Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science

Study government. Understand policy. Learn how decisions shape communities at every level. MCLA’s Political Science program combines the study of political systems with the practical implementation of public policy, preparing students to analyze issues locally, nationally, and globally.

On This Trail

Conflict Prevention and Resolution Speaker Series

History House Herald

Outcomes

Pi Sigma Alpha, Eta Kappa

Concentrations

Turn Political Insight Into Real-World Impact.

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Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Program Delivery: On Campus
Next Term: Fall 2026
Requirements: 42 Credits for the Major

Why Choose MCLA’s Political Science Program?

Understanding the political process is the first step toward influencing it. At MCLA, Political Science is grounded in active citizenship and practical skill development. This equips students with the analytical tools, policy knowledge, and practical experience to engage in real political challenges.

Practical Policy Application

This program moves beyond theory. Students study how policies are created and implemented, including courses such as Inequality & Social Policy and Environmental Law, exploring how legislation impacts communities.

Local to Global Scope

The curriculum addresses political issues and institutions at the local, state, national and global levels. In courses such as State and Local Politics and U.S. Foreign Policy, students gain a deeper understanding of specific levels of government while also recognizing their interconnection.

Interdisciplinary Edge

Political Science courses such as Political Economy and Political Psychology highlight connections across disciplines. Electives in Statistics, Environmental Studies and Philosophy further build analytical and quantitative skills valued in many professions.

Career Outlook & Program Outcomes

What This Degree Takes You

A Political Science degree prepares students to understand institutions, analyze social problems, interpret policy, and communicate complex ideas clearly. Graduates pursue careers that require critical thinking, problem solving, effective communication, and social and political awareness.

Career Opportunities

Law (with further study)
Government and public administration at the local, state, and national levels
Policy analysis
Journalism and political communication
Public service and nonprofit leadership
Business and finance
International affairs
Advocacy and activism
Graduate study in political science or related fields

Political Science Degrees

MCLA offers several Political Science degree pathways. Click below to learn more about specific curriculum structures and course requirements.

Political Science

B.A., Major

Political Science

Minor

Pre-Law

Concentration

Skills You Will Develop

Oral Communication

Develop debate and public speaking skills in courses like Model UN and complimentary analytical skills in courses like Political Psychology and Campaigns and Elections.

Policy Analysis

Learn to evaluate legislation and public policy through courses such as Inequality & Social Policy and Constitutional Law.

Global Perspective

Understand international systems through Comparative Government and Politics of War & Conflict.

RESEARCH & ANALYSIS

Move beyond opinion. POSC 210: Political Science Research & Methods builds quantitative and analytical skills essential for policy evaluation and graduate study.

Spotlight Courses

POSC 110: Introduction to Political Science Major Seminar

Prepares new history and political science majors to make the most of their college years academically, professionally, and personally.

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POSC 215: Topics in Political Science

Engages current issues in U.S. and/or global political science through an examination of important cases, an exploration of the relevant political science research, and the development of policy-oriented responses.

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POSC 340: Inequality and Social Policy

Examines various forms of inequality, how they intersect, and the social policies and programs designed to address them.

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POSC 450: Career Readiness Workshop

Provides senior students majoring in Political Science with an opportunity and framework to reflect on their past work in the major and the wider liberal arts as well as look forward to opportunities and challenges after graduation.

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