Top Political Science Degree Programs: A Comprehensive Guide
Political science is an academic discipline that focuses on the analysis and research of political systems, ideologies, behaviors, and institutions. The study of political science opens up a wide range of career opportunities for students interested in politics, public policy, government, advocacy, international relations, law, and more. If you are looking to earn a degree in political science, read on to discover the top programs available in the United States.
1. Harvard University
Harvard University is consistently ranked as one of the top political science programs in the country. The Department of Government offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as doctoral programs focusing on the areas of American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political philosophy.
2. Stanford University
Stanford University’s Department of Political Science offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a PhD in Political Science. Students can specialize in areas such as comparative politics, international relations, political methodology, and political theory.
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate programs in political science and a graduate program that leads to a PhD in Political Science. Students can choose to specialize in one of six subfields, including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, methodology, political economy, and political theory.
4. University of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a PhD in Political Science. Students can specialize in comparative politics, international relations, political methodology, political theory, American politics, and public policy.
5. Princeton University
Princeton University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in political science. The Department of Politics offers subfields in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and methodology.
6. Yale University
Yale University’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in political science. Specialization areas include American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and methodology.
7. University of Chicago
The University of Chicago’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a PhD in Political Science. Students can specialize in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and methodology.
8. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in political science. Students can specialize in one of six subfields, including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, methodology, political theory, and public policy.
9. New York University
NYU’s Department of Politics offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in political science. Students can specialize in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and political economy.
10. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a PhD in Political Science. Students can specialize in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and methodology.
FAQ
1. What can I do with a political science degree?
A degree in political science can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including roles in politics, government, policy analysis, advocacy, campaign management, journalism, law, and international relations.
2. How long does it take to earn a political science degree?
This varies depending on the level of degree you pursue. An undergraduate degree typically takes four years to complete, while a master’s degree takes an additional one to two years. A doctoral degree can take four to six years to complete.
3. What skills do I need to succeed in political science?
Skills useful for political science majors include critical thinking, research analysis, writing, communication, and problem-solving. Strong interpersonal skills and a knowledge of law and government are also important.
4. Is a political science degree worth it?
A political science degree can be worth it for individuals who are passionate about politics and government. The degree can lead to various career opportunities, and those with a political science degree can make significant contributions to society by working in roles that influence policy and legislation. However, it’s important to research potential job opportunities and consider the cost of the degree before deciding if it is worth it for you.