Political Science (B.A./B.S.)
Unlock the world of politics
Earning your degree in political science provides you with a comprehensive understanding of government systems, political behavior and policy formulation at both the domestic and international level. You will develop critical thinking, research and analytical skills, preparing you for roles in public policy, law and advocacy. Through studying political theories, governance and legal frameworks, you will be equipped to influence public decision-making and pursue careers in public administration, diplomacy or political consulting.
Fast Facts
- Close student/faculty interaction
- Development of critical thinking and writing skills
- Good degree for double major
- Cross cultural/national understanding of political processes
- High rate of graduation in 4-5 years
- BA offered in person
- BS offered in person or online
Prepare yourself for a wide range of careers
Gain more than a degree—our Political Science B.A/B.S. degree programs include three undergraduate certificates in public policy analysis, political data analysis and methodology, and politics and law. These credentials give you a competitive advantage in the job market and prepare you for a wide range of careers. Need more reasons to start your application?
- Online and in-person learning: Maintain your personal commitments while finishing your B.S. degree in Political Science either online or in person.
- Opportunities to get involved: Complete internships, build your professional portfolio and work closely with expert faculty.
- Transition to accelerated graduate programs: Complete your bachelor's degree while enrolling in University of Idaho’s 4+1 MPA program as well as the 3+3 Law School program.
- Affordable tuition: Pay in-state tuition with our online program no matter where you live.
Explore your future in political science
The B.A./B.S. in Political Science is for curious and inquisitive individuals who:
- Are passionate about understanding political systems and their impact on society.
- Enjoy critical thinking and analyzing complex issues from multiple perspectives.
- Have a desire to make a positive difference in their community or the world.
- Are motivated to engage in research and data analysis to support informed decision-making.
With a B.A./B.S. in Political Science you’ll gain the tools to evaluate policies, analyze both domestic and international political dynamics and learn about the intersection between politics and law. Graduates are prepared for roles in politics, communications, public affairs, human resources and other civil servant positions!
Find a Career
Connect With Career Services
A B.A./B.S. in Political Science is the perfect preparation for the one-year Master of Public Administration (4+1 MPA) program in the Department of Politics and Philosophy. This accelerated MPA program is for those interested in careers in local government and the public sector (including the nonprofit sector). The 4+1 program is suitable for students who are committed to an uninterrupted transition to graduate school and who wish to earn a master’s degree in just one year.
The 3 + 3 program gives students who are interested in attending law school at University of Idaho the ability to complete their undergraduate degree in either political science or philosophy and their Juris Doctor in six years. The 3 + 3 program is established in the College of Law and requires students to comply with a number of admission requirements, such as maintenance of a 3.3 GPA, delivery of an LSAT score at or above Law’s median and most importantly, certification from the undergraduate program that all baccalaureate requirements will be met with completion of the first year Law curriculum.
Our 3 + 3 program is designed to serve students in the state of Idaho by providing them with a top tier undergraduate education and needed economic relief in pursuit of a legal career. Our program begins with sound general education and disciplinary advising — that is, we help students make the most of their general education and their disciplinary curriculum's. Next, we provide a path that allows us to double count disciplinary and law school credit in their senior year. This is relatively easy for political science and philosophy because both fields contain footings for the study of law that are based in inquiry: public law for political science and philosophy of law for philosophy.
U of I’s College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) awards approximately $1,400,000 annually in scholarships. Contact class@uidaho.edu for details on college-specific scholarships. You can also apply for scholarships in the Department of Politics and Philosophy.
Meet fellow students, refine your leadership skills and participate in professional development workshops by joining one of our student groups, such as the Pre-Law Society or the PoliSci Society.
As a political science student, you can get practical experience in policy analysis and data analysis, laying the groundwork for a career in the legal field. The experiential learning opportunities in our department will improve your writing, analytical and intercultural skills while building your professional portfolio.
- Cook Undergraduate Research Journal (student-run research journal)
- West Coast Model EU (simulation conference)
- European Politics Experience (departmental study abroad program)
Talk with your advisor or department chair to find internship placements with state and national legislative offices, political campaigns and non-profit organizations. Expand your network and make an impact!