What is Political Science?
Political science is the study of how societies at the local, state, national and
international levels govern themselves and interact with one another.
The political science program at the University of Wyoming gives our students an opportunity
to dive deep into subfields such as American politics, comparative government, international
relations, political philosophy, public law and public administration. You'll also
have the opportunity to analyze government structures and processes, citizens' influence
on government, policy content, philosophical concepts and tradition, political systems
of other nations and conflict resolution.
Customize your learning experience and studies by choosing one of our School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies minors:
As a political science major at UW, you'll receive a comprehensive understanding of how societies govern themselves and interact on a global scale. With concentrations in American politics, comparative government, international relations, political philosophy, public law and public administration, both the B.A. and B.S. degrees offer a solid foundation in political theory and practice. Here is just a sampling of some of the classes you might take as a political science major:
- Non-Western Political Cultures
- Politics of State and Local Government
- Politics and Media
- Energy Security
- Presidential Elections
View the full bachelor of arts in political science degree program curriculum.
View the full bachelor of science in political science degree program curriculum.
Get Your Political Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Just Five Years
The political science 5-year B.A./M.A. program at UW allows highly qualified students to begin graduate coursework while completing their undergraduate degree, enabling them to earn a master's degree more efficiently. Political science majors with a cumulative major GPA of 3.5 or higher may be invited to apply during the second semester of their junior year by submitting an application, two letters of recommendation (one from a political science faculty member) and unofficial transcripts for review by the M.A. Director and Committee. Provisional acceptance requires students to take the GRE, with scores considered for final admission upon completing the bachelor's degree
Learn MoreWhat Can You Do With a Political Science Bachelor's Degree?
Our goal at the University of Wyoming is to help our political science students better understand political processes while developing their critical thinking and analytic skills. We want to give our students the necessary tools for effective participation in governmental processes, successful careers in public and private sectors and further study in law, political science and public administration.
- Policy analyst
- Legislative assistant
- Public relations specialist
- Campaign staffer or political organizer
- Lobbyist
- Paralegal or legal assistant
- Intelligence analyst
- Nonprofit program coordinator
- Government affairs specialist
- Urban or regional planner
- Journalist or political correspondent
- International relations specialist
- Research assistant in public policy or academia
- Community outreach or advocacy coordinator
- And more!
Here are just a few places where University of Wyoming political science alumni are making their mark in the world:
- ACLU
- BMW Group
- Political campaigns
- State of Wyoming Legislature
- TRIO, Upward Bound Program
- United States House of Representatives
- United States Senate
- U.S. Foreign Service
- Wyoming Governor's Office
- Wall Street
- Nonprofits
- Wyoming Department of Education
- Cambridge University
- University of Chicago
- University of Chicago Law School
- John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University
- UC-Berkeley Law School
- London School of Economics & Political Science
- Korbel School/University of Denver
- Georgetown University
- Georgetown University Law School
Whether a B.A. or B.S. in political science is “better” depends on your interests and career goals:
- A B.A. in Political Science is typically broader and more flexible, with a stronger emphasis on humanities, writing and critical thinking. It’s a great fit if you’re interested in law, public service, international relations or graduate programs in political theory or public policy.
- A B.S. in Political Science usually involves more coursework in statistics, research
methods and quantitative analysis. It’s a strong choice if you’re interested in data-driven
roles, policy analysis, political consulting or careers that intersect with economics
or public health.
Both degrees can lead to similar job opportunities, so choose the one that aligns with your strengths and future plans.
Studying Politics, Changing the World
Thao Nguyen wants to help save the world—and she’s doing it through politics. As a political science major at the University of Wyoming, Thao has taken full advantage of UW’s study abroad opportunities to turn her global dreams into reality. Hear how the School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies is helping her make an international impact.
