Political Science
Examine systems of power and government.
Political science analyzes how governments function at the local, national and global levels. To earn your bachelor’s degree in political science, you’ll:
- Study the key institutions and processes that shape political systems in the U.S. and internationally.
- Evaluate the part political ideology has played — and continues to play — in change and conflict.
- Consider how economic, cultural and religious factors intersect with politics.
At A Glance
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12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
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18Average class size
Possible Careers
Examine systems of power and government.
Political science analyzes how governments function at the local, national and global levels. To earn your bachelor’s degree in political science, you’ll:
- Study the key institutions and processes that shape political systems in the U.S. and internationally.
- Evaluate the part political ideology has played — and continues to play — in change and conflict.
- Consider how economic, cultural and religious factors intersect with politics.
Explore
Student & Alumni Spotlights
No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.
Model UN is the most formative experience I have ever had. Dr. Hulme is amazing. It’s a demanding program and you work very hard in Model UN, but the rewards are worth it. It’s a group of people who are all very smart and driven to succeed. It makes you want to do your best.
Model UN is the most formative experience I have ever had. Dr. Hulme is amazing. It’s a demanding program and you work very hard in Model UN, but the rewards are worth it. It’s a group of people who are all very smart and driven to succeed. It makes you want to do your best.
Get to Know Political Science
Meet the Faculty
The Alma Venture
Dream it, learn it, do it. Through our Venture program, you can design a unique, hands-on learning experience at home or abroad. Find out more about the Alma Venture.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Develop as a leader. Grow as a citizen.
How is power exercised within different political systems? How do nations interact in the global arena? As a political science major, you’ll delve into the theories and dynamics of local, national and international politics.
Our program has significant flexibility, meaning you can select courses that align with your interests. You can explore the political symbolism of public monuments or unpack social media’s role in elections.
You’ll get practical experience, too. Many political science majors compete in Alma’s award-winning Model U.N. team, participate in internships and pursue off-campus study in cities like Washington, D.C. and Chicago.
What You Need to Know
Political science paves the way for a range of fascinating and rewarding careers. Our alumni work in government, public administration, law, business, teaching, journalism and public relations.
If you’re curious about graduate school, you’ll find that political science provides an excellent foundation for advanced study.
Alma students have attended top law schools such as Yale, Harvard and Duke. Others have studied political science at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, Cambridge University and Johns Hopkins University.
Recent Employers of Alma College Political Science
- AmeriCorps
- Apple
- The Dow Chemical Company
- Dow Jones
- Ernst & Young
- General Motors
- Fitch Ratings
- Michigan Governor’s Office
- IBM
- Michigan Department of Education
- North Atlantic Treaty Organization
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
- United States Department of Defense
- United States Department of State
- Warner Norcross and Judd
Get Connected
Student Organizations
Lend your voice to advocacy efforts, get involved with student government or discover professional development opportunities. With 100+ clubs and organizations, there are many ways to make an impact on campus!
