Politics—plus electives in political science to reach 36 credits. - University-Wide Credits (53 credits):
Additional courses to meet the 120-credit graduation requirement. These may include a minor, electives, or other areas of interest.
Qualified students may also apply for the Honors Program in Political Science. Internship opportunities require permission of the Internship Coordinator, and students must complete at least 9 credits in political science before beginning an internship. While students may take up to 13 internship credits, only 3 credits may count toward the major.
Students work closely with an assigned major advisor each semester to plan their coursework. View full degree requirements in the academic catalog button below.
Political Science Minor
Gain a strong foundation in government and international politics while sharpening your communication and critical thinking skills. This 18-credit program offers flexibility to explore political systems, global issues, and policy. Additional opportunities for internships at the local, state, and international levels. For detailed course requirements, visit the academic catalog button below.
Learn More – Political Science Minor
Legal Studies Minor
Build a broad understanding of law and its role in U.S. and international institutions. This 21-credit program is a strong option for pre-law students or any major where legal knowledge adds value. You’ll study the theory, structure, and practice of law, with upper-division coursework in specialized areas. For detailed course requirements, visit the academic catalog button below.
This plan is a recommended schedule to complete this bachelor’s degree in 4 years. Courses are subject to availability. Students must consult with their major advisor to receive information on any additional graduation requirements and course sequence guidance.
Why Political Science at UNC?
Real-World Experience
Take what you learn beyond the classroom. Political Science majors gain hands-on experience through internships with state and local government, nonprofit organizations, congressional offices, campaigns and more. Study abroad opportunities also expand your perspective.
Career & Graduate Success
Our UNC Political Science alumni have worked at the United Nations, U.S. Congress, White House and State Department. Many continue on to top law and graduate schools such as Yale, Georgetown, Berkeley and George Washington. You’ll also find alumni shaping careers in government administration, nonprofits, law and higher education.
Faculty Excellence & Research
Our faculty are active scholars who bring their expertise into the classroom. They’ve earned support from the Ford Foundation and the National Endowment for the Humanities, and most recently, Professor Bownas received a Fulbright Scholar Award for research in Nepal.
Explore Power, Policy and Leadership
Faculty Spotlight
FACULTY
"It’s a really interesting case study for a political science and social scientist of development, or maybe you could say failed development because it’s one of those places that has kind of fallen behind in terms of modernization and industrialization even though there is a lot of aid going to Nepal."
Professor Richard Bownas, Ph.D.
Department of Political Science and International Affairs
Professor Bownas received a Fulbright Scholar Award for study in Nepal from January to July 2024.
Where Your Degree Can Take You
Government & Public Service
Legislative aide, city or county administrator, program director, policy analyst, foreign service officer, or intelligence analyst.
Politics & Campaigns
Campaign manager, political consultant, elected or appointed official, lobbyist.
Law & Justice
Attorney, paralegal, public policy analyst, or legal researcher.
Education & Research
K–12 government teacher, higher education professional, or researcher, professor.
Nonprofit & Advocacy
Human rights advocate, NGO administrator, program manager, policy or fundraising specialist.
Communications & Media
Public relations specialist, political correspondent, or digital media writer.
Corporate & Business
Manager, executive, or policy advisor in private-sector organizations.
Graduate School Opportunities
Many Political Science graduates go on to law school or advanced degrees in public policy, international relations, political science, and related fields at top institutions including Yale, Georgetown, George Washington, Cornell, Berkeley and Vanderbilt.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Political Science & International Affairs
The Department of Political Science and International Affairs offers two main college degrees: Political Science and International Affairs. We also offer a minor in Political Science for students who want to add it to another major.
- PoliticalScience.InternationalAffairs@unco.edu
- (970) 351-2707
- McKee Hall 318